UX Researcher vs IT Support Specialist: 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 Support Specialist
Provide technical support for hardware, software, and networks.
UX Researcher earns more on average — the national median is $42,140/year (68%) higher than a IT Support Specialist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
UX Researcher vs IT Support Specialist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | UX Researcher | IT Support Specialist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $149,234 | $92,808 | UX +$56,426 |
| New York, NY | $125,371 | $72,917 | UX +$52,454 |
| Seattle, WA | $144,039 | $86,967 | UX +$57,072 |
| Austin, TX | $118,454 | $69,244 | UX +$49,210 |
| Chicago, IL | $112,671 | $64,877 | UX +$47,794 |
| Boston, MA | $134,489 | $79,215 | UX +$55,274 |
| London, UK | £82,714 | £47,998 | UX +$34,716 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$136,619 | CA$84,196 | UX +$52,423 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a UX Researcher or IT Support Specialist earn more?+
A UX Researcher earns more on average. The national median salary for a UX Researcher is $104,000/year, compared to $61,860/year for a IT Support Specialist — a difference of $42,140 (68%).
Which has better career growth — UX Researcher or IT Support Specialist?+
UX Researcher roles are growing at 18% YoY while IT Support Specialist demand is growing at 5% YoY. UX Researcher has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from UX Researcher to IT Support Specialist?+
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 Support Specialist?+
UX Researcher has a lower AI automation risk (40% vs 71%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.