In Seattle, WA, Data Scientists earn a median of $135,610 a year — about 14% above the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #5.
What that pay is worth in Seattle
Local prices run 111 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $151,320 salary buys less than it looks — about $136,161 in national-average buying power.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Seattle?
A typical Seattle home runs about $912,100 — 6.0 times the average Data Scientist salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,998/mo takes roughly 16% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Seattle
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $76,940; the top 10% reach $233,960 — a $157,020 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 Seattle
Seattle employs roughly 4,810 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Seattle with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Seattle 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 Seattle?
The average Data Scientist in Seattle, WA earns about $151,320 per year, 27.1% above the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Seattle after taxes?
After federal and WA taxes, this $151,320 salary is worth about $114,693 a year - roughly $9,557 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 24%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Seattle?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Seattle earn about $233,960 a year, versus about $76,940 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Seattle?
A typical Seattle home runs about $912,100 - roughly 6.0x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.