TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead UX Researcher Salary in Austin
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$192,789/yr
Typical range: $163,811 – $201,429
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
UX Researcher salary by experience level in Austin
UX Researcher Salary Progression in Austin
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $88,579 | $7,382 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $109,421 | $9,118 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $123,316 | $10,276 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $142,768 | $11,897 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $192,789 | $16,066 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $241,768 | $20,147 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $254,013 | $21,168 | +187% |
Current Salary
$192,789
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $93/hr
Next Level Target
$241,768
Principal · 14
+$49Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
49/100
Below Average
+18% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead UX Researcher salary in Austin, TX?
Staff / Lead UX Researchers in Austin, TX earn approximately $193K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead UX Researcher make per hour in Austin, TX?
Based on $193K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $93/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior UX Researcher in Austin, TX?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior UX Researcher in Austin, TX earns $164K–$201K/yr.