Biotech, top universities, finance — knowledge economy capital. Here's how Data Scientists in Boston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Boston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $144,900 | $110,100 | $188,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $180,100 | $136,900 | $234,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $207,100 | $157,400 | $269,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $248,500 | $188,800 | $323,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $281,600 | $214,000 | $366,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Scientists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Boston metro economy.
The average Data Scientist salary in the Boston metro is $207,100 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $157,400 to $269,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $341,700 or more.
Yes — Boston pays +2% relative to the Massachusetts state median for Data Scientists. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Boston vs. national: +33%. That puts Boston among the stronger US markets for Data Scientists — though cost of living in Boston is also typically elevated.
In Boston, the median Data Scientist salary of $207,100 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Scientists in Boston start around $144,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $248,500 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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