Data Scientist Salary in Raleigh, NC: $110,041 (2024)
Official 2024 BLS Data | $52.90/hour | $68,936 - $164,694 range
Median Annual Salary
$110,041
Hourly Rate
$52.90
/hour
Jobs in Area
137
employed
Compare to Other Cities
See All →Raleigh, NC
$110,041
San Jose, CA
$148,412
in San Jose, CA
Data Scientist Salary Range in Raleigh, NC
Annual Salary Range
$69k
10th percentile
$88k
25th
$130k
75th
$165k
90th percentile
Salary Breakdown by Percentile
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $68,936 | $33.14 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,604 | $42.12 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $110,041 | $52.90 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,158 | $62.58 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $164,694 | $79.18 |
| Average (Mean) | $120,270 | $57.82 |
Data Scientist Market Insights for Raleigh, NC
Compensation Overview
Data Scientist compensation in Raleigh, NC aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $68,936 to $164,694 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.
Local Market Context
Raleigh, NC offers competitive compensation that aligns closely with national benchmarks. The North Carolina economy supports a diverse range of industries, providing stable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Career Outlook
The Data Scientist profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 139% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.
Tips for Increasing Your Salary
- •Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 50% more than median salaries
- •Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
- •Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise
+2%
vs National Avg
+1%
vs State Avg
139%
Salary Range
137
Jobs in Area
Career Path & Salary Progression
Typical Data Scientist salary growth in Raleigh, NC based on experience level.
Entry Level
0-2 years10th percentile
$68,936
/year
Early Career
2-5 years25th percentile
$87,604
/year
Mid Career
5-10 years50th percentile
$110,041
/year
Senior
10-15 years75th percentile
$130,158
/year
Expert
15+ years90th percentile
$164,694
/year
Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.
Data Scientist Job Market in Raleigh, NC
Where Data Scientists Work
Data Scientists work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.
Local Employment Landscape
Employment in this occupation is more limited in Raleigh, NC compared to larger metros. Professionals may find opportunities concentrated among fewer employers, making employer research and networking particularly valuable.
Types of Employers Hiring
Large Corporations
Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential
Small to Medium Businesses
May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities
Government Agencies
Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance
Professional Services Firms
Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers
Skills That Increase Earning Potential
Job Search Strategy for Raleigh, NC
- •Research major employers in the Raleigh-Cary area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
- •Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to North Carolina
- •Tailor your salary expectations based on the Raleigh, NC market rate of $110,041
- •Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $68,936 in this market
Data Scientist Career Overview in Raleigh, NC
The job market for Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC is emerging, with approximately 137 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Data Scientist positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Raleigh, NC. Compensation aligns closely with national benchmarks, indicating a balanced supply-demand dynamic in this market.
Raleigh, NC's diverse economy supports technology roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in North Carolina range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.
The growth outlook for Data Scientist positions in Raleigh, NC is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 137 current positions and a median salary of $110,041, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Raleigh, NC's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Data Scientists will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.
Raleigh, NC offers a balanced proposition for Data Scientists. The cost of living index of 100.5 sits near the national average, meaning the median salary of $110,041 translates to real purchasing power that closely matches the nominal figure. This makes salary comparisons with other similarly-priced metros straightforward. Data Scientists evaluating Raleigh, NC against peer cities should focus on factors beyond raw salary numbers, including career growth opportunities, industry specialization, commute quality, and lifestyle fit.
The Technology field in Raleigh, NC benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Data Scientists stay connected and advance their careers. North Carolina's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Data Scientists early in their career, Raleigh, NC offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.
Data Scientist Compensation Deep Dive in Raleigh, NC
The salary range for Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC spans from $68,936 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $164,694 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $95,758. This 139% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $110,041 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Data Scientist with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($87,604) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($130,158) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.
Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $4,402 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Data Scientists should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $87,604 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $110,041 with minimal perks.
Cost of living directly impacts how far a Data Scientist's salary goes in Raleigh, NC. With a local cost-of-living index of 100.5 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $110,041 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $109,494 in an average-cost U.S. city. This balanced cost environment means the salary figure closely reflects actual purchasing power, simplifying financial planning and comparisons with other mid-range markets.
