TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years

Staff / Lead UX Researcher Salary in Los Angeles

2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.

$229,983/yr

Typical range: $195,415 $240,289

P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

UX Researcher Salary Progression in Los Angeles

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$105,668$8,806
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$130,531$10,878+24%
Mid-Level4 yrs4 yrs$147,106$12,259+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$170,312$14,193+61%
StaffThis page10 yrs10 yrs$229,983$19,165+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$288,411$24,034+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$303,018$25,252+187%
Current Salary
$229,983
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $111/hr
Next Level Target
$288,411
Principal · 14
+$58Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
49/100
Below Average
+18% demand · Moderate AI risk

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the staff / lead UX Researcher salary in Los Angeles, CA?

Staff / Lead UX Researchers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $230K 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 Los Angeles, CA?

Based on $230K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $111/hr (2,080-hour work year).

How do I get from staff / lead to senior UX Researcher in Los Angeles, CA?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior UX Researcher in Los Angeles, CA earns $195K–$240K/yr.