Average Data Scientist Salary Overview in Los Angeles
The average Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles in 2026 is $162,000 per year ($13,500/month, $77.88/hour). California charges up to 13.3% state income tax.
| Level | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $110,000 | $9,166 |
| Mid-Level | $154,000 | $12,833 |
| Senior | $190,000 | $15,833 |
| Lead / Staff | $222,000 | $18,500 |
| Director | $261,000 | $21,750 |
Salary by Experience — Data Scientists in Los Angeles
| Experience | Annual |
|---|---|
| 0–1 yr (Junior) | $100,440 |
| 1–3 yrs | $129,600 |
| 3–5 yrs (Mid) | $162,000 |
| 5–8 yrs | $187,920 |
| 8–12 yrs (Senior) | $207,360 |
| 12+ yrs | $239,760 |
Is $162,000 a Good Salary in Los Angeles?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Monthly | $13,500 |
| Taxes (~35%) | -$4,725 |
| Take-Home Pay | $8,775 |
| Average 1BR Rent | -$2,900 |
| Remaining | $5,875 |
After rent, a Data Scientist in Los Angeles earning $162,000 has approximately $5,875/month for other expenses. What Is a Good Salary in 2026?
How to Negotiate Your Data Scientist Salary in Los Angeles
- Research the market. The Los Angeles average for Data Scientists is $162,000. 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 Los Angeles?
$162,000/year as of 2026. Entry-level starts around $110,000, seniors earn $190,000+.
How much does a Data Scientist make per hour in Los Angeles?
Approximately $77.88/hour based on a standard 40-hour work week at $162,000 annual salary.
Do Data Scientists get bonuses in Los Angeles?
Yes — typically 5–20% of base salary depending on employer, industry, and performance.
Is Los Angeles a good job market for Data Scientists?
Yes. Los Angeles 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.