Negotiating Data Scientist compensation in Raleigh, NC requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($87,604 to $130,158) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, salaries track national norms, and well-prepared candidates can typically move offers 5-10% above the initial number. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Data Scientists in this market earn between $33 and $79 per hour, with the median at $53.
Data Scientist Career Path & Growth in Raleigh, NC
The career trajectory for Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $68,936, while top earners reach $164,694, representing a 2.4x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Raleigh, NC's technology market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.
Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Raleigh, NC's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.
The skills most in demand for Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Raleigh, NC value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Data Scientists stay competitive in Raleigh, NC's evolving job market.
More Questions About Data Scientist Salaries in Raleigh, NC
What is the starting salary for a Data Scientist in Raleigh, NC?
Entry-level Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC (10th percentile) earn approximately $68,936 per year, or about $5,745 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $87,604. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.
How much do experienced Data Scientists make in Raleigh, NC?
Experienced Data Scientists at the 75th percentile earn $130,158 annually in Raleigh, NC, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $164,694. The jump from median ($110,041) to 75th percentile represents a 18% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.
Is Raleigh, NC a good city for Data Scientists?
Raleigh, NC offers competitive compensation that closely tracks national averages. With 137 Data Scientist positions in the metro area, the market is smaller but can offer less competition and more personal career development. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.
How does Data Scientist pay in Raleigh, NC compare to the national average?
The median Data Scientist salary in Raleigh, NC is $110,041, which is 2% higher than the national median of $108,020. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $109,494, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within North Carolina, Raleigh, NC ranks at a competitive level for this occupation.
What benefits do Data Scientists typically receive in Raleigh, NC?
Beyond base salary, Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Data Scientist earning the median of $110,041 may receive total compensation of $143,053 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.
What skills are most in demand for Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC?
Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Technology field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
The median data scientist salary in Raleigh, NC is $110,041 per year ($52.90/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $68,936 for entry-level positions to $164,694 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.
Entry-level data scientists in Raleigh, NC typically start at around $68,936 per year ($33.14/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $110,041 within 3-5 years.
Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC earn a median hourly wage of $52.90 per hour. Hourly rates range from $33.14/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $79.18/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $68,936 and $164,694.
The median data scientist salary of $110,041 in Raleigh, NC is above the national median of $108,020 (1.9% higher). This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of data scientists in the area earn more and half earn less.
Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC earn above the national average. The local median salary of $110,041 is 1.9% higher than the national median of $108,020. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $109,494.
The top 10% of data scientists in Raleigh, NC earn $164,694 or more per year ($79.18/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $130,158, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.
Key skills that can boost data scientist salary in Raleigh, NC include: Strong programming skills (Python, R, SQL), Statistical analysis and machine learning expertise, Data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI), Big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop). Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $110,041, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($130,158) or higher. Education level (PhD commands premium)
Raleigh, NC has a specialized job market for data scientists, with approximately 137 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $110,041 is above the national average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.
Compare your data scientist salary to these Raleigh, NC benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $68,936, 25th percentile: $87,604, 50th percentile (median): $110,041, 75th percentile: $130,158, 90th percentile (top earners): $164,694. If you earn more than $110,041, you're above average for the area.
Beyond the $110,041 median base salary, data scientists in Raleigh, NC typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.
Experienced data scientists with 5-10 years in Raleigh, NC typically earn $130,158 (75th percentile) to $164,694 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $164,694. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $110,041.
Data Scientists in Raleigh, NC can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($68,936) to median ($110,041) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($164,694) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $95,758 over a career.
Data Source & Methodology
Official government statistics you can trust
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program
Visit Official BLS WebsiteData Year
2024
2 Years Old
Geographic Area
Raleigh-Cary
Metropolitan Statistical Area
Occupation Code
15-2051
SOC Classification
Sample Size
137
Employees Surveyed
How This Data Is Collected
The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.
Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.
Last updated: January 23, 2026
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Data Scientist in Raleigh, NC
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Median: $110,041/yr
How Raleigh, NC Compares
vs National Average
$108,020
vs North Carolina Average
$108,612
Cost-of-Living Adjusted
$109,494
Cost of living in Raleigh, NC is 0.5% above the national average.
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