Data Scientist Salary in Dallas-Fort Worth 2026

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Dallas-Fort Worth: Full Breakdown

Based on the most recent BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from 2024, data scientists in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan statistical area (MSA code 19100) earn a mean annual salary of $119,130. This figure reflects compensation across all experience levels and employer sizes within the metro area, which spans multiple cities including Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Frisco, and McKinney.

The Dallas-Fort Worth region has established itself as a significant employment center for technical professionals. The area’s diverse economy—spanning finance, telecommunications, aerospace, and technology—creates substantial demand for data science talent. Companies headquartered or with major operations in the region include Fortune 500 corporations and rapidly growing tech firms that actively recruit data scientists for analytics, business intelligence, and machine learning roles.

Salary Range by Experience Level

While the BLS provides a mean salary figure, data scientist compensation in Dallas-Fort Worth typically varies based on experience, education, and specialization. Entry-level positions generally offer lower compensation, while senior roles and those requiring specialized skills (machine learning engineering, statistical modeling, big data architecture) command premium salaries. The $119,130 mean reflects this distribution across the entire workforce.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding salary in Dallas-Fort Worth requires considering the region’s cost of living. The Dallas-Fort Worth area is generally more affordable than major coastal tech hubs like San Francisco or New York, which means a $119,130 salary provides stronger purchasing power in this market.

Housing costs, transportation, and general expenses in Dallas-Fort Worth are moderate compared to national averages for major metropolitan areas. The region offers neighborhoods at various price points—from affordable suburbs to upscale urban centers—allowing professionals to choose living situations that match their compensation and lifestyle preferences.

For a data scientist earning the regional average of $119,130 annually, the monthly gross income is approximately $9,927. This salary level typically supports comfortable middle-class living in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with capacity for savings, retirement contributions, and discretionary spending after housing and essential expenses.

Job Market and Demand

The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area continues to attract technology companies and corporate headquarters seeking data science talent. The region’s business-friendly environment, lower operational costs compared to coastal tech centers, and access to a growing talent pool make it an attractive location for companies expanding their analytics capabilities.

Data scientists in Dallas-Fort Worth work across diverse industries:

• Financial services and banking: Major financial institutions headquartered in the region need advanced analytics
• Telecommunications: Established telecom companies require data science for network optimization and customer analytics
• Aerospace and defense: The region’s strong aerospace sector demands specialized analytical capabilities
• Retail and e-commerce: Growing retail and logistics companies use data science for supply chain and customer insights
• Technology startups: Increasing venture capital activity supports emerging tech companies

Notable Cities Within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metro

The Dallas-Fort Worth MSA encompasses several major employment centers:

• Plano: Home to major corporate headquarters and tech companies
• Irving: Financial and corporate services hub
• Arlington: Growing business and entertainment district
• Frisco: Rapidly developing area with tech and corporate growth
• McKinney: Emerging tech and business center
• Fort Worth: Diverse economy with aerospace, financial services, and growing tech sector

Salary levels and job opportunities may vary slightly across these cities, with Plano and Irving typically offering the highest concentration of data science roles due to their corporate headquarters presence.

Career Advancement Potential

Data scientists in Dallas-Fort Worth have clear pathways for career growth:

• Senior Data Scientist roles: Increased compensation and leadership of analytical projects
• Machine Learning Engineering: Specialization in production ML systems
• Analytics Manager/Director: Leadership positions overseeing teams and strategy
• Specialized domains: Deep expertise in finance, healthcare analytics, or industry-specific applications

Professional development opportunities, certifications (AWS, Google Cloud, advanced statistics), and skill expansion in emerging areas (generative AI, large language models) can support salary progression beyond the regional average.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting salary for a data scientist in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Entry-level data scientist positions in Dallas-Fort Worth typically start below the regional average of $119,130, generally ranging from $85,000 to $105,000 annually depending on education level and specific employer. Candidates with advanced degrees (Master’s in Data Science, Statistics, or Computer Science) or relevant certifications often command higher starting offers. Companies in Plano and Irving, where major corporate headquarters are located, may offer more competitive starting salaries than smaller employers in other parts of the metro.

How does Dallas-Fort Worth compare to other major tech cities for data scientist salaries?

Dallas-Fort Worth’s $119,130 average is competitive within the South and Midwest regions. While coastal tech hubs like San Francisco and New York typically offer higher nominal salaries, the cost-of-living differences mean Dallas-Fort Worth salaries often provide better real purchasing power. The region offers an attractive combination of reasonable compensation, lower housing costs, and strong job market demand compared to more saturated tech markets.

What skills command the highest salaries for data scientists in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Data scientists with expertise in machine learning, cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure), big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop), and specialized domains (financial modeling, healthcare analytics) typically earn above the regional average. Advanced proficiency in Python, SQL, and statistical analysis is table stakes, but differentiation through specialized skills or industry expertise drives premium compensation. Those working on high-impact projects in finance or aerospace sectors often see higher compensation reflecting the criticality of their work.

Is the Dallas-Fort Worth market growing for data science roles?

Yes, the Dallas-Fort Worth region continues to see growth in data science demand. The area’s attractive business environment, presence of major corporations expanding analytics capabilities, and growing tech sector create sustained demand for qualified data scientists. The region’s lower costs compared to coastal hubs make it increasingly appealing for companies establishing or expanding data science teams.

What industries in Dallas-Fort Worth hire the most data scientists?

Financial services, telecommunications, aerospace and defense, retail and e-commerce, and technology companies are the primary employers of data scientists in the region. The concentration of financial institutions and corporate headquarters in Dallas and Irving, combined with major telecom and aerospace operations, creates diverse opportunities across industries rather than dependence on a single sector.

Should I relocate to Dallas-Fort Worth for a data science position?

Relocation to Dallas-Fort Worth for a data science role can be financially advantageous, particularly if moving from a higher cost-of-living area or entering the job market. The $119,130 average salary, combined with moderate housing costs and reasonable quality of life, supports comfortable living standards. The region offers career growth opportunities across multiple industries and established professional networks. However, individual circumstances—including current compensation, family considerations, and career goals—should guide relocation decisions.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. SOC Code: 15-2051 (Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other).

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: Salary information presented here is based on publicly available data from government sources and represents general market trends. Actual compensation varies based on individual qualifications, employer, specific role requirements, and market conditions. This content is informational and should not be considered financial or career advice. Consult with career professionals or recruiters for personalized guidance.