UX Researcher vs Security Analyst: 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.
Security Analyst
Monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents and threats.
UX Researcher earns more on average — the national median is $14,445/year (16%) higher than a Security Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
UX Researcher vs Security Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | UX Researcher | Security Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $149,234 | $133,466 | UX +$15,768 |
| New York, NY | $125,371 | $109,717 | UX +$15,654 |
| Seattle, WA | $144,039 | $129,188 | UX +$14,851 |
| Austin, TX | $118,454 | $98,064 | UX +$20,390 |
| Chicago, IL | $112,671 | $98,234 | UX +$14,437 |
| Boston, MA | $134,489 | $114,557 | UX +$19,932 |
| London, UK | £82,714 | £70,022 | UX +$12,692 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$136,619 | CA$118,720 | UX +$17,899 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a UX Researcher or Security Analyst earn more?+
A UX Researcher earns more on average. The national median salary for a UX Researcher is $104,000/year, compared to $89,555/year for a Security Analyst — a difference of $14,445 (16%).
Which has better career growth — UX Researcher or Security Analyst?+
UX Researcher roles are growing at 18% YoY while Security Analyst demand is growing at 32% YoY. Security Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from UX Researcher to Security Analyst?+
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 Security Analyst?+
Security Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 40%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.