Physicists Salary in California
In California, physicists earn a median of $180,900 per year.
Median (California)
$180,900
Bottom 10%
$103,800
Top 10%
$239,200+
Employed in California
6,220
How California compares
Refit analysis ·In California, physicists earn a median of $180,900 — 9% above the national median of $166,290. Locally the range runs $103,800 to $239,200+. About 6,220 people hold this role in the state.
Refit analysis ·California ranks #6 of 40 states for physicists pay — roughly the 87th percentile among states. That trails the top-paying state (Minnesota, $222,550) by 23%. State employment of about 6,220 also shapes how competitive local openings are.
National benchmark
US median
$166,290
US bottom 10%
$80,020
US top 10%
$239,200+
Skills that move pay in this role
- Science
- Reading Comprehension
- Mathematics
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Active Learning
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