Market research companies in California play a key role in shaping business strategies. By providing insights into consumer preferences, trends, and market dynamics, they equip organizations across various sectors to make informed decisions. These firms utilize methods ranging from surveys and focus groups to advanced analytics, analyzing complex data to create tailored solutions. The industry is evolving rapidly, driven by technology and data science, enabling deeper insights and broader reach. As businesses recognize the value of data-driven strategies, collaboration and innovation within the sector are likely to flourish, positioning market research as an indispensable resource.

The companies on this list vary greatly in size, operating from small teams of under 10 to larger organizations with thousands of employees. Most were founded in the late 20th or early 21st centuries, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to client needs. Located primarily in major Californian cities, these companies specialize in areas such as consumer behavior analysis, brand strategy, and online surveys. Their focus ranges from traditional methodologies to digital analytics, reflecting the evolving landscape of market research.

Read on to discover the top market research companies in California.

Top 23 Market Research Companies in California

1. Frost & Sullivan

• Website: frost.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: frost-%26-sullivan

Frost & Sullivan is a consulting firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1961. The company specializes in market research and growth strategy consulting, providing insights and training to businesses across multiple industries. With a workforce of over 2,400 employees, Frost & Sullivan has developed a robust portfolio of services that includes market research, technology research, strategic forecasting, and analyst briefings. Their research covers a wide array of sectors such as healthcare, automotive, energy, and information technology, helping clients understand market dynamics and identify growth opportunities. The firm is known for its comprehensive reports and data-driven insights, which assist organizations in making informed decisions and enhancing their competitive edge.

2. Lrw

• Website: lrwonline.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: July 2015
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: lieberman-research-worldwide

Lieberman Research Worldwide (LRW) is a marketing consultancy based in Los Angeles, California, with a history dating back to 1973. The firm specializes in market research, brand development, and customer experience optimization. LRW employs a range of methodologies to help businesses understand consumer behavior and improve their marketing strategies. Their services include market segmentation, innovation and product development, advertising effectiveness, and customer experience management. The company has built a reputation for utilizing advanced research techniques, behavioral science, and digital analytics to provide actionable insights. With a workforce of approximately 450 employees, LRW operates in multiple locations, including New York, London, and Chicago. They are part of the Material family of marketing services agencies, which enhances their capabilities in delivering comprehensive marketing solutions.

3. BIS Research

• Website: bisresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fremont, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 91%, United States (USA) 9%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bis-research

BIS Research, founded in 2014 and based in Fremont, California, is a market research firm that provides market intelligence and consulting services across various sectors. The company focuses on emerging technologies and offers a range of products, including market research reports, expert networks, and custom research tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses. With a workforce primarily located in India, BIS Research has established a global presence, serving clients in industries such as healthcare, automotive, and technology. Their commitment to delivering actionable insights helps organizations navigate complex market dynamics and make strategic decisions. The firm has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model since its inception.

4. Testa Marketing

• Website: testamarketing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Mexico 86%, Italy 14%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: testa-marketing

Testa Marketing is a market research agency based in San Diego, California, with additional offices in Mexico and Spain. Established in 2004, the company has built a reputation for providing comprehensive research services tailored to the needs of businesses. Their offerings include face-to-face surveys, telephone interviews, online surveys, mystery shopping, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and consulting services. With a team of around 15 employees and over 100 field interviewers, Testa Marketing has the capacity to conduct extensive research across various sectors. Their clientele includes a mix of local and international businesses, reflecting their ability to adapt to different market needs. The company emphasizes transforming data into actionable strategies, helping clients make informed decisions based on reliable market insights. Testa Marketing's commitment to ethical research practices is underscored by their adherence to ESOMAR's principles, ensuring integrity and respect for participants in their studies.

5. Murphy Research

• Website: murphyresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: murphy-research

Murphy Research, based in Santa Monica, California, is a market research firm that has been operational since 2008. With a team of approximately 41 employees, the company specializes in providing comprehensive insights and consulting services tailored to businesses in various sectors, including technology and consumer goods. Their service offerings include market assessment, brand strategy, communications research, and customer loyalty initiatives. Murphy Research prides itself on its innovative research design and rigorous execution, which are essential for delivering enduring insights. The firm has developed proprietary tools, such as the 'State of Our Health' tracker, which is recognized as one of the largest continuous trackers focused on fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness. This initiative reflects their proactive approach to addressing emerging trends in health and wellness. Murphy Research has collaborated with a range of clients, from established Fortune 500 companies to smaller, emerging brands, showcasing their adaptability and expertise in the market research field.

