Science & Research Tacoma, WA
Pop. 219,346
Physicist Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median physicist salary in Tacoma, WA is $167,673 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
City Median
$167,673
vs State Avg
$-7,622
vs National
+$15,243
Cost of Living
110%
Physicist Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level physicist earns around $90,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $242,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$90,200
+$8,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$170,500
+$15,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$242,000
+$22,000 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $85,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $118,800 |
| Median (50th) | $167,673 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $261,800 |
Physicist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Tacoma
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington 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 Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.