How Much Do Data Scientists Make?
$103,500median annual salary
$49.76/hour · $8,625/month · BLS Code: 15-2051
Data scientists analyze complex datasets using statistics, machine learning, and programming to extract insights and inform business decisions. The role has been called 'the sexiest job of the 21st century' by Harvard Business Review and consistently ranks among the highest-paying and most in-demand tech careers.
Data Scientist Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$65,000
Starting salary
Median
$103,500
50th percentile
Senior Level
$167,040
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$174,790
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Data Scientists
#1
California
$140,950
#2
Washington
$135,670
#3
New York
$130,440
#4
Virginia
$125,610
#5
Massachusetts
$123,200
Top Paying Cities for Data Scientists
Education & Requirements
Education
Bachelor's degree minimum (CS, statistics, math); master's degree preferred by many employers
Typical Degree
Master's in Data Science, CS, or Statistics
Certifications
Job Outlook
+35%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
192,700
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Data Scientist Salary FAQ
How much do data scientists make?
The median salary is about $103,500. Senior data scientists at FAANG companies earn $180,000-$350,000+ including stock compensation. The field has some of the highest starting salaries in tech.
Is data science a good career in 2026?
Yes. With 35% projected growth (much faster than average) and strong salaries, data science remains one of the best careers in tech. AI/ML skills are especially valuable.
Do you need a master's degree for data science?
Not always, but it helps significantly. About 40% of data scientist job postings prefer or require a master's degree. Self-taught candidates can break in through bootcamps and strong portfolios.
What programming languages do data scientists use?
Python is the most popular (used by 90%+ of data scientists), followed by SQL and R. Familiarity with tools like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP) is increasingly expected.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.