Data Scientist Salary in Birmingham 2026

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Birmingham: Full Breakdown

Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from 2024, the data scientist position in Birmingham shows a mean annual salary of $97,460. This figure reflects the average compensation across all experience levels and employer types in the Birmingham area.

The $97,460 annual salary breaks down to approximately:

• Monthly: $8,122 (gross)
• Bi-weekly: $3,749 (gross)
• Hourly: $46.86 (based on standard 2,080 annual hours)

This salary data comes directly from the BLS OEWS survey, which collects wage information from employers across the United States. The data represents actual reported compensation for data scientists working in the Birmingham metropolitan area.

Understanding the Data Scientist Role in Birmingham

Data scientists in Birmingham work across diverse industries, applying statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization to solve business problems. The $97,460 mean salary reflects the value organizations place on these technical and analytical skills in the Birmingham job market.

The Birmingham metropolitan area has emerged as a growing tech hub in the Southeast, with increasing demand for data-driven decision-making across healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and technology sectors. This growing demand influences salary levels and job availability in the region.

Cost of Living Context

When evaluating a $97,460 salary in Birmingham, it’s important to consider the local cost of living. Birmingham offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to major U.S. tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, or Boston, which means your purchasing power in Birmingham is typically higher than in coastal metropolitan areas.

The monthly gross income from a data scientist position ($8,122) provides substantial capacity for housing, transportation, and living expenses in the Birmingham area. For comparison, many data scientists in high-cost-of-living cities earn significantly more in nominal terms but have less purchasing power after accounting for local expenses.

Job Outlook for Data Scientists in Birmingham

The demand for data science talent continues to grow nationally and regionally. Data scientists are increasingly essential as organizations across all sectors invest in analytics, artificial intelligence, and data-driven strategy. The Birmingham market reflects this broader trend, with employers actively recruiting for data science positions.

The role of data scientist (SOC code 15-2051) remains one of the fastest-growing occupational categories in the U.S. labor market. Organizations in Birmingham—from healthcare systems to manufacturing firms to financial institutions—are expanding their data science capabilities, creating sustained demand for qualified professionals.

Career Advancement and Salary Growth

Data scientists in Birmingham can expect salary growth through several pathways:

• Experience accumulation: Early-career data scientists typically earn less than the $97,460 average, with growth as they gain expertise and proven results
• Specialization: Expertise in high-demand areas (machine learning engineering, AI/deep learning, cloud platforms) can command premium compensation
• Leadership roles: Senior data scientists and data science managers typically earn significantly more than individual contributors
• Industry focus: Certain sectors (finance, healthcare technology, manufacturing) may offer higher compensation than others

Salary Negotiation Considerations

When negotiating a data scientist position in Birmingham, consider:

• Market rate: The $97,460 BLS average provides a baseline for negotiations
• Experience level: Entry-level positions typically start below this average; senior roles command premiums
• Skills and specialization: Proficiency in specific tools, languages (Python, R, SQL), or methodologies can justify higher offers
• Education: Advanced degrees (Master’s in Data Science, Statistics, or related fields) may support higher starting salaries
• Company size and industry: Larger organizations and certain industries typically offer higher compensation

Related Guides

FAQ

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

Entry-level data scientist positions in Birmingham typically start below the $97,460 average, generally ranging from $65,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on education level, relevant internship experience, and the hiring organization’s size and industry. Candidates with a Master’s degree in data science, statistics, or a related field, plus relevant project experience or internships, tend to command higher starting offers within this range.

How does the data scientist salary in Birmingham compare to other cities?

Birmingham’s $97,460 average data scientist salary is competitive within the Southeast region. However, it is generally lower than salaries in major tech hubs like San Francisco, Seattle, and Boston, where data scientists often earn $120,000–$160,000+ annually. Birmingham’s advantage lies in its lower cost of living, meaning the $97,460 salary provides strong purchasing power compared to higher-paying but more expensive metropolitan areas. The affordability factor makes Birmingham an attractive option for data scientists seeking quality of life alongside competitive compensation.

Is it worth moving to Birmingham for a data scientist position?

Moving to Birmingham for a data scientist role can be worthwhile, particularly if you’re relocating from a high-cost-of-living area. The $97,460 salary, combined with Birmingham’s relatively affordable housing, transportation, and living costs, can result in a higher standard of living than you’d achieve with a similar or even slightly higher salary in expensive coastal cities. Additionally, Birmingham’s growing tech ecosystem and diverse employer base (healthcare, manufacturing, finance) provide good career stability and advancement opportunities. However, if you’re comparing Birmingham to other affordable mid-sized cities in the Southeast, you should research specific opportunities and growth prospects with individual employers.

What skills command the highest data scientist salaries in Birmingham?

Data scientists in Birmingham with expertise in machine learning, artificial intelligence, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), and advanced programming languages (Python, Scala, Java) typically earn above the $97,460 average. Specialized skills in deep learning, natural language processing, and big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) are particularly valued. Additionally, domain expertise in high-value industries like healthcare, finance, or advanced manufacturing can support premium compensation.

What education do I need to become a data scientist in Birmingham?

Most data scientist positions require at least a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a related quantitative field. However, many employers in Birmingham prefer or require a Master’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Machine Learning, or a related discipline. Some candidates enter the field through intensive bootcamps or self-directed learning combined with strong portfolio projects, though these paths may result in lower starting salaries. The BLS data reflects compensation across various educational backgrounds, with advanced degrees generally supporting higher earnings.

How often does the data scientist salary in Birmingham change?

The BLS OEWS data used here is updated annually, with the most recent figures from 2024. Salaries for data scientists can shift based on labor market demand, economic conditions, and industry growth. The sustained growth in data science as a field suggests upward pressure on salaries over time. However, individual salary offers depend on negotiation, experience, employer, and specific skills—the BLS average serves as a market baseline rather than a guarantee for any particular position.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. SOC Code 15-2051 (Data Scientists). MSA: Birmingham, AL (13820).

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: Salary data presented here is based on public sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics and represents averages across the Birmingham metropolitan area. Actual compensation varies based on employer, experience, education, skills, and negotiation. This article is informational and should not be considered financial or career advice. Always conduct your own research and consult with career professionals when making employment decisions.