Physicist Salary in California
Based on 6K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$207,490
$99.75/hr
vs National Average
$153,763
+34.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$125K – $297K
6K employed in California
Physicist salary in California averages $207,490 annually, positioning the state as a premium market for physics professionals. This median salary stands approximately 35% above the national average, reflecting California's concentration of research institutions, tech companies, and advanced laboratories. The state currently employs about 5,930 physicists, with salaries ranging from $125,390 to $296,740 depending on experience and specialization.
Several factors influence physicist salary in California, including employer type, educational credentials, and years of experience. Research positions at universities and national laboratories typically differ from those in private industry, particularly in tech and aerospace sectors. Geographic location within the state, advanced degrees or certifications, and specialization in high-demand fields like quantum computing or renewable energy also play significant roles in determining individual compensation levels.
Salary Distribution — Physicist in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $125,390 |
| 25th percentile | $173,450 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $207,490 |
| 75th percentile | $222,760 |
| 90th percentile | $296,740 |
Top-Paying Industries for Physicist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Physicists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Physicists in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $239,360 | 3K |
| Wholesale Trade | $219,010 | — |
| Other Services (except Public Administration) | $213,780 | 50 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $210,530 | — |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $176,170 | 10K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Physicist in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $170,490 |
| 2023 | $178,700 |
| 2024 | $180,900 |
| 2025 | $207,490 |
| 2026 (projected) | $219,939 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $170,490 | $140,924 |
| 2023 | $178,700 | $142,089 |
| 2024 | $180,900 | $149,537 |
| 2025 | $207,490 | $153,763 |
| 2026 (projected) | $219,939 | $162,989 |
Physicist Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $173,450 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $207,490 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $222,760 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $296,740 |
Physicist Salary in Other States
Related Physicist Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Physicist ($207,490 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Physicist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biochemist and Biophysicist in CA | $139,580 | -32.7% | $67.11/hr |
| Medical Scientist in CA | $136,990 | -34.0% | $65.86/hr |
| Psychologist in CA | $116,000 | -44.1% | $55.77/hr |
| Urban and Regional Planner in CA | $109,610 | -47.2% | $52.70/hr |
| Environmental Scientist in CA | $106,510 | -48.7% | $51.21/hr |
| Geoscientist in CA | $106,500 | -48.7% | $51.20/hr |
| Chemist in CA | $97,860 | -52.8% | $47.05/hr |
| Engineering Manager in CA | $210,280 | +1.3% | $101.10/hr |
| Nurse Midwife in CA | $203,840 | -1.8% | $98.00/hr |
| Podiatrist in CA | $201,300 | -3.0% | $96.78/hr |
| Pediatrician in CA | $214,140 | +3.2% | $102.95/hr |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager in CA | $218,290 | +5.2% | $104.95/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do physicists make in California?
- The median salary for physicists in California is $207,490 per year, or approximately $100 per hour. This is significantly higher than the national average, representing a 34.9% premium for working in the state.
What is the salary range for physicists in California?
- Physicists in California earn between $125,390 and $296,740 per year, depending on experience, specialization, and employer. This wide range reflects the diversity of physics roles available throughout the state.
Is physics a well-paid career in California compared to the US average?
- Yes, physics is particularly well-compensated in California. The state's median physicist salary of $207,490 is 34.9% higher than the national average, making it one of the best-paying locations for this profession.
How many physicists are employed in California?
- California currently employs approximately 5,930 physicists, making it a significant hub for physics employment and research in the United States.