Salary Guide 2026

Data Scientist Salary in Los Angeles

Average salary range: $112,125 - $186,875 per year

Data Scientist pay in Los Angeles typically lands around $149,500 (roughly $112,125–$186,875). Los Angeles cost-of-living index is about 148 vs a US 100 baseline. Housing is expensive relative to many non-tech salaries; CA tax applies. Local demand clusters around entertainment and logistics — employers such as Disney and SpaceX set a lot of the comps. Studio and aerospace roles are often on-site; tech is mixed hybrid. This 2026 guide breaks compensation by level, what actually moves offers, and how to negotiate without guessing.

Salary Breakdown

25th Percentile

$131K

Median

$150K

75th Percentile

$168K

Top Earners

$187K+

$112K$150K (median)$187K

Factors That Affect Data Scientist Salary in Los Angeles

Experience Level

Entry-level: -20%, Mid-level: baseline, Senior: +30-50%, Lead/Manager: +50-80%

Company Size & Type

Big Tech & Finance typically pay 20-40% above market. Startups may offer equity compensation.

Cost of Living

Los Angeles COL index is about 148 (US 100). Housing is expensive relative to many non-tech salaries; CA tax applies. Local demand clusters around entertainment and logistics (Disney, SpaceX).

Skills That Increase Data Scientist Salary

Python

SQL

Machine Learning

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Pandas

Scikit-learn

Statistics

Deep Learning

How to Negotiate Your Data Scientist Salary in Los Angeles

Anchor with Los Angeles comps, not a national average that ignores COL index 148
Know your worth based on skills such as Python, R, SQL
Let the employer make the first offer when possible
Negotiate total compensation, not just base salary
Be prepared to walk away if the offer doesn't meet your minimum
Get any verbal offers in writing before accepting
Consider timing—negotiate after receiving the offer but before accepting
Practice your negotiation pitch beforehand

Data Scientist Job Market Outlook in Los Angeles

Demand for Data Scientists in Los Angeles into 2026 tracks entertainment and logistics. Studio and aerospace roles are often on-site; tech is mixed hybrid.

The career trajectory for Data Scientists in Los Angeles still supports 5–10% annual movement early on, with larger jumps into senior or lead seats—especially in entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles?

The average Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles is approximately $149,500 per year. Salaries range from $112,125 for entry-level positions to $186,875+ for senior roles with specialized skills.

Is Los Angeles a good city for Data Scientist jobs?

Los Angeles offers competitive salaries for Data Scientist positions. Consider the cost of living, job market size, industry presence, and quality of life when evaluating opportunities in Los Angeles.

How does Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles compare to other cities?

Data Scientist salaries in Los Angeles are among the highest compared to national averages. Major tech hubs like San Francisco and New York typically offer higher salaries but also have higher costs of living.

What factors affect Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles?

Key factors include: years of experience, specialized skills and certifications, company size and industry, education level, negotiation skills, and current market demand. Remote work has also impacted salary expectations in many markets. In Los Angeles, also weigh COL index 148 and entertainment demand.

How can I negotiate a higher Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles?

Research market rates using multiple sources, quantify your achievements, highlight specialized skills, consider total compensation (equity, benefits, bonuses), be prepared to walk away, and practice your negotiation pitch. Timing matters - negotiate after receiving the offer but before accepting. In Los Angeles, also weigh COL index 148 and entertainment demand.

What is the entry-level Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles?

Entry-level Data Scientist positions in Los Angeles typically start around $95,306.25 to $112,125 per year. This can vary based on education, internship experience, and the hiring company.

What is the senior Data Scientist salary in Los Angeles?

Senior Data Scientist professionals in Los Angeles can earn $168,187.5 to $186,875+ per year. Lead and principal-level roles may exceed these figures, especially at top companies.

Do Data Scientists get bonuses in Los Angeles?

Many Data Scientist positions in Los Angeles include bonuses as part of compensation. Typical bonus structures include annual performance bonuses (10-20% of salary), signing bonuses, and profit-sharing. Tech companies may also offer equity compensation.