How much does a Data Scientist make?
A Data Scientist can earn a very good living. The average yearly salary for a Data Scientist is $147,979. This career is a good choice for those who love working with data and solving problems.
To be a Data Scientist, one needs strong skills in math, statistics, and computer science. This job often pays more as a person gains more experience and skills. Those at the top of their field can make up to $254,000 a year. Here are some salary ranges for different experience levels:
- Entry-level: Around $72,400
- Mid-level: Around $121,927
- Senior-level: Around $204,473
- Principal or Director-level: Up to $254,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Data Scientist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $192,196
In San Francisco, you can find opportunities with tech giants like Salesforce and LinkedIn. The city offers a vibrant tech scene with many startups. The average salary is around $192,196.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $171,271
Seattle has a thriving tech industry with companies like Microsoft and Amazon. Professionals here enjoy a high quality of life. The average salary for this role is about $171,271.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $166,910
San Jose is home to many tech companies, including Google and Apple. Working here means being at the center of innovation. The average salary stands at about $166,910.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $154,156
San Antonio offers a mix of tech and traditional industries. Companies like AT&T and Rackspace are prominent here. The average salary is around $154,156.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $151,633
Los Angeles has a diverse job market with opportunities in tech and entertainment. Companies like Uber and Disney are hiring. The average salary is about $151,633.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $146,613
San Diego offers a strong tech scene with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms. The city’s pleasant climate makes it an attractive place to work. The average salary is around $146,613.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $145,905
Grand Rapids is seeing growth in tech with companies like Amway and Adaflex. It’s a more affordable city with many opportunities. The average salary is about $145,905.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $145,301
Sacramento offers a mix of government and tech jobs. Companies like Western Digital are present. The average salary is around $145,301.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $145,177
Austin is known for its vibrant tech scene with companies like Dell and Oracle. The city offers a great quality of life. The average salary is about $145,177.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $143,290
Albany offers a mix of government and tech jobs. The cost of living is lower here, making it attractive. The average salary is around $143,290.
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What are the best companies a Data Scientist can work for?

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Netflix
Average Salary: $458,298
Netflix is a leading entertainment company that offers a variety of TV shows, movies, and more. Data Scientists work in locations like Los Gatos, California; San Francisco, California; Seattle, Washington; and several other cities across the U.S.
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OpenAI
Average Salary: $334,032
OpenAI aims to advance AI safely. Data Scientists develop and refine AI models to push the boundaries of what is possible. The company operates in San Francisco, California, and other tech hubs.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $243,607
Intuit creates financial software for individuals and small businesses. Data Scientists analyze financial data to improve software accuracy and features. Locations include Mountain View, California, and Tempe, Arizona.
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DCI Solutions
Average Salary: $236,500
DCI Solutions provides data management services and consulting. Data Scientists work with clients to analyze data and develop insights. The company operates in Washington, D.C., and has offices in other cities.
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USAA
Average Salary: $225,562
USAA offers financial services to the military and their families. Data Scientists help improve services and products. The company has its headquarters in San Antonio, Texas, with additional locations nationwide.
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Whatnot
Average Salary: $215,682
Whatnot is an online marketplace for collectibles. Data Scientists analyze user behavior and product trends. The company is based in New York, New York, with a growing presence in other cities.
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Apple
Average Salary: $208,342
Apple designs and manufactures consumer electronics, computers, and mobile devices. Data Scientists use data to improve product design and user experience. The company is headquartered in Cupertino, California.
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Genentech
Average Salary: $205,766
Genentech is a biopharmaceutical company that develops medicines for serious conditions. Data Scientists analyze clinical trial data. The company is located in South San Francisco, California.
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goPuff
Average Salary: $203,214
goPuff delivers everyday essentials quickly. Data Scientists help optimize delivery routes and inventory management. The company is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Atlassian
Average Salary: $201,275
Atlassian creates software for teams to manage projects. Data Scientists work on improving software and user experience. The company is headquartered in Sydney, Australia, with offices in several U.S. cities.
How to earn more as a Data Scientist?
Data Scientists can find several ways to earn more in their field. By focusing on key areas, they can increase their salary and job satisfaction. Networking, gaining new skills, and choosing the right projects can make a big difference. Each step helps to improve their market value and opens up more opportunities.
To earn more, Data Scientists should consider these important factors. First, they should keep learning new skills. Staying updated with the latest tools and technologies can set them apart. Second, gaining experience in high-demand areas like machine learning and big data analytics can lead to higher-paying jobs. Third, taking on challenging projects can build a strong portfolio. Fourth, working on diverse datasets can improve problem-solving skills. Lastly, joining professional groups and attending conferences can lead to valuable connections. These efforts can lead to better job offers and salary increases.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Data Scientist:
- Learn new skills
- Gain experience in high-demand areas
- Work on challenging projects
- Work with diverse datasets
- Network with professionals



