Data Scientist Salary Reality — What You Actually Take Home
Data scientists use statistical analysis, machine learning, and programming to extract insights and build predictive models from large datasets.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFJob outlook: Much faster than average (36% growth 2024-2034)
Take-home reality
A data scientist earning the national median of $126,800 takes home approximately $8,118/month in a no-tax state and $7,136/month in a high-tax state like California.
The salary reality
A data scientist earning the national median of $126,800 has strong purchasing power across most cities, with significant remote work flexibility common in this field.
Where Data Scientist Salary Goes Furthest
Where Data Scientist Salary Is Most Stretched
Housing context
At median salary, data scientists can comfortably afford the median 1BR in most cities, with tech-hub cities requiring higher salaries for equivalent comfort.
Career context
Data science is one of the fastest-growing fields with strong remote work culture — many data scientists optimize for cost of living rather than employer location.
Income Reality Score — Austin (best for this career)
Purchasing Power Reality
What a data scientist salary feels like in other cities
Data Scientist Salary — FAQ
What is the average data scientist salary?
The national median is $126,800 per BLS OEWS May 2025, one of the highest-growth occupations tracked.
Do data scientists need a PhD?
Not always. Many data scientists hold master's degrees, though research-focused roles at top tech companies often prefer PhDs.
Salary data: BLS OEWS May 2025. This is a picture, not a verdict.