6. F'inn

• Website: finn-group.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: f%27inn

F'inn, based in San Francisco, California, is a strategic insights agency that has been operational since 2015. The company specializes in market research and consulting services, offering a range of solutions that include market exploration, brand development, and audience targeting. F'inn primarily serves innovative brands and businesses, leveraging their expertise to help clients understand and adapt to complex market dynamics and consumer behaviors. The agency prides itself on its innovative mindset, utilizing AI tools to enhance research capabilities and provide deeper insights. With a team of 15 employees, F'inn has completed over 1,050 projects in more than 50 countries, reflecting their extensive experience and commitment to delivering actionable insights. Their focus on human-centered research and the integration of advanced analytics positions them as a significant player in the market research industry.

7. Davis Research

• Website: davisresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Calabasas, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: davis-research

Davis Research, based in Calabasas, California, is a private survey research firm that has been serving clients since 1970. With a team of approximately 96 professionals, the company specializes in executing complex research projects tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses and organizations. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including survey research, market research, and data analysis, which are essential for informed decision-making. Davis Research has worked with a variety of clients, from individual research professionals to large corporations, across multiple industries such as automotive, social science, financial services, food services, public health, and political polling. Their approach emphasizes the importance of using the right methodologies and sampling strategies to ensure accurate and reliable insights. The firm is recognized for its commitment to quality and has maintained a strong reputation among its clients, evidenced by positive feedback regarding their professionalism and the quality of data provided.

8. EMC Research Inc.

• Website: emcresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oakland, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: emc-research-inc.

EMC Research Inc. is a market research firm based in Oakland, California, that has been operational since 1989. With a workforce of approximately 39 employees, the company specializes in providing data analytics and consulting services tailored to businesses and organizations. Their expertise spans several areas, including branding and positioning, customer satisfaction, political research, and social and behavioral studies. EMC Research employs both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather insights, helping clients navigate complex decision-making processes. Their methodologies include telephone surveys, focus groups, and online surveys, among others. The firm has built a reputation for delivering valuable insights that assist clients in developing effective strategies. EMC Research's commitment to data-driven decision-making positions them as a relevant player in the market research industry.

9. Jackson Adept Research

• Website: adeptresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: jackson-adept-research

Jackson Adept Research, founded in 1980 and based in Beverly Hills, California, is a private marketing research firm that specializes in qualitative and quantitative research. The company operates facilities in key locations such as Los Angeles and Atlanta, providing services that include focus groups, data collection, and moderator services. With a team of around 30 employees, Jackson Adept Research has built a reputation for its meticulous approach to recruiting participants and managing research projects. Their facilities are equipped to handle various types of studies, including sensory and taste tests, which are crucial for clients in the food and beverage industry. The firm has maintained a strong presence in the market research sector for over four decades, catering primarily to businesses and organizations seeking to understand consumer behavior and improve their marketing strategies.

10. Alter Agents

• Website: alteragents.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: alter-agents

Alter Agents is a market research consultancy based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in providing consumer insights and strategic consultancy services, helping businesses understand consumer behavior and decision-making processes through a variety of research methodologies. With a team of experienced researchers, Alter Agents focuses on delivering high-quality, actionable insights tailored to the specific needs of their clients. They have developed a reputation for innovative problem-solving and exceptional client service, often acting as an extension of their clients' teams. Their client base includes a range of brands and businesses seeking to improve their marketing strategies and consumer engagement. The company also engages in thought leadership, producing studies and articles that contribute to the broader understanding of market research and consumer insights.

11. ROS Research

• Website: rosresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rosresearch

ROS Research LLC, based in Santa Monica, California, is a market research firm that has been operational since 2006. The company focuses on data collection, analysis, and consulting services, primarily serving businesses in sectors like healthcare and telecommunications. With a team of skilled professionals, ROS Research employs advanced methodologies to deliver high-quality research solutions tailored to client needs. Their services include Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI), online surveys, survey programming, and data processing, ensuring comprehensive data collection and analysis. The firm has built a reputation for providing actionable insights that help organizations enhance their decision-making processes. Although ROS Research has not reported any funding, their growth and client testimonials suggest they have made a significant impact in the market research industry.

12. Tailor Research

• Website: tailorresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Walnut Creek, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 53%, Mexico 32%, Philippines 16%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tailor-research

Tailor Research, established in 2007 and based in Walnut Creek, California, is a market research firm that specializes in providing tailored research solutions. The company primarily serves clients in the finance and investment sectors, offering services such as surveys, analytics, competitive analysis, and customer experience programs. Tailor Research has evolved its methodologies over the years, notably shifting from traditional survey techniques to incorporating crowdsourcing methods. This evolution was partly influenced by their acquisition by Penserra Securities in 2013, which expanded their research capabilities. In 2019, the founders pivoted the company to serve a broader range of industries, allowing them to leverage their expertise in market research for various sectors. Their unique business model focuses on delivering high-quality research at competitive prices, making them an attractive option for businesses looking for insightful data. Tailor Research has successfully executed projects across multiple countries, demonstrating their global reach and adaptability in the market research industry.

