Data Scientist Salary in San Jose
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in San Jose, CA. Ranges from $107,000 (entry-level) to $295,000 (senior). Median: $181,000.
Median (Mid)
$181,000
$87.02/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $174,000
COL Index
178
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$295,000
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) | $107,000 | $123,000 | $147,000 | $59.13/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $147,000 | $181,000 | $214,000 | $87.02/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $208,000 | $248,000 | $295,000 | $119.23/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in San Jose
A mid-level data scientist earning $181,000 in San Jose has the same buying power as $102,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 178).
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 Jose
The median data scientist salary in San Jose, CA is $181,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 178 (national average = 100), San Jose offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level data scientists in San Jose can expect to earn between $107,000 and $147,000 (about $59.13/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $295,000 ($295K annually, or about $141.83/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 Jose.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in San Jose
What is the average Data Scientist salary in San Jose?+
The average Data Scientist salary in San Jose is $181,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $123,000 and senior-level pay reaches $248,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in San Jose?+
Entry-level data scientists in San Jose earn between $107,000 and $147,000, with a median of $123,000 per year (about $59.13/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in San Jose?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in San Jose earns roughly $59.13/hour at entry-level, $87.02/hour at mid-level, and $119.23/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in San Jose higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in San Jose are about 4% higher than the US national median of $174,000.
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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