Social Science Research Assistants Salary 2025: $61,990 Median, Growth Outpacing Average
Social Science Research Assistants earn a median annual salary of $61,990, with the top 10% pulling in over $102,070. The middle half earns between $38,090 and $102,070. That works out to roughly $30 per hour at the mean. Employment in this field stands at 30,640 workers, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4.4% growth from 2024 to 2034 — faster than the average for all occupations. About 5,200 openings open up each year, many from retirements or workers switching careers.
How much Social Science Research Assistants earn
The national median salary for Social Science Research Assistants is $61,990 per year. The mean annual wage hits $66,140, which translates to about $31.80 an hour when you average it out. If you're just starting, expect around $38,090 at the 10th percentile. Experienced assistants in the 90th percentile clear $102,070.
Pay by state
Where you work changes your paycheck dramatically. The highest-paying state is Oklahoma, at $69,090 annually. Delaware is right behind at $68,230, followed by Kansas ($67,740), Georgia ($66,620), and Kentucky ($66,390). At the other end, South Dakota ($44,820), Iowa ($40,940), and especially Nevada ($26,560) pay much less. Nevada's figure is an extreme outlier — less than half the national median.
How to become a Social Science Research Assistant
Most employers want at least a bachelor's degree in a social science field — sociology, psychology, economics, political science, or anthropology. Coursework in research methods and statistics is essential. Some jobs, especially in government or at top universities, prefer a master's degree. There's no formal license required, but strong computer skills (SPSS, Stata, R, or Python) and experience with surveys or lab experiments help. Internships during college are the standard entry route. On-the-job training is typical once hired.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in a social science (or related field).
- Take research methods and statistics classes.
- Learn data analysis software (SPSS, Stata, R, Python).
- Complete an internship in a research lab, university, or government agency.
- Optionally pursue a master's degree for advanced roles or higher pay.
Job outlook
Employment for Social Science Research Assistants is projected to grow 4.4% from 2024 to 2034, a rate the BLS calls 'faster than average.' That means about 5,200 openings per year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Demand is driven by universities, think tanks, and government agencies needing data to inform policy and social programs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for Social Science Research Assistants?
The 10th to 90th percentile range is $38,090 to $102,070 per year. The median is $61,990.
What degree do I need to become a Social Science Research Assistant?
A bachelor's degree in a social science (sociology, psychology, economics, etc.) with research methods coursework is the minimum. A master's degree can improve prospects and pay.
Is the job outlook good for Social Science Research Assistants?
Yes. The BLS projects 4.4% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, with about 5,200 job openings each year.
Which states pay Social Science Research Assistants the most?
Oklahoma ($69,090), Delaware ($68,230), Kansas ($67,740), Georgia ($66,620), and Kentucky ($66,390) top the list.
What skills do employers look for?
Proficiency in statistical software (SPSS, Stata, R, Python), strong analytical writing, and familiarity with survey methods or lab protocols.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Social Science Research Assistants data.