How much does a Research Analyst make?
Research Analysts gather and analyze data to help businesses and organizations make informed decisions. They work in a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology. The average yearly salary for a Research Analyst is around $81,231. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
The salary range for Research Analysts can be quite broad. The lowest-paid 10% earn about $38,988 per year. The highest-paid 10% earn over $188,000 annually. Most Research Analysts fall somewhere in the middle of this range. For example, those in the 25th percentile earn about $52,546, while those in the 75th percentile earn around $133,896. This shows that there are many opportunities for growth and higher earnings as a Research Analyst gains more experience and expertise.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Analyst?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $114,263
In San Francisco, you can find many tech giants where you can analyze data to help shape the future. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. The city's vibrant culture makes it a great place to work and live.
Find Research Analyst jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $108,484
Denver offers a mix of outdoor adventure and professional growth. Working for companies like Charles Schwab, you can use your skills to drive business decisions. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it easy to balance work and leisure.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Denver, CO
-
Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $94,915
Hartford is home to insurance companies like Aetna and Travelers. Here, you can analyze data to improve policies and services. The city's rich history and community spirit add to the work experience.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Hartford, CT
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $94,255
Boston is a hub of education and research. Working for firms like Fidelity Investments, you can contribute to groundbreaking projects. The city's academic environment fosters continuous learning and growth.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Boston, MA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $89,945
Seattle offers a unique blend of tech and nature. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide dynamic environments for data analysis. The city's progressive culture makes it an exciting place to work.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $89,379
Los Angeles is a center for entertainment and media. Working for companies like Warner Bros., you can analyze data to enhance content creation. The city's diverse culture offers a rich backdrop for professional development.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $89,329
Omaha is known for its strong financial sector. Working for Berkshire Hathaway, you can analyze data to support investment decisions. The city's welcoming community makes it a great place to build a career.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Omaha, NE
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $88,097
Minneapolis offers a mix of business and nature. Companies like Target provide opportunities to analyze data for retail insights. The city's vibrant arts scene adds to the quality of life.
Find Research Analyst jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $83,877
San Diego combines beautiful weather with a strong biotech sector. Working for companies like Illumina, you can analyze data to advance healthcare. The city's coastal lifestyle makes it an attractive place to live and work.
Find Research Analyst jobs in San Diego, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $82,727
San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley. Working for tech companies like Cisco, you can analyze data to drive innovation. The city's fast-paced environment offers many opportunities for growth.
Find Research Analyst jobs in San Jose, CA
What are the best companies a Research Analyst can work for?

-
Institute for Defense Analyses
Average Salary: $186,029
The Institute for Defense Analyses offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on defense and security. They work in Alexandria, Virginia, and other locations. Analysts here conduct in-depth research and analysis to support national security efforts.
-
Google
Average Salary: $158,250
Google provides Research Analyst positions with a focus on data analysis and market research. They operate in many locations, including Mountain View, California. Analysts at Google work on projects that help improve products and services.
-
Booz Allen Hamilton
Average Salary: $128,338
Booz Allen Hamilton offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on consulting and analysis. They work in McLean, Virginia, and other locations. Analysts here support clients with research and strategic insights.
-
HII
Average Salary: $122,566
HII provides Research Analyst jobs with a focus on defense and aerospace technology. They operate in Newport News, Virginia, and other locations. Analysts at HII conduct research to support national defense projects.
-
University of California Los Angeles
Average Salary: $112,997
UCLA offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on academic research. They operate in Los Angeles, California. Analysts here support faculty with data analysis and research projects.
-
UC Davis
Average Salary: $102,169
UC Davis provides Research Analyst jobs with a focus on agricultural and environmental research. They operate in Davis, California. Analysts here conduct research to support sustainable practices.
-
State of Washington
Average Salary: $100,558
The State of Washington offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on public policy and data analysis. They operate in Olympia, Washington, and other locations. Analysts here support government initiatives with research and analysis.
-
University of California - San Francisco
Average Salary: $99,451
UCSF offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on medical and health research. They operate in San Francisco, California. Analysts here support medical research and clinical studies.
-
UC San Diego Health
Average Salary: $96,518
UC San Diego Health provides Research Analyst jobs with a focus on healthcare research. They operate in San Diego, California. Analysts here support medical research and patient care initiatives.
-
Stanford University
Average Salary: $96,421
Stanford University offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on academic and scientific research. They operate in Stanford, California. Analysts here support faculty with data analysis and research projects.
How to earn more as a Research Analyst?
A Research Analyst can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining experience in specialized fields can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, analysts with expertise in finance or healthcare often command higher salaries. Second, obtaining advanced certifications can enhance skills and marketability. Certifications such as CFA or FRM can open doors to better-paying roles. Third, developing strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis tools can make an analyst more valuable. Fourth, networking within the industry can lead to job opportunities that offer higher compensation. Finally, seeking roles in larger companies or those with a strong financial performance can result in better pay packages.
To maximize earnings, a Research Analyst should consider the following factors:
- Specialized expertise in high-demand fields
- Advanced certifications and qualifications
- Strong analytical and data analysis skills
- Effective networking within the industry
- Targeting roles in larger or financially strong companies