In Oakland, CA, Data Scientists earn a median of $163,430 a year — about 37% above the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #2.
What that pay is worth in Oakland
Local prices run 116 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $158,940 salary buys less than it looks — about $137,476 in national-average buying power.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Oakland
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $83,130; the top 10% reach $218,560 — a $135,430 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 Oakland
Oakland employs roughly 8,870 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Oakland with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Oakland 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 Oakland?
The average Data Scientist in Oakland, CA earns about $158,940 per year, 33.5% above the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Oakland after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $158,940 salary is worth about $109,196 a year - roughly $9,099 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 31%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Oakland?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Oakland earn about $218,560 a year, versus about $83,130 for the bottom 10%.