Median data scientist salary in United Kingdom is £80k. Junior roles (0–2 years) start at £50k; senior roles (7+ years) reach £140k+. Numbers reflect 2026 UK market data.
Data Scientists in the United Kingdom earn between £45,000 and £85,000 annually, with London-based roles commanding premiums of 15–20% above regional averages. Your salary depends heavily on experience: junior positions start around £40,000, mid-level roles cluster at £55,000–£65,000, and senior specialists with 7+ years reach £80,000+. Tech hubs like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh offer the most competitive packages, though remote work has flattened geographic pay gaps. The demand for Python, SQL, and machine learning expertise remains high, giving you negotiating power—especially if you hold relevant certifications or demonstrate portfolio work. Benefits often include pension contributions, flexible working, and professional development budgets, which can add £5,000–£10,000 to your effective compensation. Ready to explore specific roles? Below you'll find current UK Data Scientist positions matched to salary bands and experience levels.
| Level | Years | Salary (median) | 10th–90th percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0–2 | £50k | £43k – £60k |
| Mid-level | 3–6 | £80k | £68k – £96k |
| Senior | 7+ | £140k | £119k – £196k |
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