In Tucson, AZ, Data Scientists earn a median of $95,960 a year — about 19% below the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #34.
What that pay is worth in Tucson
Local prices run 97 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $99,470 salary stretches further than the sticker number — about $102,656 in national-average buying power.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Tucson?
A typical Tucson home runs about $242,200 — 2.4 times the average Data Scientist salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,079/mo takes roughly 13% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Tucson
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $58,850; the top 10% reach $137,240 — a $78,390 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 Tucson
Tucson employs roughly 310 Data Scientists. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Tucson with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Tucson 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 Tucson?
The average Data Scientist in Tucson, AZ earns about $99,470 per year, 16.4% below the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Tucson after taxes?
After federal and AZ taxes, this $99,470 salary is worth about $76,529 a year - roughly $6,377 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 23%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Tucson?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Tucson earn about $137,240 a year, versus about $58,850 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Tucson?
A typical Tucson home runs about $242,200 - roughly 2.4x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.