Salary distribution
Where Detroit physicists fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $108,070 and $202,560, with a median of $188,400.
Typical entry
Education
Doctoral or professional degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None
Top skills (O*NET)
- 4.9 / 5
Physics
Knowledge
- 4.8 / 5
Mathematics
Knowledge
- 4.8 / 5
Mathematical Reasoning
Ability
- 4.6 / 5
Science
Basic skill
- 4.5 / 5
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge
- 4.4 / 5
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
- 4.3 / 5
Mathematics
Basic skill
- 4.3 / 5
Reading Comprehension
Basic skill
Common tasks (O*NET)
- 01
Perform complex calculations as part of the analysis and evaluation of data, using computers.
- 02
Analyze data from research conducted to detect and measure physical phenomena.
- 03
Describe and express observations and conclusions in mathematical terms.
- 04
Design computer simulations to model physical data so that it can be better understood.
- 05
Write research proposals to receive funding.
- 06
Teach physics to students.
- 07
Report experimental results by writing papers for scientific journals or by presenting information at scientific conferences.
- 08
Conduct research pertaining to potential environmental impacts of atomic energy-related industrial development to determine licensing qualifications.
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Explore coursesFrequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Physicists in Detroit, Michigan?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Physicists in the Detroit metropolitan area is $188,400.
- Does Detroit pay more than the Michigan state average for Physicists?
- The Detroit metro median is +75.0% versus the Michigan state median of $107,640.
- How does Detroit compare to the national median for Physicists?
- The Detroit metro median is +16.4% versus the BLS national figure of $161,819.
- What is the salary range for Physicists in Detroit?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $67,850 and the 90th-percentile at $218,840 for the Detroit metro area.
- What education is required for Physicists?
- BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Doctoral or professional degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Detroit CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.