UX Researcher Salary in Palo Alto, California
Palo Alto is located in Silicon Valley. The area has a high cost of living and strong competition. Benefits and equity are commonly part of compensation.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$100,000 to $135,000
Average (per year)
$118,000
Recent graduates at Palo Alto employers such as Meta or HP receive starting salaries.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$135,000 to $170,000
Average (per year)
$150,000
Mid-level researchers with several years of experience work in Silicon Valley.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$170,000 to $210,000
Average (per year)
$187,000
Senior researchers may receive stock options and bonuses, particularly at companies building consumer software or connected devices.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$210,000+
Principal UX researchers in Palo Alto lead teams for tech firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$48 - $65
per hour
Mid-level
$65 - $90
per hour
Senior
$90 - $130
per hour