Computer and Information Research Scientists vs. Computer User Support Specialists: Who Earns More?
Computer and Information Research Scientists out-earn Computer User Support Specialists by $78K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Computer and Information Research Scientists land at $140,300 and Computer User Support Specialists at $61,860. The education gap is real: computer and information research scientist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while computer user support specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Computer and Information Research Scientists is Oregon ($206,220); for Computer User Support Specialists it's District of Columbia ($80,950).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Computer and Information Research Scientists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Computer and Information Research Scientists or Computer User Support Specialists?
Computer and Information Research Scientists earn more nationally. The median is $140,300 for Computer and Information Research Scientists versus $61,860 for Computer User Support Specialists, a difference of $78K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Computer and Information Research Scientists or Computer User Support Specialists?
Computer and Information Research Scientists has the better 10-year outlook at 19.7% projected growth, compared to -3.7% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Computer and Information Research Scientists or Computer User Support Specialists?
Computer and Information Research Scientists typically requires bachelor's degree. Computer User Support Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Computer and Information Research Scientists get paid the most?
Oregon is the top-paying state for Computer and Information Research Scientists at $206,220/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Computer and Information Research Scientists vs. Computer User Support Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Computer and Information Research Scientists earn $206,220 vs. $62,840 for Computer User Support Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.