Data Scientist Salary in Washington D.C.
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in Washington D.C., DC. Ranges from $96,000 (entry-level) to $264,000 (senior). Median: $162,000.
Median (Mid)
$162,000
$77.88/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $156,000
COL Index
150
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$264,000
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) | $96,000 | $110,000 | $132,000 | $52.88/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $132,000 | $162,000 | $192,000 | $77.88/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $186,000 | $222,000 | $264,000 | $106.73/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Washington D.C.
A mid-level data scientist earning $162,000 in Washington D.C. has the same buying power as $108,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 150).
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 Washington D.C.
The median data scientist salary in Washington D.C., DC is $162,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 150 (national average = 100), Washington D.C. offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level data scientists in Washington D.C. can expect to earn between $96,000 and $132,000 (about $52.88/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $264,000 ($264K annually, or about $126.92/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 Washington D.C..
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in Washington D.C.
What is the average Data Scientist salary in Washington D.C.?+
The average Data Scientist salary in Washington D.C. is $162,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $110,000 and senior-level pay reaches $222,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in Washington D.C.?+
Entry-level data scientists in Washington D.C. earn between $96,000 and $132,000, with a median of $110,000 per year (about $52.88/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in Washington D.C.?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in Washington D.C. earns roughly $52.88/hour at entry-level, $77.88/hour at mid-level, and $106.73/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in Washington D.C. higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in Washington D.C. are about 4% higher than the US national median of $156,000.
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 Washington D.C.?
Get personalized AI coaching based on real market data.
Data Scientist Salaries in Other Cities
Other Roles in Washington D.C.
Know Your Worth as a Data Scientist in Washington D.C.
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