How much does a Research Analyst make?
Research Analysts play a key role in many businesses. They gather and analyze data to help companies make smart decisions. This job is in demand and offers a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Research Analyst is around $80,332.
This salary can change based on experience and location. Many new Research Analysts can expect to make less. As they gain experience, their salary can grow. Experienced Research Analysts often make more than the average. Those in the top 10% can earn over $174,564 per year. These high salaries reflect the value companies place on data-driven insights.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Analyst?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $114,033
In San Francisco, analysts thrive in a tech-heavy environment, analyzing data to support companies like Google and Salesforce. The city’s innovative spirit and competitive salary of $114,033 foster a dynamic job market.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $107,253
Denver offers a balanced mix of outdoor lifestyle and urban job opportunities. As an analyst, you can work for companies such as Lockheed Martin. The average salary is $107,253, providing a comfortable living.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $101,111
Boston’s rich history and educational institutions create a fertile ground for research analysts. With an average salary of $101,111, you can enjoy working for prominent firms like Fidelity Investments.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $100,386
Minneapolis is known for its friendly locals and thriving industries. Analysts here earn around $100,386. Working for companies like Target can be fulfilling and stable.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $95,209
Los Angeles provides a unique blend of entertainment and business. With an average salary of $95,209, analysts can enjoy a vibrant lifestyle while working for companies like Warner Bros.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $93,765
Hartford offers a blend of urban and suburban life. The city is home to companies like Aetna, where analysts earn around $93,765. It’s a place where you can grow both personally and professionally.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $91,561
Seattle’s tech scene is booming, making it a great place for analysts. Working for firms like Amazon, you can expect an average salary of $91,561. The city’s innovative culture is contagious.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $87,774
San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley. The tech industry drives a high demand for analysts, with an average salary of $87,774. Working for companies like eBay can be both exciting and rewarding.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $86,726
San Diego offers beautiful weather and a strong job market for analysts. With an average salary of $86,726, you can enjoy working for firms like Qualcomm in a laid-back environment.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $83,999
Atlanta is a growing city with a mix of industries. Analysts here earn around $83,999. Working for companies like Coca-Cola can offer a blend of stability and opportunity for growth.
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What are the best companies a Research Analyst can work for?

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Institute for Defense Analyses
Average Salary: $191,606
At the Institute for Defense Analyses, Research Analysts play a key role in providing research and analysis for national security issues. This organization operates from its main location in Alexandria, Virginia, with additional offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and McLean, Virginia.
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Google
Average Salary: $158,065
Research Analysts at Google help to improve products and services by gathering and analyzing data. Google's headquarters is in Mountain View, California, and it has offices worldwide, including in New York, London, and Tokyo.
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Rockefeller Capital Management
Average Salary: $129,231
Research Analysts at Rockefeller Capital Management provide insights and analysis to support investment strategies. This company operates from its main office in New York City and has a strong presence in the financial sector.
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Leidos
Average Salary: $112,694
At Leidos, Research Analysts work on projects that support the nation’s defense and health needs. The company is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, and maintains a robust network of offices across the United States.
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University of California Los Angeles
Average Salary: $108,134
Research Analysts at UCLA contribute to academic research and projects that impact various fields. UCLA is located in Los Angeles, California, and offers a diverse range of research opportunities.
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University of California - San Francisco
Average Salary: $96,534
At UCSF, Research Analysts focus on healthcare and biomedical research. This institution is based in San Francisco, California, and is renowned for its cutting-edge research in the medical field.
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Stanford University
Average Salary: $95,961
Research Analysts at Stanford University engage in a variety of research projects across multiple disciplines. The university is located in Stanford, California, and is a global leader in education and research.
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S&P Global
Average Salary: $94,169
At S&P Global, Research Analysts provide insights and analysis on markets and economies. The company is headquartered in New York City and has offices in major financial centers around the world.
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Rutgers University
Average Salary: $87,983
Research Analysts at Rutgers University contribute to research projects in various academic fields. The university is located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and has campuses across the state.
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State of Alaska
Average Salary: $75,933
Research Analysts for the State of Alaska support decision-making through data analysis and research. The state government is based in Juneau, Alaska, and offers unique opportunities to work on regional issues.
How to earn more as a Research Analyst?
Research Analysts can increase their earnings by focusing on specific areas of growth and expertise. By understanding the right factors, they can position themselves for higher-paying opportunities. Building a robust network, gaining new skills, and advancing in one's career are some key strategies. These steps can help Research Analysts not only stay competitive but also excel in their roles.
Here are essential factors to consider for earning more as a Research Analyst:
- Specialization: Focus on a niche area can make a Research Analyst more valuable. Whether it is finance, healthcare, or technology, specialization allows one to command higher pay.
- Advanced Education: Pursuing advanced degrees or certifications can boost earning potential. Consider an MBA or a specialized certification relevant to the industry.
- Professional Experience: Gaining experience in different roles and industries enriches a candidate's resume. More diverse experience often leads to higher salary offers.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities and salary negotiations. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with peers on platforms like LinkedIn.
- Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest tools and techniques can enhance a Research Analyst's effectiveness. Online courses and workshops can provide new skills and insights.



