Average Data Scientist Salary Overview in San Francisco
The average Data Scientist salary in San Francisco in 2026 is $188,000 per year ($15,667/month, $90.38/hour). California charges up to 13.3% state income tax.
| Level | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $128,000 | $10,666 |
| Mid-Level | $178,000 | $14,833 |
| Senior | $221,000 | $18,416 |
| Lead / Staff | $258,000 | $21,500 |
| Director | $304,000 | $25,333 |
Salary by Experience — Data Scientists in San Francisco
| Experience | Annual |
|---|---|
| 0–1 yr (Junior) | $116,560 |
| 1–3 yrs | $150,400 |
| 3–5 yrs (Mid) | $188,000 |
| 5–8 yrs | $218,079 |
| 8–12 yrs (Senior) | $240,640 |
| 12+ yrs | $278,240 |
Is $188,000 a Good Salary in San Francisco?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Monthly | $15,667 |
| Taxes (~38%) | -$5,953 |
| Take-Home Pay | $9,713 |
| Average 1BR Rent | -$3,500 |
| Remaining | $6,213 |
After rent, a Data Scientist in San Francisco earning $188,000 has approximately $6,213/month for other expenses. What Is a Good Salary in 2026?
How to Negotiate Your Data Scientist Salary in San Francisco
- Research the market. The San Francisco average for Data Scientists is $188,000. Use Glassdoor and LinkedIn Salary to validate your range.
- Negotiate total comp. Bonuses, equity, PTO, and remote flexibility add significant value beyond base pay.
- Negotiate post-offer. You have maximum leverage after the company decides it wants you — use it.
FAQ
What is the average Data Scientist salary in San Francisco?
$188,000/year as of 2026. Entry-level starts around $128,000, seniors earn $221,000+.
How much does a Data Scientist make per hour in San Francisco?
Approximately $90.38/hour based on a standard 40-hour work week at $188,000 annual salary.
Do Data Scientists get bonuses in San Francisco?
Yes — typically 5–20% of base salary depending on employer, industry, and performance.
Is San Francisco a good job market for Data Scientists?
Yes. San Francisco has growing demand across multiple sectors, with competitive compensation relative to cost of living.
Salary Data Sources
See Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn Salary.