Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Data Scientists in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $115,700 | $87,900 | $150,500 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $143,800 | $109,300 | $187,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $165,400 | $125,700 | $215,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $198,400 | $150,800 | $258,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $224,900 | $170,900 | $292,500 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Scientists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Data Scientist salary in the Houston metro is $165,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $125,700 to $215,100 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $273,000 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -1% relative to the Texas 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.
Houston vs. national: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for Data Scientists. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median Data Scientist salary of $165,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Scientists in Houston start around $115,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $198,400 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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