Data Scientist Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Technology · COL Index: 160.2
$127,200
Median Salary
$131,190
Mean Salary
$79,401
COL-Adjusted
2,550
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $69,920 | $43,645 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,590 | $51,554 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $127,200 | $79,401 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,600 | $102,122 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $205,700 | $128,402 |
What Drives the Range
The $135,780 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Data Scientist positions in San Diego, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Diego, CA's cost-of-living index of 160.2 means that a $127,200 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $79,401 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.