Physicist Salary in Norfolk, Virginia
The median physicist salary in Norfolk, VA is $146,333 per year, which is 4% below the national median and 7.7% below the Virginia state average.
Physicist Pay in Norfolk: What to Expect (2026)
Norfolk offers a median physicist salary of $146,333, which is $12,194 below the Virginia state average of $158,527. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Norfolk pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Norfolk's cost of living is 96% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for physicists in Norfolk spans from $74,880 at the 10th percentile to $228,480 at the 90th percentile — a $153,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $78,720, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $211,200. With a population of 238,005, Norfolk is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Norfolk by Experience
In Norfolk, an entry-level physicist earns around $78,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $211,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 96% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Norfolk, VA
| Percentile | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $103,680 |
| Median (50th) | $146,333 |
| 75th Percentile | $187,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $228,480 |
Physicist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Norfolk
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Norfolk and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Norfolk may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Norfolk
Browse open physicist positions in Norfolk, VA: