TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead UX Researcher Salary in Seattle
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$233,146/yr
Typical range: $198,102 – $243,594
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
UX Researcher salary by experience level in Seattle
UX Researcher Salary Progression in Seattle
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 | $107,121 | $8,927 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $132,326 | $11,027 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $149,129 | $12,427 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $172,654 | $14,388 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $233,146 | $19,429 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $292,378 | $24,365 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $307,185 | $25,599 | +187% |
Current Salary
$233,146
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $112/hr
Next Level Target
$292,378
Principal · 14
+$59Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
49/100
Below Average
+18% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead UX Researcher salary in Seattle, WA?
Staff / Lead UX Researchers in Seattle, WA earn approximately $233K 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 Seattle, WA?
Based on $233K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $112/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior UX Researcher in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior UX Researcher in Seattle, WA earns $198K–$244K/yr.