Data Scientist Salary in Birmingham 2025

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Birmingham: Full Breakdown

Based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from 2024, data scientists in Birmingham earn a mean annual salary of $97,460. This figure is sourced from the BLS survey covering the Birmingham-Hoover Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA code 13820).

The $97,460 annual salary translates to approximately $8,122 per month or $46.86 per hour based on a standard 40-hour work week and 12-month employment year. This compensation level reflects the specialized skills required for data science roles, including proficiency in statistical analysis, programming languages (Python, R, SQL), machine learning frameworks, and data visualization.

Data scientist positions in Birmingham span various industries, including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and technology services. The role typically requires advanced technical knowledge and often a master’s degree or equivalent professional experience, which contributes to the compensation level relative to other technical positions in the region.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding salary in the context of local cost of living is essential for evaluating compensation adequacy. Birmingham offers a relatively moderate cost of living compared to major tech hubs, which means the $97,460 salary provides substantial purchasing power for residents.

The Birmingham area’s cost of living is lower than national averages for housing, utilities, and general goods and services. This cost advantage means that data scientists in Birmingham can maintain a comfortable lifestyle, save for retirement, and manage student loan debt more effectively than counterparts earning similar salaries in high-cost metropolitan areas like San Francisco, New York, or Boston.

For context, the national median household income stands considerably lower than the data scientist salary in Birmingham, indicating that data science represents a well-compensated career path in the region. Housing affordability in Birmingham is particularly favorable compared to national trends, allowing professionals to build equity and invest in real estate.

Job Outlook for Data Scientists

The demand for data science talent continues to grow as organizations across all sectors increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making. Data scientists are classified under SOC code 15-2051 (Research Scientists and Mathematicians), a broad occupational category that reflects the mathematical and analytical foundation of the role.

The data science field has experienced significant growth over the past decade, driven by:

• Increased data availability: Organizations accumulate vast amounts of data from digital operations, IoT devices, and customer interactions
• Advanced analytics adoption: Companies invest in predictive modeling, machine learning, and AI capabilities
• Competitive advantage: Data-driven insights provide measurable business value across industries
• Digital transformation: COVID-19 accelerated cloud adoption and remote analytics capabilities

Birmingham’s economy includes growing sectors that actively hire data scientists, including healthcare organizations, financial services firms, and manufacturing companies leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies.

Career Progression and Experience

Data scientist compensation in Birmingham reflects the specialized nature of the role. Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field (mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or economics) or equivalent professional experience. Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in data science, statistics, or a related field.

Career advancement in data science typically follows these progression paths:

• Junior Data Scientist: 0-2 years experience, focuses on data cleaning, basic analysis, and supporting senior team members
• Data Scientist: 2-5 years experience, leads end-to-end analytics projects, develops models, and communicates insights to stakeholders
• Senior Data Scientist: 5+ years experience, mentors junior staff, drives technical strategy, and manages complex initiatives
• Lead/Principal Data Scientist: 8+ years experience, sets organizational data science direction and manages teams

Salary growth typically accelerates with experience, advanced certifications (AWS, Google Cloud, Databricks), and demonstrated business impact from analytical work.

Top Skills Driving Compensation

Data scientists commanding the $97,460 average salary in Birmingham typically demonstrate proficiency in:

• Programming languages: Python, R, SQL, Scala, Java
• Machine learning frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, XGBoost
• Cloud platforms: AWS, Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure
• Data visualization: Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib, ggplot2
• Statistical methods: Regression, classification, clustering, time series analysis
• Big data tools: Spark, Hadoop, Hive (for larger organizations)
• Communication: Translating technical findings for non-technical stakeholders

Related Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting salary for a data scientist in Birmingham?

Entry-level data scientist positions in Birmingham typically start between $65,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on educational background and relevant experience. Candidates with a master’s degree or strong portfolio of projects may command higher starting offers. The progression to the $97,460 average typically occurs within 3-5 years as professionals gain experience and demonstrate business impact.

How does data scientist salary in Birmingham compare to other tech roles in the region?

Data scientists in Birmingham earn competitive compensation relative to software engineers and business analysts. The $97,460 average reflects the specialized skill set and advanced education typically required. Related technical roles may offer comparable or slightly lower compensation depending on specific responsibilities and market demand for particular skill sets.

Is a data science career worth pursuing in Birmingham?

Yes, data science represents a strong career path in Birmingham. The $97,460 average salary substantially exceeds median household income in the region, providing financial security and growth potential. The lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs means this salary provides excellent purchasing power. Additionally, the growing adoption of analytics across healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services sectors creates sustained job demand and career advancement opportunities.

What education is typically required to earn the average data scientist salary in Birmingham?

Most positions commanding the $97,460 average salary require at least a bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field (mathematics, statistics, computer science, or engineering). Many employers prefer or require a master’s degree in data science, statistics, or a related discipline. Professional certifications in cloud platforms or machine learning frameworks can supplement formal education and support salary negotiation.

How does the data scientist job market in Birmingham compare to national trends?

Data science remains a high-growth occupation nationally, with demand outpacing supply in most markets. Birmingham’s relatively lower cost of living compared to major tech centers makes it an attractive location for companies establishing data science teams. This creates favorable conditions for job seekers and supports competitive salary growth over time.

What industries in Birmingham employ data scientists?

Major employers of data scientists in Birmingham include healthcare systems (UAB Medicine), financial services firms, manufacturing companies implementing advanced analytics, insurance carriers, and technology service providers. The healthcare sector is particularly active in data science hiring, leveraging analytics for patient outcomes, operational efficiency, and research.

---

Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. Occupational classification: SOC 15-2051 (Research Scientists and Mathematicians). Metropolitan Statistical Area: Birmingham-Hoover, AL (MSA code 13820).

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: Salary figures represent mean annual compensation based on BLS survey data and are informational in nature. Actual compensation varies based on employer, specific role responsibilities, experience, education, certifications, and individual negotiation. This content is not financial or career advice. Consult with career counselors, salary negotiation professionals, or industry experts for personalized guidance.