Data has become a part of every industry, and it is driving innovation, transformation, and decision-making. Naturally, data science professionals have become frontline strategists. Their role has become a source of fascination for the new generation. Many of the young students and early professionals admire this profession and are curious to know what exactly they do, why they are talked about so much in today’s market. They have a lot of questions running in their mind like what is their contribution, what is their salary, how do they get there, etc. This blog answers all these queries and emphasizes on salaries, United States of America, in particular.
Read on to know.
What does a data scientist do?
Typically, a data scientist job profile is multi-faceted. It includes:
Apart from this, data scientists having a strong coding background develop recommendation systems, build machine leaning algorithms, and create ways for increasing web-browsing functions. Some focus on improving business strategy, while others tend to conduct research for academic journals.
They have important qualities like analytical skills, programming skills, communication skills, logical-thinking skills, mathematics skills, and problem-solving skills for their profile.
Let’s find how much does a data scientist in US earns annually here.
Data scientists’ salary in the United States
Data scientists are paid well. Glassdoor Economic Research conveys that their salary is likely to increase further in the upcoming years due to growing demand of the profession. The top paying companies include Roblox, Airbnb and StreetEasy.
Glassdoor
According to Glassdoor, a data scientist earns about $1,51,007 annually. Typically, the pay ranges between $1,19,311 and $1,93,720 annually. The known Data Scientist Salaries in 2025 is $2,40,544. These salary estimates are based on salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by data scientist employees.
Here is a list of some of the top paying industries along with their salaries.
The top 5 paying industries for a Data Scientist in United States are as follows:
Here is further breakdown.
Personal Consumer Services
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
Agriculture
Retail & Wholesale
Telecommunications
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program, about 20,800 openings are projected every year. The average annual pay for data scientists was $112,590 [May 2024].
Indeed.com
The average salary for a data scientist is $127,643/year, as per Indeed.com. [as on June 30, 2025]
Here is a breakdown of salaries as per profession.
Talent.com
On an average a Data scientist salary is $115,050 per year in the United States. The freshers generally earn $89,563 per year, while experienced professionals earn $185,125 per year.
The salary figures are undeniably attractive, isn’t it? This might have sparked an interest to pursue a career in data science. Let’s understand how to become a data scientist.
How to become a data scientist?
In general, data scientists must hold a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or business. However, many companies are preferring candidates with a master’s degree or doctoral degree over graduates.
Candidates must have excellent knowledge and practical skills in using algorithms, statistical techniques, linear algebra, calculus, database, and probability.
If you are looking for a data scientist job in specific industries, then employers may ask for experience in that field. For instance, in case of finance industry, you should have the knowledge of investments, banking, and related subject(s).
In addition to this, it is recommended to earn one of the best data science certifications to excel in the field, and stay competent by upgrading yourself periodically. Here is a list of data scientist certification along with the institute/company names.
Final thoughts:
By observing the data scientist’s salary in 2025, it is evident that there is an immense career potential in the field of data science, that too in the United States.
Data scientist certifications from well-known providers like Harvard, IBM, USDSI®, Microsoft, etc., validates your skill and expertise, while boosting credibility in the job market.
If you are looking for a career in data science, it is recommended to accelerate your career by earning certifications.
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