The average salary for a Data Scientist in the US is $140,000 per year.
Data Scientists analyze complex datasets, build predictive models, and help organizations make data-driven decisions. In the US, this role is highly valued across technology companies, healthcare systems, finance firms, retail organizations, and AI-driven startups. Salaries vary based on modeling expertise, business impact, and ability to deploy production-ready solutions. Professionals who translate data insights into measurable business growth often earn higher compensation.
Salary Statistics: Data Scientist (US)
| Salary Type | Annual Pay (USD) |
|---|---|
| Average Salary | $140,000 |
| Median Salary | $135,000 |
| Lowest Salary | $100,000 |
| Highest Salary | $210,000 |
Gender Pay Analysis in Data Scientist
Gender pay differences for Data Scientists in the US are influenced by specialization, years of experience, and leadership responsibilities.
| Gender | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Compared to National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Male | $144,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Female | $136,000 | ▼ −3% |
| Non-binary / Not Disclosed | $140,000 | ▲ +0% |
Pay gaps often reduce at senior levels where compensation is tied to measurable impact and research innovation.
Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level
Entry-level Data Scientists in the US typically earn around $100,000 per year. These roles focus on data cleaning, model development, and supporting analytics projects. Most professionals at this level have 0–2 years of experience. Strong statistical and programming skills are essential for growth.
Mid-Level
Mid-level Data Scientists usually earn between $120,000 and $170,000 per year. At this stage, professionals deploy models, conduct advanced analysis, and collaborate with business teams. This level commonly requires 3–6 years of experience. Expertise in machine learning and cloud-based tools significantly increases earning potential.
Senior Level
Senior Data Scientists earn $190,000 or more per year, with top roles reaching $210,000 in large US organizations. These professionals lead data strategy, design advanced algorithms, and mentor junior analysts. Compensation reflects responsibility for high-impact data initiatives.
Certifications for Data Scientist
- Google Professional Data Engineer
- AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)
- TensorFlow Developer Certificate
Key Skills That Impact Salary
- Statistical modeling
- Machine learning algorithms
- Python and R programming
- Data visualization
- Big data tools (Spark, Hadoop)
- Cloud analytics platforms
Best-paying cities for Data Scientist in the US
| City | Avg Salary (USD) | Compared to National Salary ($140,000) |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $165,000 | ▲ +18% |
| New York, NY | $154,000 | ▲ +10% |
| Seattle, WA | $150,000 | ▲ +7% |
| Boston, MA | $144,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Austin, TX | $134,000 | ▼ −4% |
| Atlanta, GA | $127,000 | ▼ −9% |
| Dallas, TX | $126,000 | ▼ −10% |
| Remote (US) | $141,000 | ▲ +1% |
| Chicago, IL | $130,000 | ▼ −7% |
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Future Outlook for Data Scientist Compensation
As organizations continue investing in data-driven strategies and artificial intelligence, demand for skilled Data Scientists remains strong. Professionals who combine advanced analytics with business understanding are expected to see continued salary growth in the US market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is $140,000 a good salary for a Data Scientist?
Yes, $140,000 is competitive for mid-level Data Scientist roles depending on industry and experience.
Can Data Scientists earn over $180,000?
Yes, senior-level Data Scientists and AI specialists can exceed $180,000 annually.
Do certifications increase Data Scientist salary?
Certifications improve credibility, but hands-on project experience has a stronger impact on compensation.
Are remote Data Scientist roles common?
Yes, many Data Scientist positions are remote or hybrid.
Which industries pay Data Scientists the most?
Technology, finance, healthcare, and AI-focused companies typically offer higher salaries.
How long does it take to become a senior Data Scientist?
It usually takes 6–10 years of experience in data science and analytics roles.
Is Data Science a stable career in the US?
Yes, as businesses increasingly rely on data, demand for Data Scientists remains strong and stable.
