Physicist Salary in Wisconsin
The median physicist salary in Wisconsin is $140,236 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #31 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. Physicist salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $140,236 per year, physicists in Wisconsin earn $12,194 less than the national median of $152,430.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $140,236 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $152,430 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $71,760, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $218,960 — a $147,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $152,430.
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for physicists across the country.
Physicist Salary in Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level physicist earns around $75,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $202,400 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $140,236+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin
| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $71,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,360 |
| Median (50th) | $140,236 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $218,960 |
Physicist Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for physicists in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physicist in Wisconsin
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Wisconsin's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physicists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $62,164 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Physicist Roles in Wisconsin?
Get matched with recruiters hiring physicists in Wisconsin at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: