▼13%
$118,695
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$84k
MEDIAN
$119k
90%
$139k
The average salary for a Research Scientist is $118,695 in 2025
Base Salary
$84k - $139k
Bonus
$7k - $19k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $11k
Total Pay
$88k - $155k
Is Average Mid-Career Research Scientist with Data Analysis Skills Salary in San Francisco, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Research Scientists?
What Do Research Scientists Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Research Scientist
Medical
75%
Dental
67%
Vision
58%
None
25%
Gender Breakdown for Research Scientists
Male
60.0%
Female
40.0%
This data is based on 10 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Research Scientists
What is the highest pay for Research Scientists in San Francisco?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Research Scientist in San Francisco is $139k / year
What is the lowest pay for Research Scientists in San Francisco?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Research Scientist in San Francisco is $84k / year
How can Research Scientists increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Research Scientist is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Research Scientist that oversees more junior Research Scientists, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.