Physicist Salary in Vancouver, Washington
The median physicist salary in Vancouver, WA is $155,479 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 11.3% below the Washington state average.
Physicist Pay in Vancouver: What to Expect (2026)
Vancouver offers a median physicist salary of $155,479, which is $19,816 below the Washington state average of $175,295. Compared to the national median of $152,430, Vancouver pays above average for this role.
Vancouver's cost of living is 102% 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 Vancouver spans from $79,560 at the 10th percentile to $242,760 at the 90th percentile — a $163,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $83,640, while senior physicists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $224,400. With a population of 190,915, Vancouver is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Physicist Salary in Vancouver by Experience
In Vancouver, an entry-level physicist earns around $83,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $224,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Vancouver, WA
| Percentile | Vancouver |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,160 |
| Median (50th) | $155,479 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $242,760 |
Physicist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Vancouver
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Vancouver and the surrounding Washington 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 Vancouver may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Physicist Jobs in Vancouver
Browse open physicist positions in Vancouver, WA: