Data Scientist Salary in Boston
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in Boston, MA. Ranges from $94,000 (entry-level) to $260,000 (senior). Median: $159,000.
Median (Mid)
$159,000
$76.44/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $153,000
COL Index
145
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$260,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $94,000 | $109,000 | $130,000 | $52.4/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $130,000 | $159,000 | $189,000 | $76.44/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $183,000 | $218,000 | $260,000 | $104.81/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Boston
A mid-level data scientist earning $159,000 in Boston has the same buying power as $110,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 145).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Data Scientist Salaries in Boston
The median data scientist salary in Boston, MA is $159,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 145 (national average = 100), Boston offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level data scientists in Boston can expect to earn between $94,000 and $130,000 (about $52.4/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $260,000 ($260K annually, or about $125/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Boston.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in Boston
What is the average Data Scientist salary in Boston?+
The average Data Scientist salary in Boston is $159,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $109,000 and senior-level pay reaches $218,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in Boston?+
Entry-level data scientists in Boston earn between $94,000 and $130,000, with a median of $109,000 per year (about $52.4/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in Boston?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in Boston earns roughly $52.4/hour at entry-level, $76.44/hour at mid-level, and $104.81/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in Boston higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in Boston are about 4% higher than the US national median of $153,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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