Data Scientist Salary in California
The median data scientist salary in California is $165,271 per year, which is 53.0% above the national median of $108,020.
Data Scientist Salary Overview in California (2026)
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for data scientist compensation. This places California in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for data scientists seeking high pay. At $165,271 per year, data scientists in California earn $57,251 more than the national median of $108,020.
It's worth noting that California's cost of living is 138% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $165,271 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $119,762.
The salary spread in California is significant: data scientists at the 10th percentile earn $93,942, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $272,646 — a $178,704 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in California for this role is San Francisco, where the median reaches $212,799.
Nationally, data scientist employment is projected to grow 35% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in California and beyond.
Data Scientist Salary in California by Experience
In California, an entry-level data scientist earns around $110,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $252,450 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in California
| Percentile | CA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $93,942 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,826 |
| Median (50th) | $165,271 |
| 75th Percentile | $215,730 |
| 90th Percentile | $272,646 |
Data Scientist Salary by City in California
The largest employment areas for data scientists in California include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Data Scientist in California
Education
Most data scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in California
Nationally, data scientist employment is projected to grow 35% over the next decade (much faster than average). California's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Scientists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $87,179 over your career trajectory.
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