Data Scientist Salary in Seattle: Is It Worth It?
The median data scientist salary in Seattle is $165K a year. Here is what actually lands in your pocket after taxes - and what it's really worth once you account for the local cost of living.
Where the money goes
| Item | Amount / year | Share of gross |
|---|---|---|
| Gross salary | $164,740 | 100% |
| Federal income tax (2026, single) | −$28,272 | 17.2% |
| FICA (Social Security + Medicare) | −$12,603 | 7.7% |
| State income tax (Washington) | −$0 | 0.0% |
| Take-home | $123,865 | 75.2% |
Estimates use single filing status, standard deduction, wages-only income. Full assumptions on the methodology page.
Compare with other metros
Boston
Atlanta
Chicago
Dallas
Detroit
Houston
Typical costs to know
Washington has no state income tax, and Seattle's cost of living is 11% above the U.S. average. In dollar terms,$165K of gross salary converts to roughly $111K of buying power after tax.
FAQ
What is the average data scientist salary in Seattle?
The median annual wage is $164,740, per the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey.
How much do data scientists take home in Seattle?
After estimated federal income tax ($28,272), FICA ($12,603) and Washington state tax ($0), net income is about $123,865 a year - roughly $10K per month.
Is $165K a good salary in Seattle?
Because the local cost of living is 11% above the U.S. average, that salary supports buying power roughly equivalent to $111K at the national average. See the methodology for the math.