In Washington, DC, Data Scientists earn a median of $135,080 a year — about 13% above the U.S. median of $119,040. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #6.
What that pay is worth in Washington
Local prices run 109 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $139,080 salary buys less than it looks — about $127,732 in national-average buying power.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Washington?
A typical Washington home runs about $724,600 — 5.2 times the average Data Scientist salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,900/mo takes roughly 16% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Data Scientist pay ladder in Washington
Entry-level (10th percentile) Data Scientists earn about $74,840; the top 10% reach $209,410 — a $134,570 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 Washington
Washington employs roughly 6,840 Data Scientists. Metro unemployment sits near 4.3%, a fairly balanced hiring market.
Compare Washington with other cities
See the full Data Scientist salary by city ranking to weigh Washington 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 Washington?
The average Data Scientist in Washington, DC earns about $139,080 per year, 16.8% above the national average of $119,040.
What is the take-home pay for Data Scientists in Washington after taxes?
After federal and DC taxes, this $139,080 salary is worth about $97,473 a year - roughly $8,122 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 30%.
What do the highest-paid Data Scientists earn in Washington?
The top 10% of Data Scientists in Washington earn about $209,410 a year, versus about $74,840 for the bottom 10%.
Can Data Scientists afford a home in Washington?
A typical Washington home runs about $724,600 - roughly 5.2x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.