Is Plaza Research Legit? 2026 Review, Safety Score & Payouts
By GrindBoss Team • Last updated: January 6, 2026
Plaza Research Review Quick Verdict
The Bottom Line: Plaza Research offers a solid opportunity to earn good money by participating in focus groups and market research studies. You can get paid well for sharing your opinions, often in person.
Why We Love It
- High pay per study ($50-$250)
- Engaging focus group format
- Immediate cash for in-person studies
The Catch
- ✕Limited by physical location
- ✕Studies are not always available
- ✕Screening can be strict
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What is Plaza Research & How Does It Work?
Plaza Research connects people like you with companies looking for feedback on products and services. You participate in focus groups or interviews, sharing your honest opinions.
Unlike typical online survey sites that pay very little, Plaza Research focuses on high-paying, in-depth market research studies. These often involve in-person meetings or longer online sessions.
At A Glance
- TypeFocus Group | Market Research
- PlatformIn-person | Web
- CostFree
- Est. YearN/A
How It Works
Sign Up and Profile
Create an account on their website. Fill out your profile completely to help them match you with relevant studies.
Qualify for Studies
You will be contacted by phone or email for studies that fit your background. You'll answer a few questions to see if you are a good fit.
Participate and Get Paid
Attend the focus group or online interview. Share your thoughts and receive your payment, often immediately for in-person sessions.
Is Plaza Research Legit or a Scam? (Safety Check)
When considering any platform for earning money, it's smart to check its legitimacy. Here's a look at Plaza Research's background.
- Established Company: Plaza Research has been around for many years, building a reputation in the market research industry. They are a well-known name for conducting consumer studies.
- Physical Locations: They operate out of multiple physical locations across the United States. This indicates a stable and real business, not just an anonymous online entity.
- Tier Rating: Our internal data rates Plaza Research as a 'Good' tier opportunity. This suggests a reliable experience for participants looking to earn money.
- Clear Purpose: Plaza Research clearly states its goal: to gather consumer insights for businesses. This transparency helps confirm its legitimate operations.
Verdict: Legit
Plaza Research is a legitimate market research company. They have a long history and physical presence, making them a trustworthy option for earning money through focus groups.
How Much Money Can You Make? (Earning Potential)
Plaza Research stands out for its higher pay compared to most online survey sites. However, it's not a consistent daily income source.
- High Pay Per Study: You can expect to earn between $50 and $250 for each study you complete. This is significantly more than typical online surveys, which often pay just a few dollars.
- Hourly Rate Potential: Since most focus groups last 1 to 2 hours, your effective hourly rate can be quite high. It often translates to $25 to $100 per hour, depending on the study.
- Study Frequency Varies: Studies are not always available. You might qualify for a study once a month, or less often. It depends on your demographics and the current research needs.
- Not a Full-Time Income: While the pay per study is good, the infrequency means you cannot rely on Plaza Research for a full-time income. It's best seen as a valuable side hustle.
Bottom Line: Plaza Research offers excellent pay for individual studies, but the opportunities are not regular enough to be a primary income source. It's great for adding extra cash.
Plaza Research Payment Methods & Cashout Speed
Getting paid is a key part of any side hustle. Plaza Research offers clear and reliable payment methods for its participants.
- Payment Method: Payments are typically made via check, cash (for in-person studies), or digital gift cards. You will know the payment method before you agree to a study.
- Minimum Cashout: The minimum payout is usually tied to the specific study you complete, starting around $50. You get paid for each study you finish.
- Cashout Speed: For in-person studies, you often receive cash immediately after completing the session. For online studies or checks, it can take 1 to 2 weeks to receive payment.
- Approval Process: Once you complete a study, your participation is confirmed by the research team. After this, your payment is processed according to the study's terms.
- Tax Considerations: As with any earnings, money made from Plaza Research studies is taxable income. You are responsible for reporting these earnings to the tax authorities.
Bottom Line: Plaza Research provides straightforward payment options, with in-person studies offering immediate cash. Online payments arrive within a couple of weeks.
Pros and Cons of Using Plaza Research
The Good
- High Payouts. Earn $50 to $250 for each study, which is much higher than most survey sites.
- Engaging Studies. Participate in interesting discussions and share valuable feedback, often in a group setting.
- Immediate Payments. Many in-person studies offer cash payment right after you finish.
- Legitimate Company. Plaza Research has a long-standing reputation and physical locations, confirming its legitimacy.
- Influential Feedback. Your opinions directly help shape new products and services for major companies.
The Bad
- Location Dependent. Many studies require you to live near one of their physical facilities in the USA.
- Inconsistent Opportunities. Studies are not always available, so you cannot rely on it for steady income.
- Strict Screening. You might not qualify for many studies due to very specific demographic needs.
- Time Commitment. Studies can be longer than typical online surveys, requiring dedicated time slots.
Plaza Research Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plaza Research legit or a scam?
Plaza Research is definitely legitimate. They are a well-established market research company with physical offices across the US and a long history of conducting studies and paying participants.
How much money can I make on Plaza Research?
You can typically earn between $50 and $250 per study. The amount depends on the length and complexity of the focus group or interview. However, opportunities are not daily.
How fast does Plaza Research pay?
For in-person studies, you often receive cash immediately after completing the session. For online studies or check payments, it usually takes 1 to 2 weeks to get your money.
What payment methods does Plaza Research use?
Plaza Research pays participants with cash (for in-person studies), checks, or digital gift cards. The specific method will be communicated when you are invited to a study.
Who qualifies for Plaza Research studies?
Eligibility depends on the specific needs of each study. Researchers look for people with certain demographics, habits, or experiences. Filling out your profile completely helps them match you.
How can I get more studies from Plaza Research?
Make sure your profile is fully updated with all your information. Respond promptly to screening calls or emails. Living near one of their physical locations in the USA also increases your chances for in-person studies.
Are Plaza Research studies always in-person?
No, Plaza Research conducts both in-person focus groups at their facilities and online studies. The type of study you are invited to will depend on the research requirements and your location.
