How much does a Research Manager make?
A Research Manager plays a key role in guiding a company's research efforts. They oversee projects, analyze data, and make important decisions. The average yearly salary for a Research Manager is around $111,231. This salary can vary based on experience and location. For example, those with more experience often earn higher salaries.
Research Managers can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience. The lowest 10% earn about $55,000 a year. The top 10% earn over $250,000 annually. Most Research Managers find jobs in industries like healthcare, technology, and market research. These industries often offer competitive salaries. A Research Manager's salary can also depend on the size of the company and the region where they work. Larger companies and certain regions may offer higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Manager?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $205,181
In San Francisco, leading tech companies offer exciting opportunities for those in research roles. The city's innovative environment provides a dynamic setting for research managers to thrive. Companies like Google and Salesforce value strong research skills.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $180,027
Seattle is home to major tech giants such as Amazon and Microsoft. Research managers here enjoy a collaborative atmosphere. The city's focus on technology makes it a great place for research professionals.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $129,504
Boston offers a rich mix of research opportunities in both tech and healthcare. Research managers here benefit from the city's strong academic institutions. Companies like Biogen and Charles River Laboratories are prominent employers.
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Ann Arbor, MI
Average Salary: $127,596
Ann Arbor is known for its educational institutions, providing a unique research environment. Research managers here often work with the University of Michigan. The city's focus on innovation makes it ideal for research careers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $120,407
Los Angeles offers diverse research opportunities in entertainment, technology, and healthcare. Research managers here can work with companies like Sony Pictures and UCLA. The city's vibrant culture adds to the professional experience.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $112,126
Denver provides a growing market for research professionals. The city's focus on technology and healthcare offers many opportunities. Research managers here can work with companies like Lockheed Martin and Denver Health.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $107,898
Pittsburgh is known for its research and development in healthcare and technology. Research managers here benefit from the city's strong academic institutions. Companies like UPMC and Carnegie Mellon University offer exciting opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $107,510
Washington, D.C., offers a unique blend of research opportunities in government and private sectors. Research managers here can work with organizations like the NIH and various tech startups. The city's political environment adds to the professional experience.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $102,046
Austin is a hub for tech innovation, offering many research opportunities. Research managers here can work with companies like Dell and Oracle. The city's vibrant culture and growing tech scene make it an attractive place for research professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $97,934
San Diego offers a mix of research opportunities in biotech, defense, and technology. Research managers here can work with companies like Qualcomm and Scripps Research. The city's beautiful setting and strong research community make it an ideal place for research careers.
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What are the best companies a Research Manager can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $283,302
Apple offers exciting Research Manager roles. They focus on innovation and technology. Apple operates globally, with major offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Thomson Reuters
Average Salary: $228,710
Thomson Reuters provides Research Manager positions in the legal and financial sectors. They have a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia.
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PwC
Average Salary: $182,150
PwC offers Research Manager roles in consulting and advisory services. They have offices in over 150 countries, providing global opportunities.
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G&W Electric Company
Average Salary: $128,914
G&W Electric Company provides Research Manager jobs in the electrical industry. They operate primarily in the U.S., with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
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Stanford University
Average Salary: $125,795
Stanford University offers Research Manager positions in academia. They focus on cutting-edge research and have a strong presence in California.
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The Geneva Foundation
Average Salary: $96,145
The Geneva Foundation provides Research Manager roles in the aerospace and defense sectors. They operate in Colorado, with a focus on research and development.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $92,564
NYU Langone Health offers Research Manager positions in healthcare. They have a strong presence in New York City and focus on medical research and patient care.
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Rutgers University
Average Salary: $89,556
Rutgers University provides Research Manager jobs in academia. They focus on research and education and have campuses across New Jersey.
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Washington University in St. Louis
Average Salary: $87,550
Washington University in St. Louis offers Research Manager positions in academia. They focus on research and education and have a strong presence in Missouri.
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Average Salary: $80,868
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides Research Manager roles in academia. They focus on research and education and have a strong presence in North Carolina.
How to earn more as a Research Manager?
A Research Manager can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, they should seek to enhance their skills and knowledge. This includes staying updated with the latest research methods and technologies. Continuous learning can lead to better job performance and higher pay.
Networking plays a crucial role in career advancement. Building relationships with other professionals can open doors to new opportunities. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help in this regard. Effective networking also helps in understanding the job market and salary trends.
Consider these factors to earn more as a Research Manager:
- Enhance skills and knowledge
- Network with industry professionals
- Seek leadership roles
- Gain experience in multiple industries
- Pursue advanced degrees or certifications



