UX Researcher Salary in Laguna Niguel, California
Laguna Niguel sits in a high-cost part of coastal Orange County. Employers in the region work in healthcare technology and software development. Salaries here reflect the area's affluent profile.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$85,000 to $104,000
Average (per year)
$95,000
Recent graduates secure positions with small tech consultancies or remote‑first startups based elsewhere.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$105,000 to $127,000
Average (per year)
$115,000
Mid-level researchers are employed by regional software firms and design teams that serve local clients.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$128,000 to $152,000
Average (per year)
$140,000
Senior positions support high-end employers in healthcare, real estate, and finance within the region.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$153,000+
Principal‑level researchers lead UX strategy for local enterprises or serve as remote leads for larger tech firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$40 - $54
per hour
Mid-level
$55 - $75
per hour
Senior
$76 - $110
per hour