In Indianapolis, IN, Data Scientists earn a median of $81,510 a year — about 32% below the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #49.
What that pay is worth in Indianapolis
Local prices run 96 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $89,980 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $94,027 in national-average buying power.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Indianapolis?
A typical Indianapolis home runs about $207,000 — 2.3 times the average Data Scientist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,112/mo takes roughly 15% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Indianapolis
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $53,640; the top 10% reach $126,990 — a $73,350 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 Indianapolis
Indianapolis employs roughly 1,170 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Indianapolis with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis?
The average Data Scientist in Indianapolis, IN earns about $89,980 per year, 24.4% below the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Indianapolis after taxes?
After federal and IN taxes, this $89,980 salary is worth about $69,476 a year - roughly $5,789 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Indianapolis?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Indianapolis earn about $126,990 a year, versus about $53,640 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Indianapolis?
A typical Indianapolis home runs about $207,000 - roughly 2.3x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.