Survey Researcher Salary in 2025: $69,460 Median, but Job Outlook Declines
Survey Researchers pull together data from questionnaires and polls — the findings shape everything from marketing campaigns to public policy. The median Survey Researcher earns $69,460 per year, according to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data (OEWS/EP). That's roughly $33 an hour. The typical range runs from $39,260 at the 10th percentile up to $130,860 at the 90th.
How much Survey Researchers earn
The mean annual wage for Survey Researchers is $79,580. While $69,460 is the midpoint, experienced researchers in the highest-paying settings can pull in well over $130,000. Entry-level roles often start around $39,260. Pay varies significantly by employer type and geography.
The two largest employing industries are management, scientific, and technical consulting services (median around $75,000) and the federal government (median roughly $95,000). Researchers working for state and local government, or in universities, tend to earn less.
Pay by state
Where you practice matters a lot. Minnesota tops the list at $104,220, followed by the District of Columbia at $102,390, Michigan at $101,550, North Carolina at $96,560, and New Jersey at $95,580. At the other end, Georgia ($51,590), Maine ($47,330), and Texas ($47,330) offer the lowest average salaries. The high-paying states typically have strong demand from government agencies, research firms, or corporate analytics teams.
How to become Survey Researcher
Most employers expect at least a bachelor's degree in a field like statistics, survey methodology, economics, or social sciences. A master's degree can give you an edge, especially for roles in federal agencies or large consulting firms. Coursework in research methods, sampling, data analysis, and questionnaire design is essential.
Practical experience is key. Internships with market research firms, polling organizations, or government statistical agencies provide the hands-on training employers look for. Certification is not required, but the Insights Association's Professional Researcher Certification (PRC) can signal competence. Entry-level researchers often start as assistants or interview coordinators and move up after gaining experience with survey software (e.g., Qualtrics, SPSS, R) and data interpretation.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in statistics, survey methodology, economics, or a related social science.
- Get internship or research assistant experience with surveys and data analysis.
- Consider a master's degree for higher-level positions, especially in government or consulting.
- Learn survey software (Qualtrics, SPSS, R) and statistical analysis.
- Optional: obtain the Professional Researcher Certification (PRC) for a competitive edge.
Job outlook
Employment of Survey Researchers is projected to shrink 5.2% from 2024 to 2034, according to BLS projections. That's a decline, and it translates to roughly 700 openings each year, largely due to workers leaving the occupation or retiring. The decline stems from automation and the growing use of big data analytics, which can replace traditional survey methods. Still, demand will persist in specialized fields like healthcare, government statistics, and public opinion polling where human judgment remains critical.
Frequently asked questions
Is survey research still in demand in 2025?
Demand is declining. The BLS projects a 5.2% drop in employment from 2024 to 2034. However, about 700 new openings per year are expected due to turnover.
Do survey researchers need a master's degree?
Not always. A bachelor's degree is the minimum, but a master's in survey methodology or a related field can significantly improve job prospects and starting salary.
What state pays survey researchers the highest?
Minnesota pays the most, with an average salary of $104,220. Other top-paying states include D.C., Michigan, North Carolina, and New Jersey.
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 Survey Researchers data.