UX Researcher Salary in Kirkland, Washington
Kirkland neighbors some of the largest tech company campuses in the region, including Google and Microsoft. High demand for UX researchers influences local salary levels. The cost of living is high because of housing prices.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$78,000 to $97,000
Average (per year)
$88,000
Graduates entering UX research in Kirkland often join tech giants or fast‑growing startups.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$98,000 to $122,000
Average (per year)
$110,000
Tech employers in Kirkland hire mid‑level researchers.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$124,000 to $148,000
Average (per year)
$135,000
Senior UX researchers often work for established tech firms or design agencies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$150,000+
Lead researchers in Kirkland often have backgrounds in SaaS, cloud, or enterprise UX.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$38 - $48
per hour
Mid-level
$50 - $65
per hour
Senior
$68 - $85
per hour