Research Scientist Salary in 2026
Official government data · Updated April 2026
The median annual salary for a Research Scientist is $117,960 per year based on the most recent national wage survey data. Employment is projected to grow 0.6% over the 2024–2034 decade.
How Much Do Research Scientists Make?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Annual Salary | $117,960 |
| 10-Year Job Growth | 0.6% |
| Total Employment | 22,580 |
| Typical Education | Bachelor's degree |
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the average salary for a Research Scientist?
- The median annual salary for a Research Scientist is $117,960 per year, based on the most recent national wage survey data.
- Is Research Scientist a growing career?
- Employment for Research Scientist roles is projected to grow 0.6% over the 2024–2034 decade. Total employment is currently 22,580 workers nationally.
- What skills increase Research Scientist pay?
- Research Scientists who demonstrate skills like Geographic information system GIS systems, Python, Adobe Creative Cloud software, Amazon Redshift typically command higher salaries. Certifications and advanced tools expertise can further boost compensation.
Salary and employment figures from official U.S. government records. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and employer.