TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead UX Researcher Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$235,538/yr
Typical range: $200,134 – $246,093
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
UX Researcher salary by experience level in Washington DC
UX Researcher Salary Progression in Washington DC
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 | $108,220 | $9,018 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $133,683 | $11,140 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $150,659 | $12,555 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $174,425 | $14,535 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $235,538 | $19,628 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $295,377 | $24,615 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $310,337 | $25,861 | +187% |
Current Salary
$235,538
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $113/hr
Next Level Target
$295,377
Principal · 14
+$60Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
49/100
Below Average
+18% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead UX Researcher salary in Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead UX Researchers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $236K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $236K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $113/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior UX Researcher in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior UX Researcher in Washington DC, DC earns $200K–$246K/yr.