Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Data Scientists in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $152,300 | $115,700 | $198,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $189,300 | $143,800 | $246,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $217,700 | $165,400 | $283,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $261,200 | $198,400 | $339,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $296,000 | $224,900 | $384,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Scientists — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Data Scientist salary in the Washington metro is $217,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $165,400 to $283,000 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $359,200 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC 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.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Data Scientists — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Data Scientist salary of $217,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Scientists in Washington start around $152,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $261,200 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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