Research Scientist Salary in 2026
Research scientists conduct experiments and investigations in laboratories to advance scientific knowledge. They design studies, analyze data, publish findings, and pursue grant funding.
Median Salary
$99,000
$8,250/mo
Entry Level
$57,000
starting pay
Senior Level
$129,000
experienced
Job Growth
+8%
10-yr outlook
Research Scientist Overview
Research scientists conduct experiments and investigations in laboratories to advance scientific knowledge. They design studies, analyze data, publish findings, and pursue grant funding.
Education
Doctoral Degree (PhD)
Experience
2-5 years postdoc
Industry
Science
Total Jobs (US)
120K
5-Year Growth
+15%
Category
Science
Hourly Rate
$47.60/hr
Monthly Pay
$8,250
Local evidence pages
High-intent Research Scientist salary checks
These pages answer location-specific searches where a national median is not enough. Use them when the question is about an exact city posting, local credential path, or city-specific salary range.
Research Scientist Salary Calculator
Adjust your state and experience level to see the estimated Research Scientist salary in your area.
Mid Career (5-9 yrs)
Estimated Research Scientist Salary
$105,000
$8,750/month · $4,038/biweekly · $50.48/hr
Research Scientist Salary Range
Salary distribution from entry-level to top earners in the Research Scientist field.
Entry-level Research Scientists earn around $57,000, while the top 10% earn $149,500 or more.
Top Paying States for Research Scientists
| State | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| California | $117,000 | +$18,000 |
| New York | $114,000 | +$15,000 |
| Massachusetts | $111,000 | +$12,000 |
| Maryland | $107,000 | +$8,000 |
| North Carolina | $95,000 | $-4,000 |
Top Paying Cities for Research Scientists
| City | Est. Median Salary | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco | $124,000 | +$25,000 |
| Bethesda | $117,000 | +$18,000 |
| New York | $117,000 | +$18,000 |
| Boston | $111,000 | +$12,000 |
| Research Triangle | $101,000 | +$2,000 |
Required Skills & Certifications
Key Skills
Certifications
Research Scientist Career Progression
Typical salary growth path for a Research Scientist from entry level to expert.
$57,000
0-2 years
$93,000
3-7 years
$129,000
8-14 years
$170,000
15+ years
Related Science Jobs
Research Scientist Salary FAQ
How much does a Research Scientist make in 2026?
The median salary for a Research Scientist in the United States is $99,000 per year in 2026. Entry-level positions start around $57,000, while senior professionals earn up to $129,000. Top earners in the field can make $170,000 or more annually.
What education is needed to become a Research Scientist?
A Research Scientist typically requires a Doctoral Degree (PhD) with 2-5 years postdoc of experience. Key skills include Research Design, Data Analysis, Grant Writing. Relevant certifications such as PhD in Field or Postdoctoral Training can boost earning potential and career advancement.
What is the job outlook for Research Scientists?
The job market for Research Scientists is projected to grow by 8% over the next decade. There are currently approximately 120K Research Scientist positions in the US. Salary growth over the past 5 years has been approximately 15%, reflecting steady demand for this role.
Which states pay Research Scientists the most?
The highest-paying states for Research Scientists include California, Massachusetts, Maryland. In California, the median salary is approximately $117,000. However, cost of living varies significantly, so adjusted purchasing power should be considered when comparing salaries across states.
How can I increase my Research Scientist salary?
To increase your Research Scientist salary, focus on gaining expertise in high-demand skills like Research Design and Data Analysis. Pursue certifications such as PhD in Field. Consider relocating to higher-paying markets like San Francisco. With 2-5 years postdoc of experience, you can progress from $57,000 to $129,000 or more.
Methodology & Data Sources — Research Scientist Salary
How we calculate Research Scientist salary data: Our figures combine BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for the national salary baseline, adjusted by cost-of-living multipliers from the C2ER Cost of Living Index. State-level estimates use BLS regional wage survey data weighted by occupation employment counts. We calibrate entry/senior/top-level tiers against BLS percentile distributions (P10, P25, P75, P90) for this occupation.
- National median salary: $99,000 — sourced from BLS OEWS for SOC code corresponding to Research Scientist in the Science sector.
- Entry-level ($57,000) and senior-level ($129,000) figures reflect BLS P25 and P75 percentile wage estimates adjusted for experience.
- Job outlook: +8% projected growth through 2034, from BLS Employment Projections program. Approximately 120K total positions nationwide.
- 5-year salary growth: 15% over the past 5 years, derived from BLS Employment Cost Index for Science sector wages.
- Education requirement: Doctoral Degree (PhD), per BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook entry for this occupation.
- State-level estimates use BLS regional CPI-U data and OEWS metropolitan area wage surveys, normalized to the national median of $99,000.
Authoritative US data sources for Research Scientist compensation:
- BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) — national and metro-area salary data
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Research Scientist job projections, education, and career outlook
- BLS Employment Projections — 10-year occupation growth and decline data
- BLS Employment Cost Index — quarterly compensation trend data for Science
- BLS Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) — regional inflation for cost-of-living wage adjustments
- IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32 summary — 2026 federal tax brackets and standard deductions
Disclaimer: Research Scientist salary figures are statistical estimates for general guidance. Actual compensation depends on employer, location, negotiation, specific skills (Research Design, Data Analysis, Grant Writing), certifications, and industry conditions. Always verify with multiple sources including current job listings, recruiter data, and direct employer offers before making career decisions.
Reviewed by Brazora Monk · Last updated May 17, 2026 · BLS data current as of latest OEWS annual release
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