Data · Salary Guide · Austin
Data Scientist Salary in Austin
Austin's compensation has compressed somewhat since the 2022–2023 tech relocation wave, but it remains one of the best COL-adjusted markets in the US. Base salaries are 70–80% of SF levels, but zero state income tax and housing costs roughly 45% lower than SF push effective take-home pay within 10% of SF for many roles. Tesla, Apple, Oracle, and Indeed anchor the market; a growing remote-work ecosystem means many Austin-based engineers work for out-of-state employers while paying Texas tax rates. A 1BR averages $1,650/month.
Median base in Austin
$179k
Cost of living index
115
US = 100
Market multiplier
1.05x
vs US national
Salary by experience level in Austin
| Experience level | Base salary (US national) |
|---|---|
| Entry (0–2 yrs) | $105k – $158k |
| Mid (3–5 yrs) | $142k – $210k |
| Senior (6–9 yrs) | $189k – $273k |
| Staff / Principal (10+ yrs) | $252k – $420k |
Adjusted from national ranges using the Austin market multiplier (1.05x).
Tax and take-home considerations
No state income tax. Lower COL than coastal markets boosts effective take-home pay meaningfully.
Dominant employers in Austin
Lower base salaries but strong take-home due to zero state tax and ~40% lower housing costs than SF.
FAQ
What is the average data scientist salary in Austin?
The median base salary for a data scientist in Austin is approximately $179k in 2026. Austin's compensation has compressed somewhat since the 2022–2023 tech relocation wave, but it remains one of the best COL-adjusted markets in the US.
Does Austin have state income tax for data scientists?
No state income tax. Lower COL than coastal markets boosts effective take-home pay meaningfully.
Which companies hire the most data scientists in Austin?
The dominant employers in Austin are Tesla, Apple, Oracle, Indeed, Dell. Lower base salaries but strong take-home due to zero state tax and ~40% lower housing costs than SF.
What is the average data scientist salary in the US?
As of 2026, the median US data scientist total compensation is about $170,000, with mid-level DS typically earning $135k–$200k. At Big Tech, total comp for senior and staff data scientists usually falls between $300k and $600k once equity is included.
Do data scientists make more than data analysts?
Yes, by a significant margin. Data scientists typically earn 40–80% more than data analysts at the same experience level because the role requires machine learning, production deployment, and experimentation skills. A mid-level DS commonly out-earns a senior DA by $40k–$70k.
Related Data Scientist Resources
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