Entry Level (10th pct.)
$90,000
0–2 years experience
25th Percentile
$114,000
Below average earner
Median (50th pct.)
$143,000
Typical earner
75th Percentile
$180,000
Above average earner
Top Earner (90th pct.)
$220,000
5+ years experience

Data Scientist Salary Breakdown — Irvine, CA

The table below shows how Data Scientist salaries in Irvine distribute across experience levels and pay percentiles in 2026.

PercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyHourly (est.)Profile
10th$90,000$7,500$43Entry-level, new graduate
25th$114,000$9,500$551–3 years experience
Median$143,000$11,917$69Mid-career professional
75th$180,000$15,000$87Experienced professional
90th$220,000$18,333$106Senior / specialist

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), adjusted for Irvine regional cost of living. Data as of 2026.

Visual Salary Distribution

10th pct.
$90,000
25th pct.
$114,000
Median
$143,000
75th pct.
$180,000
90th pct.
$220,000

What Affects Data Scientist Salaries in Irvine?

  • Experience: Entry-level professionals earn significantly less than their senior counterparts. In Irvine, the gap between the 10th and 90th percentile is $130,000.
  • Industry:Data Scientists working in high-demand industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare often command salaries above the median.
  • Education & Certifications: Advanced degrees and relevant professional certifications can move your salary into the upper quartile.
  • Company size: Larger organizations typically offer higher compensation packages, including bonuses and equity.
  • Location within Irvine: Employers in downtown/central business districts or tech corridors often pay more than suburban offices.

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