UX Researcher Salary
in San Francisco, CA
Plan and conduct user research studies to inform product design decisions. Median salary in San Francisco: $168K/year. Data from BLS, O*NET, and H-1B disclosures.
Salary range in San Francisco
Source: BLS OES 2026, H-1B DOL Disclosures Q1 2026. Figures represent annual base salary in San Francisco, California.
Key facts for San Francisco
Salary forecast: San Francisco UX Researcher to 2030
Based on BLS 2022–2032 Employment Projections and WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025. At current growth rates, median salary reaches $168K by 2030.
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UX Researcher Salary in San Francisco, California: Complete Guide (2026)
The median UX Researcher salary in San Francisco, CA is $168,000 per year as of Q1 2025. This figure represents the midpoint of all reported compensation for this role in the San Francisco–CA 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.
Salary range for UX Researcher in San Francisco
Entry-level UX Researchers in San Francisco with 0–2 years of experience typically earn between $123,000 and $168,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years command $168,000 to $218,000, while senior-level practitioners with 8+ years of experience regularly earn $218,000 to $278,000 or more.
Cost of living in San Francisco for UX Researchers
San Francisco has a cost of living index of 224 compared to the US national average of 100. San Francisco's cost of living is above the US average, so the salary figures above reflect local market rates. California has a 9.3% state income tax rate.
Education requirements for UX Researcher
Bachelor's or Master's in Psychology, HCI, or Design. This role is 70% remote-eligible nationally, which can significantly expand the job market for San Francisco-based professionals.