Research scientist salary in United States, 2026
How much does a Research Scientist make in the United States?
Average base salary
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The average salary for a research scientist is $150,706 per year in the United States. 3.1k salaries taken from job postings on Indeed in the past 36 months (updated October 29, 2026).
Highest paying companies for Research Scientist in United States
Average year pay is based on job postings on Indeed in the past 36 months.Hiring a Research Scientist?
Highest paying cities for Research Scientists near United States
Where can a Research Scientist earn more?
Compare salaries for Research Scientists in different locations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Research Scientist
The average salary for a Research Scientist is $150,706 per year in the United States. This figure is based on 3.1k salaries taken from job postings on Indeed in the past 36 months, last updated on October 29, 2026.
Research Scientist jobs on Indeed - find your next one today.
Research Scientist salaries typically range between a low of $71,718 and a high of $316,691 per year, depending on experience, location, and the hiring company.
Some of the highest-paying cities for Research Scientist include San Jose, CA at $270,641 per year, San Francisco, CA at $234,070 per year, and Seattle, WA at $208,659 per year.
Compensation can vary based on the specific niche and level of responsibility within the field. Here is how the average Research Scientist salary compares to related positions: