Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing — no state income tax. Here's how Data Scientists in Seattle get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Seattle metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $152,800 | $116,100 | $198,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $189,900 | $144,300 | $246,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $218,300 | $165,900 | $283,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $261,900 | $199,000 | $340,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $296,800 | $225,600 | $385,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Scientists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Seattle metro economy.
The average Data Scientist salary in the Seattle metro is $218,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $165,900 to $283,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $360,200 or more.
Yes — Seattle pays -1% relative to the Washington 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.
Seattle vs. national: +40%. That puts Seattle among the stronger US markets for Data Scientists — though cost of living in Seattle is also typically elevated.
In Seattle, the median Data Scientist salary of $218,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Scientists in Seattle start around $152,800, while seniors (10+ years) reach $261,900 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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