Science & Research Chesapeake, VA
Pop. 249,422
Physicist Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median physicist salary in Chesapeake, VA is $149,381 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 5.8% below the Virginia state average.
City Median
$149,381
vs State Avg
$-9,146
vs National
$-3,049
Cost of Living
98%
Physicist Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, an entry-level physicist earns around $80,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $215,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$80,360
$-1,640 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$151,900
$-3,100 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$215,600
$-4,400 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,840 |
| Median (50th) | $149,381 |
| 75th Percentile | $191,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $233,240 |
Physicist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Chesapeake
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment
Job Outlook
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.