Data Scientist Salary in Houston
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in Houston, TX. Ranges from $79,000 (entry-level) to $218,000 (senior). Median: $134,000.
Median (Mid)
$134,000
$64.42/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $129,000
COL Index
102
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$218,000
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) | $79,000 | $91,000 | $109,000 | $43.75/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $109,000 | $134,000 | $158,000 | $64.42/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $153,000 | $183,000 | $218,000 | $87.98/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Houston
A mid-level data scientist earning $134,000 in Houston has the same buying power as $131,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 102).
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 Houston
The median data scientist salary in Houston, TX is $134,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 102 (national average = 100), Houston offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level data scientists in Houston can expect to earn between $79,000 and $109,000 (about $43.75/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $218,000 ($218K annually, or about $104.81/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 Houston.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in Houston
What is the average Data Scientist salary in Houston?+
The average Data Scientist salary in Houston is $134,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $91,000 and senior-level pay reaches $183,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in Houston?+
Entry-level data scientists in Houston earn between $79,000 and $109,000, with a median of $91,000 per year (about $43.75/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in Houston?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in Houston earns roughly $43.75/hour at entry-level, $64.42/hour at mid-level, and $87.98/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in Houston higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in Houston are about 4% higher than the US national median of $129,000.
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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