Data Scientist Salary in San Francisco, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Technology · COL Index: 179.6
$166,300
Median Salary
$164,690
Mean Salary
$92,595
COL-Adjusted
9,350
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $91,410 | $50,896 |
| 25th Percentile | $128,100 | $71,325 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $166,300 | $92,595 |
| 75th Percentile | $201,280 | $112,071 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $227,300 | $126,559 |
What Drives the Range
The $135,890 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Data Scientist positions in San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA's cost-of-living index of 179.6 means that a $166,300 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $92,595 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.