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 to $130,000 annually, with experienced professionals commanding $150,000 to $200,000+ depending on location, industry, and skill depth. The role demands continuous learning—your compensation reflects that investment. Senior positions in tech hubs like San Francisco and New York skew 20-30% higher, while remote-first companies increasingly match these benchmarks regardless of geography. What matters most: your ability to translate complex datasets into business decisions. Entry-level positions typically start around $90,000, but growth accelerates quickly for those who build strong machine learning fundamentals and communicate findings effectively to non-technical stakeholders. The gap between median and top-tier earners often comes down to specialization—expertise in large language models, MLOps, or causal inference commands premium pay. Ready to benchmark your market value and explore specific opportunities? Check the job listings below to see how your skills align with current openings and compensation bands.
| 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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