Salary Guide 2026

Data Scientist Salary in Minneapolis

Average salary range: $96,525 - $160,875 per year

COL changes the lifestyle math. A higher median in an expensive city isn't always a raise. Data Scientist pay in Minneapolis typically lands around $128,700 (roughly $96,525–$160,875). Minneapolis cost-of-living index is about 98 vs a US 100 baseline. MN tax is higher than many Midwest peers; housing is moderate. Local demand clusters around healthcare and retail — employers such as UnitedHealth and Target set a lot of the comps. Corporate hybrid is common. This 2026 guide breaks compensation by level, what actually moves offers, and how to negotiate without guessing.

Salary Breakdown

25th Percentile

$113K

Median

$129K

75th Percentile

$145K

Top Earners

$161K+

$97K$129K (median)$161K

Factors That Affect Data Scientist Salary in Minneapolis

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

Minneapolis COL index is about 98 (US 100). MN tax is higher than many Midwest peers; housing is moderate. Local demand clusters around healthcare and retail (UnitedHealth, Target).

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 Minneapolis

Anchor with Minneapolis comps, not a national average that ignores COL index 98
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 Minneapolis

Demand for Data Scientists in Minneapolis into 2026 tracks healthcare and retail. Corporate hybrid is common.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Data Scientist salary in Minneapolis?

The average Data Scientist salary in Minneapolis is approximately $128,700 per year. Salaries range from $96,525 for entry-level positions to $160,875+ for senior roles with specialized skills.

Is Minneapolis a good city for Data Scientist jobs?

Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis.

How does Data Scientist salary in Minneapolis compare to other cities?

Data Scientist salaries in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis, also weigh COL index 98 and healthcare demand.

How can I negotiate a higher Data Scientist salary in Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis, also weigh COL index 98 and healthcare demand.

What is the entry-level Data Scientist salary in Minneapolis?

Entry-level Data Scientist positions in Minneapolis typically start around $82,046.25 to $96,525 per year. This can vary based on education, internship experience, and the hiring company.

What is the senior Data Scientist salary in Minneapolis?

Senior Data Scientist professionals in Minneapolis can earn $144,787.5 to $160,875+ per year. Lead and principal-level roles may exceed these figures, especially at top companies.

Do Data Scientists get bonuses in Minneapolis?

Many Data Scientist positions in Minneapolis 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.