As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for an University Professor - Physics in the United States is $120,760 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $58.
However, an University Professor - Physics's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An University Professor - Physics's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an University Professor - Physics's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| College Instructor - Physics | 0-0 years | $59,723 |
| College Assistant Professor - Physics | 0-0 years | $77,204 |
| College Associate Professor - Physics | 0-0 years | $92,976 |
| University Professor - Physics | 0-0 years | $120,752 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract University Professor - Physics. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Leadership | 9.87% |
| Computer Science | 2.69% |
| Physical Sciences | 1.79% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Patient Care
|
$154,573 |
28%
|
|
Active Learning
|
$154,573 |
28%
|
|
Communication Skills
|
$141,289 |
17%
|
|
Leadership
|
$138,874 |
15%
|
|
Coordination
|
$135,251 |
12%
|
|
Work Ethic
|
$134,044 |
11%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many University Professor - Physics enter the field with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an University Professor - Physics with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent is between $111,978 and $142,828).
University Professor - Physics Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 7.7% |
| High School | 7.7% |
| Associates | 84.6% |
| Bachelors | 7.7% |
| Masters | 7.7% |
| Doctorate | 84.6% |
Understanding how an University Professor - Physics's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on March 01, 2026Salaries for an University Professor - Physics can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $55,867 in 2023 to around $53,962 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of University Professor - Physics salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $55,867 |
| 2024 | $55,153 |
| 2025 | $53,962 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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University professors in physics can expect salaries ranging from a minimum of $89,530 to a maximum of $194,100, with a mid-salary of $119,900. This indicates a competitive pay scale, reflecting the value placed on higher education and specialized knowledge in the field. Overall, university professors are generally well-compensated.
Physics professors are indeed in high demand, driven by a shift in science standards and the implementation of Next Generation Science Standards, which has intensified the shortage of qualified instructors. With salaries ranging from $89,530 to $194,100, the profession offers competitive compensation, attracting more individuals to this essential field.
A PhD professor in the USA typically earns between $89,530 and $194,100 annually, with a median salary of $119,900. This translates to a monthly pay range of approximately $7,460 to $16,175, depending on experience and position.
While many high-paying PhD degrees are in engineering and computer science, a PhD in Physics also offers competitive salaries. University professors in this field earn between $89,530 and $194,100, with a median salary of $119,900. Other lucrative fields include economics, nursing, and medical-related disciplines, reflecting diverse opportunities for advanced degrees.
Harvard University professors in Massachusetts earn between $89,530 and $194,100 annually, with a median salary of $119,900. This places their average pay around $116,227, which is 16% above the national average for university professors.
MIT professors in Physics earn between $89,530 and $194,100 annually, with a median salary of $119,900. This reflects a competitive compensation structure, aligning with the high standards of the institution and the expertise required in the field.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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