Median data scientist salary in United States is $170k. Junior roles (0–2 years) start at $120k; senior roles (7+ years) reach $260k+. Numbers reflect 2026 US market data.
Data scientists in the United States earn a median salary of $120,000 annually, with experienced professionals commanding $150,000–$180,000 or more depending on location and specialization. The salary gap exists because many organizations still undervalue data science roles or misclassify them, leaving qualified candidates underpaid relative to their impact. If you're entering this field, understand that your compensation reflects not just your technical skills but your ability to communicate business value—companies paying top dollar expect you to drive measurable outcomes, not just build models. Geographic factors matter significantly; tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle offer 20–30% premiums over midwest markets. Experience, advanced degrees, and domain expertise (finance, healthcare, tech) typically command higher rates. The market remains competitive but shows signs of stabilization after recent corrections. Ready to explore specific opportunities and what hiring managers are actually looking for?
| Level | Years | Salary (median) | 10th–90th percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0–2 | $120k | $102k – $144k |
| Mid-level | 3–6 | $170k | $145k – $204k |
| Senior | 7+ | $260k | $221k – $364k |
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