SOC Analyst vs UX Researcher: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
SOC Analyst
Monitor and respond to cybersecurity incidents in a security operations center.
UX Researcher
Conduct user research to guide product design and strategy decisions.
UX Researcher earns more on average — the national median is $26,000/year (33%) higher than a SOC Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
SOC Analyst vs UX Researcher — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | SOC Analyst | UX Researcher | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $162,310 | $149,234 | SOC +$13,076 |
| New York, NY | $140,470 | $119,190 | SOC +$21,280 |
| Seattle, WA | $161,780 | $144,039 | SOC +$17,741 |
| Austin, TX | $134,100 | $119,950 | SOC +$14,150 |
| Chicago, IL | $125,310 | $87,920 | SOC +$37,390 |
| Boston, MA | $136,550 | $122,270 | SOC +$14,280 |
| London, UK | £62,471 | £82,714 | SOC $20,243 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$101,081 | CA$136,619 | SOC $35,538 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a SOC Analyst or UX Researcher earn more?+
A UX Researcher earns more on average. The national median salary for a SOC Analyst is $78,000/year, compared to $104,000/year for a UX Researcher — a difference of $26,000 (33%).
Which has better career growth — SOC Analyst or UX Researcher?+
SOC Analyst roles are growing at 28% YoY while UX Researcher demand is growing at 18% YoY. SOC Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from SOC Analyst to UX Researcher?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — SOC Analyst or UX Researcher?+
UX Researcher has a lower AI automation risk (40% vs 55%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.