Data Scientist Salary Jacksonville 2026

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Jacksonville: Full Breakdown

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, the average data scientist in Jacksonville earns $108,860 annually as of 2024. This translates to approximately $9,072 per month in gross income before taxes and deductions.

The data scientist role (SOC code 15-2051) encompasses professionals who use advanced statistical and computational methods to extract insights from large datasets. Jacksonville’s salary figure reflects the regional demand for these specialized professionals in Florida’s largest city.

Cost of Living Context

Jacksonville offers a relatively moderate cost of living compared to major tech hubs like San Francisco or New York. Data scientists evaluating a move to Jacksonville should consider:

• The $108,860 annual salary provides solid purchasing power in the local market
• Housing costs, transportation, and general expenses are lower than in coastal tech centers
• This makes Jacksonville an attractive option for data scientists seeking better work-life balance without significant salary sacrifice

The monthly gross income of approximately $9,072 provides substantial capacity for rent, savings, and living expenses in the Jacksonville area, where housing and operational costs remain below national urban averages.

Job Outlook for Data Scientists

Data science continues to be one of the fastest-growing career fields in the United States. The role of data scientist (SOC 15-2051) benefits from:

• Widespread adoption of AI and machine learning across industries including healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing
• Increasing data volume from digital transformation initiatives requiring skilled professionals to extract business value
• Competitive compensation reflecting the specialized skills and education required for the position

Jacksonville’s growing tech ecosystem, supported by major employers and a developing innovation corridor, creates steady demand for qualified data scientists. The region’s relatively lower cost of living compared to Silicon Valley or Boston makes it an increasingly attractive destination for professionals in this field.

Education and Skills Requirements

Data scientist positions typically require:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or related field (minimum)
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) increasingly preferred by employers
• Technical proficiency in programming languages (Python, R, SQL), machine learning frameworks, and data visualization tools
• Domain expertise in relevant industry sectors

Jacksonville employers actively recruit data scientists with experience in healthcare analytics, financial services, logistics, and manufacturing—sectors with significant presence in the region.

Career Advancement and Salary Growth

Data scientists in Jacksonville can advance to senior roles including:

• Senior Data Scientist: typically 20-30% higher compensation
• Data Science Manager: overseeing teams and strategic initiatives
• Principal Data Scientist: specialized expertise commanding premium compensation
• Chief Data Officer: executive-level positions in larger organizations

The $108,860 average salary represents mid-career compensation. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced degrees and specialized expertise command significantly higher salaries.

Why Jacksonville for Data Science Careers?

Jacksonville presents several advantages for data science professionals:

1. Lower cost of living extends purchasing power compared to traditional tech hubs
2. Growing tech community with increasing investment in innovation and startups
3. Diverse industry base creates varied opportunities across healthcare, finance, logistics, and tech
4. Quality of life benefits including proximity to beaches, reasonable commutes, and family-friendly environment
5. Competitive salaries that remain attractive despite being below coastal tech centers

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Entry-level data scientist positions in Jacksonville typically start below the $108,860 average, usually in the range of $70,000-$85,000 annually. Compensation depends on educational background (bachelor’s vs. advanced degree), relevant experience, and specific technical skills. Candidates with strong portfolios, internship experience, or specialized certifications may command higher starting offers.

How does data scientist salary in Jacksonville compare to the national average?

The national average for data scientists varies by source but typically ranges from $120,000-$140,000 depending on experience level and location. Jacksonville’s $108,860 figure is competitive for a mid-sized metropolitan area outside major tech hubs. However, when adjusted for cost of living, Jacksonville salaries provide comparable or superior purchasing power to positions in higher-cost regions.

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

Jacksonville can be an excellent choice for data scientists, particularly those prioritizing quality of life and work-life balance. The combination of competitive salary ($108,860 average), lower cost of living, growing tech ecosystem, and regional quality of life makes Jacksonville attractive. Professionals leaving expensive coastal markets may find their purchasing power actually increases despite similar or slightly lower nominal salaries.

What industries hire data scientists in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has significant employment of data scientists in healthcare (major medical institutions), financial services, logistics and supply chain management, manufacturing, and emerging tech startups. This diversity provides career flexibility and opportunities to specialize in different domains.

How often do data scientist salaries increase in Jacksonville?

Data scientists typically see annual raises of 3-5% with experience and performance. Significant salary jumps (15-30%) often occur with promotions to senior or leadership roles. Changing employers can also yield substantial increases for professionals with proven track records and in-demand skills.

What skills command the highest salaries for data scientists in Jacksonville?

Data scientists with expertise in machine learning, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), advanced statistical modeling, and domain-specific knowledge (healthcare, finance) typically earn at the higher end of the compensation range. Leadership experience and ability to communicate insights to non-technical stakeholders also significantly impact earning potential.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. SOC code 15-2051. Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: This article presents salary data from public sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Actual compensation varies based on individual qualifications, employer, specific role responsibilities, and market conditions. This content is informational and should not be considered financial or career advice. Consult with career professionals and conduct your own research when making employment decisions.