Conduct original research to advance knowledge in a specific scientific discipline. Median salary in Elizabeth: $116K/year. Data from BLS, O*NET, and H-1B disclosures.
Figures represent annual base salary in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Reviewed by SalaryOptics Editorial · How we calculate this →
Analysis derived from the salary, COL, tax, and labor-market figures above — specific to this role and city.
Research Scientists in Elizabeth earn approximately 18% higher than the US national median for this role — a $18,000 premium on annual base salary. This reflects Elizabeth's position as a higher-cost labor market where employers must match local wage norms.
Adjusted for Elizabeth's cost-of-living index (145), the median Research Scientist salary buys the equivalent of $80,000 in a US-average-cost city. That's $18,000 less purchasing power than the national median — the higher nominal salary doesn't fully offset local costs.
New Jersey's 10.75% state income tax reduces take-home by roughly $12,470 per year at the median salary. A Research Scientist relocating to a no-tax state like Texas, Florida, or Tennessee would retain that amount without changing gross pay.
Based on BLS 2022–2032 Employment Projections and WEF Future of Jobs Report 2026. At current growth rates, median salary reaches $116K by 2030.
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The median Research Scientist salary in Elizabeth, NJ is $116,000 per year as of Q1 2026. This figure represents the midpoint of all reported compensation for this role in the Elizabeth–NJ metropolitan area, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics, H-1B visa disclosures from the Department of Labor, and O*NET occupational data.
Entry-level Research Scientists in Elizabeth with 0–2 years of experience typically earn between $85,000 and $116,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years command $116,000 to $156,000, while senior-level practitioners with 8+ years of experience regularly earn $156,000 to $207,000 or more.
Elizabeth has a cost of living index of 145 compared to the US national average of 100. Elizabeth's cost of living is above the US average, so the salary figures above reflect local market rates. New Jersey has a 10.75% state income tax rate.
PhD in relevant science field. 40% of these roles offer some remote flexibility.