How much does a Data Scientist make?
Data scientists use their skills to help companies make smart decisions. They analyze and interpret complex data. Because of their important work, data scientists earn good salaries. The average yearly salary for a data scientist is $147,934. This number can change based on many factors, including experience and location.
Salary can vary a lot in this field. Here are some examples:
- About 6% of data scientists earn less than $68,155.
- Almost 17% make between $124,568 and $143,372.
- Over 16% earn more than $218,588 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Data Scientist?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $195,814
Working in San Francisco offers a dynamic tech environment. Companies like Google and Salesforce lead the way in data science. Opportunities here focus on innovation and growth.
Find Data Scientist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $173,930
Seattle is a tech hub with giants such as Amazon and Microsoft. Data scientists here enjoy a vibrant community. They work on cutting-edge projects with a focus on sustainability and technology.
Find Data Scientist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $168,290
San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley. Tech companies such as Apple and Intel seek top talent. Data scientists here benefit from a collaborative atmosphere and frequent tech events.
Find Data Scientist jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Greensboro, NC
Average Salary: $164,486
Greensboro is becoming a tech hotspot. Companies like IBM and Cisco are expanding their data science teams. This city offers a blend of affordability and tech growth.
Find Data Scientist jobs in Greensboro, NC
-
San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $157,826
San Antonio provides a growing tech scene with strong companies like AT&T and Rackspace. Data scientists here enjoy a warm climate and a supportive community.
Find Data Scientist jobs in San Antonio, TX
-
Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $155,523
Fayetteville offers a quiet tech environment with fewer crowds. Companies like Tyson Foods and J.B. Hunt use data science. It’s a great place for those seeking a balance of work and lifestyle.
Find Data Scientist jobs in Fayetteville, AR
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $152,954
In Los Angeles, data science thrives in the entertainment and tech sectors. Companies like Disney and Netflix seek data experts. This city offers a vibrant lifestyle and diverse opportunities.
Find Data Scientist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $151,761
San Diego is a coastal tech hub. Qualcomm and Uber drive the data science demand. Working here means enjoying beautiful weather and a growing tech community.
Find Data Scientist jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $148,919
Louisville provides a balanced tech scene. Companies like Humana and Yum! Brands value data science. This city offers a mix of tradition and modern tech opportunities.
Find Data Scientist jobs in Louisville, KY
-
Austin, TX
Average Salary: $148,488
Austin is known for its tech and startup culture. Companies such as Dell and Apple look for skilled data professionals. This city combines innovation with a lively atmosphere.
Find Data Scientist jobs in Austin, TX
What are the best companies a Data Scientist can work for?

-
Netflix
Average Salary: $468,333
Netflix, a leading entertainment company, offers Data Scientist jobs with the potential to impact streaming experiences worldwide. Positions are available in major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. Here, Data Scientists help improve recommendations and content personalization.
-
Equinix
Average Salary: $355,273
Equinix specializes in data centers and connectivity solutions. Data Scientist roles at Equinix involve data analysis to enhance infrastructure and services. With offices in many global cities, these jobs offer opportunities to work in tech hubs such as San Francisco and Singapore.
-
OpenAI
Average Salary: $336,526
OpenAI focuses on artificial intelligence research. Data Scientist positions at this company allow you to contribute to cutting-edge AI projects. The company operates globally, with significant activity in cities like San Francisco and Toronto.
-
USAA
Average Salary: $232,064
USAA provides financial services to military members and their families. Data Scientist jobs here involve analyzing customer data to improve services. USAA has a strong presence in San Antonio and other key locations.
-
DCI Solutions
Average Salary: $231,818
DCI Solutions offers technology services to government agencies. Data Scientist roles focus on data analysis to support national security and defense. This company operates in Washington, D.C., and other strategic locations.
-
Whatnot
Average Salary: $214,833
Whatnot is an online marketplace for live-stream shopping. Data Scientist roles here involve analyzing consumer behavior to improve the shopping experience. The company is based in New York City and expanding rapidly.
-
Apple
Average Salary: $208,293
Apple, a tech giant, offers opportunities for Data Scientists to work on innovative products. Positions are available in cities like Cupertino and Austin. Data Scientists help improve features and user experience.
-
Genentech
Average Salary: $206,928
Genentech, a biotechnology company, seeks Data Scientists to analyze complex biological data. Locations include South San Francisco and other research hubs. Here, you contribute to groundbreaking medical research.
-
Atlassian
Average Salary: $205,414
Atlassian offers collaboration software for teams. Data Scientist roles involve improving product features through data analysis. With offices in Sydney and other global locations, these jobs offer a mix of remote and in-person work.
-
Walmart
Average Salary: $190,706
Walmart, a retail giant, employs Data Scientists to analyze sales and customer data. Positions are available in Bentonville and other major cities. Here, you help optimize operations and improve customer satisfaction.
How to earn more as a Data Scientist?
In the competitive field of data science, earning more requires a strategic approach. A data scientist can increase their salary by focusing on several key factors. Specialization in a niche area can make a candidate more valuable. For example, expertise in machine learning or big data analytics often commands higher pay. Continuous learning through courses, certifications, and hands-on projects keeps skills sharp and up-to-date. Building a strong portfolio with real-world projects showcases one's abilities to potential employers. Networking with industry professionals and attending conferences can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Lastly, negotiating salary with confidence and understanding the market rate for data scientists in your area can significantly boost earnings.
Investing time and effort into these areas can make a big difference. Each step taken towards improving skills and market presence can lead to more lucrative job offers. A data scientist who masters these factors positions themselves for long-term financial success in their career.
Here are the top factors to consider for increasing earnings as a data scientist:
- Specialization: Focus on areas like machine learning or data engineering.
- Continuous Learning: Take courses and earn certifications to stay current.
- Portfolio Development: Create a strong portfolio with real projects.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals and attend events.
- Salary Negotiation: Know the market rate and negotiate confidently.



