How much does a Research Analyst make?
Research Analysts gather and analyze data to help businesses and organizations make better decisions. The average yearly salary for a Research Analyst stands at approximately $79,907. This is a strong figure considering the variety of industries one can work in, from healthcare to finance.
Looking at the breakdown of salaries, the majority of Research Analysts earn between $53,318 and $106,591 per year. This wide range reflects the diverse opportunities available. Factors such as experience, industry, and location can influence earnings. For those with more experience or in higher-paying industries, salaries can reach up to $186,500 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Analyst?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $112,224
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for professionals. With tech giants like Google and Salesforce, analysts have ample opportunities. Networking events and tech meetups make collaboration a breeze.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $111,626
Denver is known for its growing job market. Companies like IBM and Charles Schwab value skilled analysts. The city's outdoor culture provides a great work-life balance.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $100,386
Minneapolis is home to major corporations like 3M and Target. Analysts can expect a strong community and plenty of professional development. The city's mild summers make commuting easy.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $99,081
Boston offers a rich history and a vibrant job market. Companies like Fidelity and State Street need strong analysts. The city's education sector creates diverse opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $94,038
LA provides a diverse market with companies like Netflix and Amazon. Analysts can expect a busy but rewarding environment. The city's entertainment scene offers many social opportunities.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $92,379
Hartford is a hub for insurance companies like Aetna and Travelers. Analysts here enjoy a stable job market. The city's historic charm adds to the quality of life.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $91,111
Seattle offers a tech-driven economy with giants like Microsoft and Amazon. Analysts can expect innovation and growth. The city's natural beauty makes it a great place to live.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $83,727
San Diego boasts a thriving job market with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms. Analysts can enjoy a mild climate and beautiful beaches, making it a desirable place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $83,092
DC offers a political and economic center with firms like Fannie Mae and Leidos. Analysts often engage in impactful work. The city's rich history and culture provide many leisure activities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $82,820
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley with companies like Intel and Cisco. Analysts can expect cutting-edge projects. The city's diverse culture makes it vibrant and exciting.
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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: $189,411
The Institute for Defense Analyses offers Research Analyst jobs with a focus on national security. The company operates in Alexandria, Virginia, and Princeton, New Jersey. Analysts here work on complex defense projects, requiring strong analytical skills.
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Google
Average Salary: $158,065
Google provides exciting Research Analyst roles that cover a variety of sectors including technology and market research. With offices in cities like Mountain View, California, and New York, New York, analysts at Google drive decision-making through data-driven insights.
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Rockefeller Capital Management
Average Salary: $127,292
Rockefeller Capital Management has Research Analyst positions that focus on financial and investment analysis. The company is based in Washington, D.C., and analysts here support clients by providing detailed market and financial research.
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Booz Allen Hamilton
Average Salary: $118,209
Booz Allen Hamilton offers Research Analyst jobs that involve complex problem-solving and research. The company has locations in McLean, Virginia, and St. Louis, Missouri. Analysts here work on projects that affect national security and technology.
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Leidos
Average Salary: $117,941
Leidos provides Research Analyst positions that focus on defense, intelligence, and technology. Operating in Reston, Virginia, analysts here contribute to national security by analyzing data and providing strategic insights.
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University of California Los Angeles
Average Salary: $113,597
UCLA offers Research Analyst roles with a focus on academic and scientific research. Located in Los Angeles, California, analysts here support faculty and students by conducting research and analyzing data.
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University of California - San Francisco
Average Salary: $96,850
UCSF provides Research Analyst positions that involve health and medical research. Based in San Francisco, California, analysts here contribute to advancements in healthcare by conducting detailed research.
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State of Connecticut
Average Salary: $92,898
The State of Connecticut offers Research Analyst jobs that focus on public policy and economic analysis. The company operates in Hartford, Connecticut, and analysts here support decision-making by providing research and data analysis.
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S&P Global
Average Salary: $92,825
S&P Global provides Research Analyst roles that focus on market and financial analysis. With offices in New York, New York, and other locations, analysts here provide insights on the financial markets and economic trends.
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Stanford University
Average Salary: $92,343
Stanford University offers Research Analyst positions that support academic research. Located in Stanford, California, analysts here conduct research in various fields such as engineering, social sciences, and humanities.
How to earn more as a Research Analyst?
To earn more as a Research Analyst, focus on enhancing your skills and expanding your experience. Specialization in a specific industry or methodology can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Continuous learning through courses and certifications can also boost your market value. Building a strong professional network helps in discovering lucrative job openings and getting referrals.
Experience plays a crucial role in earning potential. Moving up from entry-level positions to more senior roles can significantly increase salary. Seeking out leadership opportunities and taking on more responsibilities can demonstrate your capability to earn a higher wage. Additionally, staying updated with the latest tools and technologies used in research analysis can make you more valuable to employers. Each of these factors contributes to building a strong foundation for higher earnings.
Other key factors to consider include:
- Pursue advanced degrees or certifications.
- Work for top-tier companies or research firms.
- Develop a strong portfolio of projects.
- Enhance your communication and presentation skills.
- Seek out mentorship and professional development opportunities.



