In Raleigh, NC, Data Scientists earn a median of $126,950 a year — about 7% above the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #10.
What that pay is worth in Raleigh
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $128,490 salary is about break-even with the national average ($130,903 adjusted).
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 — 2.9 times the average Data Scientist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,468/mo takes roughly 14% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Raleigh
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $66,550; the top 10% reach $195,560 — a $129,010 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 Raleigh
Raleigh employs roughly 1,250 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Raleigh with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
The average Data Scientist in Raleigh, NC earns about $128,490 per year, 7.9% above the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Raleigh after taxes?
After federal and NC taxes, this $128,490 salary is worth about $94,470 a year - roughly $7,872 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 26%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Raleigh?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Raleigh earn about $195,560 a year, versus about $66,550 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - roughly 2.9x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.