As data science continues to be a critical function for organizations, compensation for skilled professionals will remain competitive in 2025. Here are Smith Hanley’s 2025 data science salaries for various roles, including leadership positions.
Entry-Level Data Scientist (0-2 years of experience)
Entry-level data scientists in 2025 will earn between $80,000 and $100,000 annually. These professionals will focus on data preprocessing, exploratory analysis, and building basic predictive models under the guidance of more senior team members.
Mid-Level Data Scientist (3-5 years of experience)
Mid-level data scientists can expect 2025 data science salaries ranging from $100,000 to $135,000. With a few years of experience, these professionals will handle more complex modeling tasks, contribute to research and development, and play an active role in deploying models into production.
Senior Data Scientist (5-8 years of experience)
Senior data scientists in 2025 can command salaries between $135,000 and $170,000. They will be expected to lead projects, mentor junior staff, and handle high-impact, mission-critical modeling efforts. In addition, they may oversee AI model governance and ethical considerations within their teams.
Lead/Principal Data Scientist (8+ years of experience)
Lead and principal data scientists, who are responsible for designing and executing large-scale data science strategies, will see 2025 data science salaries ranging from $170,000 to $220,000+. These professionals will also have a significant role in cross-functional collaboration and aligning data science initiatives with broader business goals.
Data Science Manager/Director
Data science leadership roles will see compensation anywhere from $180,000 to $250,000 depending on the company and location. These professionals will manage data science teams, ensure alignment with organizational goals, and work closely with senior leadership to drive data initiatives across the business.
Chief Data Scientist (C-suite)
In 2025 data science salaries for chief data scientists or data science VPs, who play a pivotal role in shaping an organization’s data strategy, can expect to earn $250,000 to $350,000+ annually, with potential for bonuses and equity compensation. These executives will set the vision for AI and data science across the company, ensuring that data-driven decisions are embedded in business operations at the highest level.
As discussed in our blog, 2025 Data Science Trends, the data science field will continue to grow and evolve as AI, automation, and ethical considerations take center stage. Professionals in the field will not only need to stay on top of the latest technologies but also be strategic contributors to business decision-making. With competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities, data science remains one of the most dynamic and rewarding fields in the modern workforce.
