Physicist Salary in California (2026)
California · 42.0% above national average · High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $324,164 | +55.0% | High |
| San Diego | $309,524 | +48.0% | High |
| San Jose | $359,717 | +72.0% | High |
| San Francisco | $386,905 | +85.0% | High |
| Fresno | $225,869 | +8.0% | High |
| Sacramento | $255,148 | +22.0% | High |
| Long Beach | $303,250 | +45.0% | High |
| Bakersfield | $225,869 | +8.0% | High |
| Anaheim | $296,976 | +42.0% | High |
| Santa Ana | $292,793 | +40.0% | High |
| Riverside | $267,697 | +28.0% | High |
| Stockton | $246,783 | +18.0% | High |
| Irvine | $324,164 | +55.0% | High |
| San Bernardino | $246,783 | +18.0% | High |
| Modesto | $234,235 | +12.0% | High |
| Fontana | $255,148 | +22.0% | High |
| Moreno Valley | $240,509 | +15.0% | High |
| Glendale | $309,524 | +48.0% | High |
| Fremont | $334,621 | +60.0% | High |
California is home to a very strong job market for Physicists. The state's key industries — Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $209,138 per year, California's Physicist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in California (index: 1.42) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in California can expect to earn $116,625–$161,213, while experienced Physicists can command $261,536–$302,145.
Looking ahead, the Physicist profession in California is projected to grow at 3.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Technology continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Physicist salary in California?The average Physicist salary in California is $209,138 per year in 2026, which is 42.0% above the national average of $147,280.
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What city in California pays Physicists the most?San Francisco and San Jose typically pay Physicists the highest wages in California due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is California a good state for Physicists?California has a very strong job market with major industries in Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture. This makes it one of the better states for Physicist employment.
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How does California Physicist salary compare to the US average?At $209,138/year, California Physicist salaries are 42.0% higher than the national average of $147,280/year.