In Detroit, MI, Data Scientists earn a median of $96,970 a year — about 19% below the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #33.
What that pay is worth in Detroit
Local prices run 100 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $100,070 salary is about break-even with the national average ($99,773 adjusted).
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Detroit?
A typical Detroit home runs about $76,800 — 0.8 times the average Data Scientist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,034/mo takes roughly 12% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Detroit
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $59,970; the top 10% reach $138,570 — a $78,600 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Data Scientist job market in Detroit
Detroit employs roughly 2,420 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Detroit with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Detroit against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Data Scientists make in Detroit?
The average Data Scientist in Detroit, MI earns about $100,070 per year, 15.9% below the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Detroit after taxes?
After federal and MI taxes, this $100,070 salary is worth about $74,976 a year - roughly $6,248 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 25%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Detroit?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Detroit earn about $138,570 a year, versus about $59,970 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Detroit?
A typical Detroit home runs about $76,800 - roughly 0.8x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.