Average Data Scientist Salary Overview in Houston
The average Data Scientist salary in Houston in 2026 is $128,000 per year ($10,667/month, $61.54/hour). Texas has no state income tax.
| Level | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $87,000 | $7,250 |
| Mid-Level | $121,000 | $10,083 |
| Senior | $150,000 | $12,500 |
| Lead / Staff | $176,000 | $14,666 |
| Director | $207,000 | $17,250 |
Salary by Experience — Data Scientists in Houston
| Experience | Annual |
|---|---|
| 0–1 yr (Junior) | $79,360 |
| 1–3 yrs | $102,400 |
| 3–5 yrs (Mid) | $128,000 |
| 5–8 yrs | $148,480 |
| 8–12 yrs (Senior) | $163,840 |
| 12+ yrs | $189,440 |
Is $128,000 a Good Salary in Houston?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Monthly | $10,667 |
| Taxes (~22%) | -$2,346 |
| Take-Home Pay | $8,320 |
| Average 1BR Rent | -$1,600 |
| Remaining | $6,720 |
After rent, a Data Scientist in Houston earning $128,000 has approximately $6,720/month for other expenses. What Is a Good Salary in 2026?
How to Negotiate Your Data Scientist Salary in Houston
- Research the market. The Houston average for Data Scientists is $128,000. 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 Houston?
$128,000/year as of 2026. Entry-level starts around $87,000, seniors earn $150,000+.
How much does a Data Scientist make per hour in Houston?
Approximately $61.54/hour based on a standard 40-hour work week at $128,000 annual salary.
Do Data Scientists get bonuses in Houston?
Yes — typically 5–20% of base salary depending on employer, industry, and performance.
Is Houston a good job market for Data Scientists?
Yes. Houston 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.