2024 wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Physicists is a high-paying occupation in Chicago, IL-IN-WI, with a median annual salary of $131,260. Physicistss in Chicago, IL-IN-WI earn $35,030 less (21%) than the national median of $166,290. Experienced Physicistss can expect to roughly double their starting salary over their career.
Physicistss in Chicago, IL-IN-WI earn $35,030 less (21%) than the national median of $166,290.
About 1,580 Physicistss work in Chicago, IL-IN-WI, indicating a healthy local job market.
Cost of Living Consideration
Although Chicago, IL-IN-WI pays below the national average, the cost of living may also be lower. Your purchasing power could be comparable to higher-salary cities. Check local housing costs before deciding.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,410 | $6,534 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,590 | $6,549 |
| Median | $131,260 | $10,938 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,280 | $13,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $207,880 | $17,323 |
| Mean (Average) | $129,980 | $10,832 |
| Metro Area | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN | $226,750 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, FL | $219,070 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | $215,340 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $214,520 |
| Richmond, VA | $212,950 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | $212,050 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | $211,600 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ | $206,070 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $202,610 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | $188,400 |
| Occupation | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $182,830 |
| Lawyers | $166,090 |
| Financial Managers | $164,470 |
| Natural Sciences Managers | $161,340 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $159,110 |
| Marketing Managers | $158,800 |
| Computer Network Architects | $140,760 |
| Human Resources Managers | $137,760 |
| Managers, All Other | $137,040 |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $135,120 |
Estimate your after-tax income. Compare your real purchasing power across different states and salary levels.
Annual Take-Home
$100,178
Monthly
$8,348
Bi-Weekly
$3,853
Effective Tax Rate
23.7%
* Estimate only. Does not include local taxes, deductions, or credits. Need help with your finances? Consider consulting a certified financial planner or exploring high-yield savings accounts to maximize your take-home pay.
Data verified March 2026 · Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Considering a move for this role? Compare cost of living in Chicago, IL-IN-WIto make an informed decision. Don't forget to factor in moving costs, renters insurance, and state income tax differences when evaluating your total compensation package.