Condensed Matter Physicist Salary: Average Pay and Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physicists in 2021 was $127,000. The lowest 10% earned less than $60,750; the highest 10% earned more than $208,000.

Condensed‑matter physicists study physical properties of solids and liquids. They typically hold a Ph.D. and work in research labs or universities. Salaries vary by education, experience, and employer type—private sector roles generally pay more than academia.

Benefits often include health insurance, dental, and retirement plans.

Percentile	Salary
10th	Less than $60,750
25th	$85,090
50th (median)	$127,000
75th	$171,690
90th	More than $208,000