▼55%
$117,269
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$77k
MEDIAN
$117k
90%
$171k
The average salary for a Research Director is $117,269 in 2025
Base Salary
$77k - $171k
Bonus
$2k - $34k
Profit Sharing
$869 - $9k
Commission
$0 - $12k
Total Pay
$78k - $186k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Research Directors?
What Do Research Directors Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Research Directors Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 50 responses, the job of Research Director has received a job satisfaction rating of 3.87 out of 5. On average, Research Directors are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Research Director
Medical
90%
Dental
85%
Vision
74%
None
9%
Gender Breakdown for Research Directors
Female
68.9%
Male
29.4%
Prefer to self-define
1.7%
This data is based on 180 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Research Directors
What is the highest pay for Research Directors?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Research Director is $171k / year
What is the lowest pay for Research Directors?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Research Director is $77k / year
How can Research Directors increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Research Director 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 Director that oversees more junior Research Directors, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.