13. MFour Research

• Website: mfour.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Ukraine 7%
• Latest funding: Series B, $5.0M, April 2017
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mfour-mobile-research

MFour Research, based in Irvine, California, is a market research company that specializes in providing validated consumer data and insights. Established in 2011, the firm has developed a reputation for its innovative methodologies that integrate mobile and web behavior data with traditional survey techniques. MFour offers a range of services, including surveys and behavior analysis, aimed at helping businesses understand consumer behavior and enhance their marketing strategies. Their client roster primarily includes companies in the retail and consumer goods sectors, which rely on MFour's insights to drive decision-making. The company has received significant venture capital funding, with a Series B round totaling $5 million in 2017, indicating investor confidence in their business model and growth potential. MFour's unique approach to market research, particularly their focus on validated responses and fraud reduction, positions them as a noteworthy player in the industry.

14. Branded Research, Inc.

• Website: gobranded.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 40%, United States (USA) 30%, India 30%
• Latest funding: June 2022
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: brandedresearch

Branded Research, Inc., based in San Diego, California, is a market research firm that specializes in audience insights and data analytics. Established in 2012, the company has carved out a niche by offering services such as audience sampling, surveys, and API access for real-time insights. Branded Research serves clients across various sectors, helping them understand consumer behavior and refine their marketing strategies. The firm prides itself on its commitment to data quality, employing AI to ensure the integrity of participant responses. With a community of over 2 million members and a focus on targeted audience recruitment, Branded Research has positioned itself as a valuable resource for businesses seeking to gather actionable insights. Their recent acquisition by Dynata further enhances their capabilities, allowing them to leverage a larger network and advanced technologies in their research efforts.

15. Q&A Research

• Website: qar.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Novato, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Australia 75%, United States (USA) 25%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: q%26a-research

Q&A Research, based in Novato, California, is a marketing research firm that has been operational since 1991. With a small team of dedicated professionals, they specialize in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Their services range from web surveys and phone interviews to in-depth qualitative studies like focus groups and ethnographies. The firm prides itself on its ability to customize research projects to fit the unique needs of each client, ensuring that the insights generated are both relevant and actionable. Over the years, Q&A Research has built a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, helping hundreds of clients navigate their business questions. Recently, the company underwent a leadership transition, with a new team taking over to continue its legacy while exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation in the market research sector.

16. AllTheResearch

• Website: alltheresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fremont, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 65%, United States (USA) 35%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: all-the-research

AllTheResearch, based in Fremont, California, is a private market research firm founded in 2017. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company specializes in providing strategic research reports, custom research, and consulting services across various sectors, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), healthcare, agriculture, and more. The firm aims to assist businesses and organizations in enhancing their decision-making processes and strategic planning through insightful market analysis. Although the company has not reported any funding, it has been operational since its inception and continues to serve clients with tailored research solutions. The employee distribution shows a significant presence in India, indicating a potential for cost-effective research capabilities. AllTheResearch's commitment to delivering comprehensive market insights positions it as a relevant player in the market research industry.

17. Luth Research

• Website: luthresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Nigeria 7%, South Africa 4%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: luth-research

Luth Research, based in San Diego, California, is a market research firm that has been operational since 1977. The company specializes in consumer behavior insights through advanced data analytics and behavioral tracking. With a workforce of approximately 183 employees, Luth Research has built a robust portfolio of services that includes audience insights, shopper behavior analysis, and comprehensive research services. Their proprietary technology, ZQ Intelligence®, is designed to track consumer behavior across various digital platforms, providing clients with a clear view of customer journeys. This technology allows Luth Research to serve a wide array of clients, including many Fortune 100 companies, helping them optimize their marketing strategies and understand customer interactions. The firm has also developed a global community through its SurveySavvy® online research panel, which enhances its data collection capabilities. Luth Research's commitment to innovation and technology in market research has kept it relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.

18. Nielsen NeuroFocus

• Website: neurofocus.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 43%, United States (USA) 14%, Ukraine 14%, Other 29%
• Latest funding: May 2011
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nielsen-neurofocus

Nielsen NeuroFocus, a subsidiary of NielsenIQ, is a market research firm based in Berkeley, California. Founded in 2006, the company has carved out a niche in providing insights and analytics to businesses, particularly in the Consumer Packaged Goods and Retail sectors. They offer a range of services, including market measurement, consumer behavior analysis, and product testing. Their methodologies incorporate advanced techniques, such as neuroscience, to better understand consumer preferences and optimize marketing strategies. With a workforce of around 64 employees, Nielsen NeuroFocus operates globally, with a significant portion of its team based in India. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model since its last funding round in 2011. Their commitment to delivering high-quality insights makes them a notable entity in the market research industry.

