Finding legitimate paid focus group sites can be overwhelming. There are dozens of platforms out there, and not all are created equal. We have researched and tested the top sites so you do not have to. Here are the 10 best platforms for earning money from focus groups and research studies in 2026.
1. Respondent.io
Respondent connects participants with researchers for one-on-one interviews and focus groups. Pay is among the highest in the industry, typically $100-$750 per study. They focus on professional and B2B research, making it ideal for people in tech, marketing, finance, and healthcare. Studies are usually conducted via video call. The screener process is competitive, but the payouts make it worth the effort.
2. User Interviews
User Interviews offers a wide range of studies including interviews, surveys, card sorts, and usability tests. Average pay is $50-$200 per study. The platform is user-friendly with a clean dashboard showing available studies. They have both in-person and remote opportunities. Payment is typically via PayPal or gift card within a few business days.
3. Prolific
Prolific is an academic research platform used by universities and researchers worldwide. Studies are typically shorter (10-30 minutes) with pay of $8-$15 per hour. The volume of available studies is high, and qualification rates are better than most platforms. It is a great option for steady, lower-effort income. Payment is through PayPal.
4. Fieldwork
Fieldwork has been running focus group facilities across the US for decades. They specialize in in-person focus groups at their professional facilities in major cities. Pay ranges from $75-$400 per session. They also offer online studies. If you live near one of their 15+ locations, this is one of the best options for in-person studies.
5. Recruit & Field (Schlesinger Group)
One of the largest market research companies in the world, Schlesinger operates focus group facilities in 16 US cities and offers virtual studies nationally. Pay ranges from $75-$300 per session. They run studies across all categories and have a deep pool of research clients.
6. FocusGroup.com
FocusGroup.com is one of the oldest focus group recruiting sites. They list studies from various research companies across the US. Pay ranges from $50-$500. The site is straightforward and easy to navigate, though the interface could use an update.
7. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is primarily a survey platform but also offers focus groups and product testing opportunities. Surveys pay $1-$5, but focus groups can pay $25-$150. It is a good supplementary option with a low barrier to entry. Points-based payment system redeemable via PayPal or gift cards.
8. dscout
dscout runs mobile-based research "missions" where you submit video diary entries and complete tasks on your phone. Pay ranges from $10-$250 per mission. The app-based approach makes it convenient to participate on the go. Popular with UX researchers at major tech companies.
9. Userlytics
Userlytics focuses on usability testing for websites and apps. You record yourself navigating a website while speaking your thoughts aloud. Tests typically pay $5-$90 and take 15-60 minutes. It is a great option if you are comfortable with screen recording.
10. EarnStudies
Instead of signing up for each platform individually, Earn Studies aggregates studies from all the platforms above (and more) into one searchable dashboard. For $6.99 per month, you get access to full study details, direct registration links, and personalized alerts when new studies match your profile. It is the most efficient way to maximize your focus group earnings.
Bottom Line
The best strategy is to register on multiple platforms and use Earn Studies to track them all. The more profiles you have, the more studies you will qualify for. Start with Respondent and User Interviews for high-paying studies, add Prolific for steady volume, and use Earn Studies to never miss an opportunity.