Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Data Scientists in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $146,900 | $111,600 | $191,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $182,600 | $138,700 | $237,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $209,900 | $159,500 | $272,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $251,800 | $191,400 | $327,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $285,400 | $216,900 | $371,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Scientists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Data Scientist salary in the San Diego metro is $209,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $159,500 to $272,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $346,400 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -13% relative to the California 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.
San Diego vs. national: +35%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Data Scientists — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Data Scientist salary of $209,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Scientists in San Diego start around $146,900, while seniors (10+ years) reach $251,800 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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