19. Rakuten Intelligence

• Website: rakutenintelligence.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Ukraine 50%, United States (USA) 50%
• Latest funding: September 2021
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rakuten-intelligence

Rakuten Intelligence, now operating under the name NIQ, is a market research firm based in San Mateo, California. Founded in 2013, the company specializes in providing in-depth consumer insights and data analytics services. NIQ serves a wide range of clients, including retailers and manufacturers, by offering solutions that help them understand market trends and consumer behavior. The company operates in various sectors, notably Consumer Packaged Goods and Technology, and utilizes advanced analytics to support its clients' growth strategies. With a workforce split evenly between the United States and Ukraine, NIQ has positioned itself as a significant player in the market research field, capturing extensive data on consumer spending and behavior. Their insights are trusted by thousands of retailers and manufacturers, reflecting their relevance and impact in the industry.

20. Vital Findings

• Website: vitalfindings.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: vital-findings

Vital Findings, founded in 2010 and based in Culver City, California, is a market research firm that specializes in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company has carved out a niche in behavioral and data science, integrating advanced analytics and artificial intelligence into their research processes. They focus on delivering insights that help brands understand consumer behavior and make informed decisions. Vital Findings collaborates closely with clients, ensuring that their research solutions are tailored to meet specific business challenges. Their portfolio features a range of case studies, highlighting their work with various industries, including beauty, finance, and technology. The firm emphasizes the importance of design and activation in research, aiming to not only inform but also inspire action within organizations. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model.

21. Bovitz, Inc.

• Website: bovitzinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bovitz-inc-

Bovitz, Inc., founded in 2003 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a market research firm dedicated to providing insights and consulting services to businesses across various industries. With a team of 11-50 employees, the company prides itself on a people-first philosophy, which drives its research methodologies. Bovitz focuses on understanding consumer needs and enhancing customer experiences through innovative approaches, such as their proprietary panel and Discovery Sessions. Their work spans multiple sectors, and they have collaborated with notable clients to help them shift their focus from profit alone to creating meaningful value for people. This commitment to a human-centered approach distinguishes Bovitz in the competitive landscape of market research.

22. BrandIQ

• Website: brandiq.biz
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: brand-iq

BrandIQ, based in Los Angeles, California, is a market research and brand strategy agency founded in 2002. With a team of approximately 33 employees, the company focuses on delivering insights and innovative solutions tailored to the needs of businesses and organizations. Their services include brand strategy, brand tracking, and custom market research, which help clients understand their market position and enhance brand effectiveness. BrandIQ has worked with a variety of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to non-profits, demonstrating their ability to cater to different sectors. They have a strong emphasis on purpose-driven work, as evidenced by their B Corporation certification, which reflects their commitment to social and environmental performance. Their expertise spans industries such as food and beverage, restaurants, and education, showcasing their adaptability and relevance in the market research field.

23. Socratic Technologies, Inc.

• Website: sotech.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sebastopol, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: socratic-technologies

Socratic Technologies, Inc., based in Sebastopol, California, is a market research firm founded in 1994. With a team of 36 employees, the company specializes in providing a range of research services, including product testing, strategy consulting, and message testing. Socratic Technologies serves a variety of industries, such as consumer products, financial services, restaurants, and technology. They emphasize the importance of data quality and have developed proprietary tools to enhance their research capabilities. Their approach combines traditional research methods with advanced statistical techniques, ensuring that clients receive actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making. Socratic has worked with both large corporations and startups, showcasing their ability to adapt to different client needs and project scopes. They also maintain a strong focus on data security and participant quality, which is critical in today's research environment.

Market Research Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Frost & Sullivan	Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1961	Private
Lrw	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1973	Private Equity
BIS Research	Fremont, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2014	Private
Testa Marketing	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2004	Private
Murphy Research	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private
F'inn	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2015	Private
Davis Research	Calabasas, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1970	Private
EMC Research Inc.	Oakland, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1989	Private
Jackson Adept Research	Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1980	Private
Alter Agents	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2010	Private
ROS Research	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2006	Private
Tailor Research	Walnut Creek, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2007	Private
MFour Research	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2011	Venture Capital
Branded Research, Inc.	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2012	Corporate
Q&A Research	Novato, California, United States (USA)	1-10	1991	Private
AllTheResearch	Fremont, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2017	Private
Luth Research	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1977	Private
Nielsen NeuroFocus	Berkeley, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2006	Corporate
Rakuten Intelligence	San Mateo, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2013	Corporate
Vital Findings	Culver City, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2010	Private
Bovitz, Inc.	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2003	Private
BrandIQ	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2002	Private
Socratic Technologies, Inc.	Sebastopol, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1994	Private

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