Data Scientist Salary in San Diego
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in San Diego, CA. Ranges from $90,000 (entry-level) to $246,000 (senior). Median: $151,000.
Median (Mid)
$151,000
$72.6/hr
vs National
+3%
US: $146,000
COL Index
140
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$246,000
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) | $90,000 | $103,000 | $123,000 | $49.52/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $123,000 | $151,000 | $179,000 | $72.6/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $174,000 | $207,000 | $246,000 | $99.52/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in San Diego
A mid-level data scientist earning $151,000 in San Diego has the same buying power as $108,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 140).
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 San Diego
The median data scientist salary in San Diego, CA is $151,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 3% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 140 (national average = 100), San Diego offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level data scientists in San Diego can expect to earn between $90,000 and $123,000 (about $49.52/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $246,000 ($246K annually, or about $118.27/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 San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in San Diego
What is the average Data Scientist salary in San Diego?+
The average Data Scientist salary in San Diego is $151,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $103,000 and senior-level pay reaches $207,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in San Diego?+
Entry-level data scientists in San Diego earn between $90,000 and $123,000, with a median of $103,000 per year (about $49.52/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in San Diego?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in San Diego earns roughly $49.52/hour at entry-level, $72.6/hour at mid-level, and $99.52/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in San Diego higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in San Diego are about 3% higher than the US national median of $146,000.
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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