Physicist Salary in Richmond, Virginia
The median physicist salary in Richmond, VA is $152,430 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 3.8% below the Virginia state average.
Physicist Pay in Richmond: What to Expect (2026)
Richmond offers a median physicist salary of $152,430, which is $6,097 below the Virginia state average of $158,527. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Richmond pays above average for this role.
Richmond's cost of living is 100% 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 Richmond spans from $78,000 at the 10th percentile to $238,000 at the 90th percentile — a $160,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $82,000, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $220,000. With a population of 226,610, Richmond is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Richmond by Experience
In Richmond, an entry-level physicist earns around $82,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $220,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Richmond, VA
| Percentile | Richmond |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $108,000 |
| Median (50th) | $152,430 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $238,000 |
Physicist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Richmond
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Richmond 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 Richmond may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Richmond
Browse open physicist positions in Richmond, VA: