How much does a Research Assistant make?
Research Assistants play a key role in many scientific and academic fields. They help gather and analyze data, often working under the supervision of more experienced researchers. The average yearly salary for a Research Assistant is around $46,628. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Here are some salary ranges for Research Assistants:
- The lowest 10% earn about $26,000 per year.
- The next 20% earn between $30,909 and $35,818 per year.
- The middle 20% earn between $35,818 and $40,727 per year.
- The next 20% earn between $40,727 and $45,636 per year.
- The highest 10% earn over $70,182 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Assistant?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $76,617
In San Francisco, you'll find many tech companies hiring research assistants. These roles offer a chance to work on cutting-edge projects. Companies like Google and Salesforce often seek skilled assistants.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $64,760
Atlanta offers a mix of industries for research assistants. You can work in healthcare, finance, or tech. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines provide diverse opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $58,513
Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and media. Research assistants here often work on film, TV, or music projects. Major studios like Warner Bros. and Disney are prominent employers.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $57,124
Madison is known for its research institutions. Assistants here often work on academic projects. The University of Wisconsin and local tech firms are key employers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $55,345
Seattle offers a tech-driven environment. Research assistants often work for tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's focus on innovation provides a dynamic work setting.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $55,096
Charlotte is a financial hub. Research assistants here often work in banking and finance. Companies like Bank of America and Wells Fargo offer many opportunities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $55,062
Houston is known for its energy sector. Research assistants often work on projects related to oil and gas. Companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron provide diverse roles.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $54,923
Albany offers a mix of government and academic roles. Research assistants often work on policy or educational projects. The state government and local universities are key employers.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $54,687
Boston is rich in academic and medical research. Assistants often work in universities or hospitals. Harvard and MIT are prominent employers.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $54,135
Las Vegas offers a unique mix of entertainment and research. Assistants often work in hospitality or gaming research. Companies like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment provide diverse opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Research Assistant can work for?

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Stanford University
Average Salary: $74,308
Stanford University offers Research Assistant positions in various departments. The university is located in Stanford, California. Research Assistants here work on cutting-edge projects and have access to state-of-the-art facilities.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $64,194
UCLA Health provides Research Assistant roles in multiple locations, including Los Angeles, California. Employees work on innovative research projects and benefit from a collaborative environment.
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IQVIA
Average Salary: $60,806
IQVIA offers Research Assistant jobs in various cities across the United States. The company focuses on healthcare information technology and has a strong reputation for research excellence.
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UC San Diego Health
Average Salary: $59,011
UC San Diego Health provides Research Assistant positions in San Diego, California. The company is known for its commitment to medical research and innovation.
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Columbia University
Average Salary: $57,252
Columbia University offers Research Assistant roles in New York City. The university is renowned for its academic excellence and research opportunities.
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New York University
Average Salary: $56,920
New York University provides Research Assistant positions in New York City. The university offers a vibrant research environment and numerous opportunities for professional growth.
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Research Foundation CUNY
Average Salary: $56,126
The Research Foundation CUNY offers Research Assistant jobs in various locations in New York City. The foundation is dedicated to supporting research and academic excellence.
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University of Connecticut
Average Salary: $56,004
The University of Connecticut offers Research Assistant positions in Storrs, Connecticut. The university provides a supportive environment for research and academic development.
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University of Kansas Medical Center
Average Salary: $55,441
The University of Kansas Medical Center offers Research Assistant roles in Kansas City, Kansas. The center is known for its focus on medical research and healthcare innovation.
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University of Colorado
Average Salary: $54,969
The University of Colorado offers Research Assistant positions in Aurora, Colorado. The university provides a dynamic research environment and numerous opportunities for professional growth.
How to earn more as a Research Assistant?
A Research Assistant can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can enhance their value and potentially earn more. Building strong skills and gaining experience are crucial steps. Networking with professionals in the field can open up higher-paying opportunities. Seeking out roles with more responsibility can also lead to higher pay.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Research Assistant:
- Skill Development: Invest time in learning new skills. This includes mastering data analysis software, statistical methods, and research methodologies. These skills make a Research Assistant more valuable.
- Experience: Gain experience by taking on diverse projects. Working on different types of research can broaden your expertise. This makes you more attractive to employers willing to pay more.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals in your field. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and participate in online forums. Networking can lead to job opportunities that offer higher pay.
- Certifications: Obtain certifications in relevant areas. Certifications in data analysis, research ethics, or specialized software can boost your qualifications. They often lead to higher-paying positions.
- Seeking Advanced Roles: Look for roles that offer more responsibility. Positions such as Senior Research Assistant or Project Coordinator often come with higher pay. These roles involve leading projects and mentoring others.



