In San Diego, CA, Data Scientists earn a median of $127,300 a year — about 7% above the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #9.
What that pay is worth in San Diego
Local prices run 112 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $130,650 salary buys less than it looks — about $116,770 in national-average buying power.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in San Diego?
A typical San Diego home runs about $848,500 — 6.5 times the average Data Scientist salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $2,223/mo takes roughly 20% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in San Diego
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $69,430; the top 10% reach $197,630 — a $128,200 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 San Diego
San Diego employs roughly 2,340 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare San Diego with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh San Diego 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 San Diego?
The average Data Scientist in San Diego, CA earns about $130,650 per year, 9.8% above the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in San Diego after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $130,650 salary is worth about $92,491 a year - roughly $7,707 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 29%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in San Diego?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in San Diego earn about $197,630 a year, versus about $69,430 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in San Diego?
A typical San Diego home runs about $848,500 - roughly 6.5x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.