Data Scientist Salary in Seattle
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in Seattle, WA. Ranges from $98,000 (entry-level) to $268,000 (senior). Median: $165,000.
Median (Mid)
$165,000
$79.33/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $159,000
COL Index
155
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$268,000
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) | $98,000 | $112,000 | $134,000 | $53.85/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $134,000 | $165,000 | $195,000 | $79.33/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $189,000 | $226,000 | $268,000 | $108.65/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Seattle
A mid-level data scientist earning $165,000 in Seattle has the same buying power as $106,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 155).
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 Seattle
The median data scientist salary in Seattle, WA is $165,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 155 (national average = 100), Seattle offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level data scientists in Seattle can expect to earn between $98,000 and $134,000 (about $53.85/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $268,000 ($268K annually, or about $128.85/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 Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in Seattle
What is the average Data Scientist salary in Seattle?+
The average Data Scientist salary in Seattle is $165,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $112,000 and senior-level pay reaches $226,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in Seattle?+
Entry-level data scientists in Seattle earn between $98,000 and $134,000, with a median of $112,000 per year (about $53.85/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in Seattle?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in Seattle earns roughly $53.85/hour at entry-level, $79.33/hour at mid-level, and $108.65/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in Seattle higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in Seattle are about 4% higher than the US national median of $159,000.
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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