What is the median salary for Physicists in Richmond, Virginia?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Physicists in the Richmond metropolitan area is $218,290.

Does Richmond pay more than the Virginia state average for Physicists?

The Richmond metro median is +50.5% versus the Virginia state median of $145,040.

How does Richmond compare to the national median for Physicists?

The Richmond metro median is +31.5% versus the BLS national figure of $166,057.

What is the salary range for Physicists in Richmond?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $116,850 and the 90th-percentile at $266,770 for the Richmond 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.

Physicists Salary in Richmond, Virginia: $218k Median ($117k–$267k Range)

Median annual$218,290

Mean annual$202,250

Range (10th to 90th)$116,850 to $266,770

Richmond, Virginia employment40

State vs national+31.5% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Richmond physicists fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

The middle 50% of workers earn between $164,480 and $246,960, with a median of $218,290.

Typical entry

Education
Doctoral or professional degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Physics
Knowledge
4.9 / 5
Mathematics
Knowledge
4.8 / 5
Mathematical Reasoning
Ability
4.8 / 5
Science
Basic skill
4.6 / 5
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge
4.5 / 5
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
4.4 / 5
Mathematics
Basic skill
4.3 / 5
Reading Comprehension
Basic skill
4.3 / 5

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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Other metros in Virginia

How the Richmond metro compares to other major Virginia metro areas for physicists.

Virginia Beach$110,930

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Physicists in Richmond, Virginia?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Physicists in the Richmond metropolitan area is $218,290.
Does Richmond pay more than the Virginia state average for Physicists?: The Richmond metro median is +50.5% versus the Virginia state median of $145,040.
How does Richmond compare to the national median for Physicists?: The Richmond metro median is +31.5% versus the BLS national figure of $166,057.
What is the salary range for Physicists in Richmond?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $116,850 and the 90th-percentile at $266,770 for the Richmond 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.

Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Richmond 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.