Data Scientist Salary in Columbus
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in Columbus, OH. Ranges from $74,000 (entry-level) to $205,000 (senior). Median: $126,000.
Median (Mid)
$126,000
$60.58/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $121,000
COL Index
95
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$205,000
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) | $74,000 | $86,000 | $102,000 | $41.35/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $102,000 | $126,000 | $149,000 | $60.58/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $144,000 | $172,000 | $205,000 | $82.69/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Columbus
A mid-level data scientist earning $126,000 in Columbus has the same buying power as $133,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 95).
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 Columbus
The median data scientist salary in Columbus, OH is $126,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 95 (national average = 100), Columbus offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level data scientists in Columbus can expect to earn between $74,000 and $102,000 (about $41.35/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $205,000 ($205K annually, or about $98.56/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 Columbus.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in Columbus
What is the average Data Scientist salary in Columbus?+
The average Data Scientist salary in Columbus is $126,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $86,000 and senior-level pay reaches $172,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in Columbus?+
Entry-level data scientists in Columbus earn between $74,000 and $102,000, with a median of $86,000 per year (about $41.35/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in Columbus?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in Columbus earns roughly $41.35/hour at entry-level, $60.58/hour at mid-level, and $82.69/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in Columbus higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in Columbus are about 4% higher than the US national median of $121,000.
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.
Negotiating a Data Scientist offer in Columbus?
Get personalized AI coaching based on real market data.
Data Scientist Salaries in Other Cities
Other Roles in Columbus
Know Your Worth as a Data Scientist in Columbus
You now have the data. Use our free AI negotiation coach to turn it into a strategy — get scripts, market context, and expert tactics for your specific situation.
Free · No signup · Instant answers