Data Scientist Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$130,000
national median salary
$100,000 to $168,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$185,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$136,000
Chicago, IL
Lowest Paying
$100,000
Charleston, WV
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Data Scientist salary in the United States is $130,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $100,000 at the 25th percentile to $168,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $185,000, while Chicago offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Statistical depth, industry vertical, and the ability to translate models into business impact are the biggest levers.
Data Scientist salary by city
Skills that increase Data Scientist pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Data Scientists based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $18,200 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$18,200 per year
≈ +$16,900 per year
≈ +$15,600 per year
≈ +$14,300 per year
≈ +$13,000 per year
≈ +$13,000 per year
≈ +$13,000 per year
≈ +$11,700 per year
What you should know
Statistical depth, industry vertical, and the ability to translate models into business impact are the biggest levers. Data scientists who can deploy production ML models earn significantly more than those focused solely on analysis. Specialization in NLP, computer vision, or causal inference commands additional premiums.
Entry level data scientists with a master's degree start at $95,000 to $120,000. Mid level roles reach $130,000 to $170,000 after three years. Senior data scientists earn $170,000 to $220,000, while principal or staff level scientists at top firms exceed $250,000 in total compensation.
Equity grants at tech companies add $20,000 to $100,000+ annually, especially at ML focused firms. Bonuses of 10 to 20% are standard. Some companies offer research stipends, conference travel budgets, and compute credits as additional perks.