UX Researcher vs IT Auditor: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
UX Researcher
Conduct user research to guide product design and strategy decisions.
IT Auditor
Assess IT systems and controls to identify risks and ensure regulatory compliance.
IT Auditor earns more on average — the national median is $25,180/year (24%) higher than a UX Researcher. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
UX Researcher vs IT Auditor — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | UX Researcher | IT Auditor | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $149,234 | $191,207 | UX $41,973 |
| New York, NY | $125,371 | $159,465 | UX $34,094 |
| Seattle, WA | $144,039 | $186,599 | UX $42,560 |
| Austin, TX | $118,454 | $140,102 | UX $21,648 |
| Chicago, IL | $112,671 | $140,966 | UX $28,295 |
| Boston, MA | $134,489 | $173,381 | UX $38,892 |
| London, UK | £82,714 | £99,246 | UX $16,532 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$136,619 | CA$172,237 | UX $35,618 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a UX Researcher or IT Auditor earn more?+
A IT Auditor earns more on average. The national median salary for a UX Researcher is $104,000/year, compared to $129,180/year for a IT Auditor — a difference of $25,180 (24%).
Which has better career growth — UX Researcher or IT Auditor?+
UX Researcher roles are growing at 18% YoY while IT Auditor demand is growing at 14% YoY. UX Researcher has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from UX Researcher to IT Auditor?+
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 — UX Researcher or IT Auditor?+
UX Researcher has a lower AI automation risk (40% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.