Data Scientist Salary in Louisville 2026

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Louisville: Full Breakdown

Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from 2024, the average data scientist in Louisville earns $104,840 annually. This figure represents mean compensation across the Louisville metropolitan statistical area (MSA code 31140).

The $104,840 annual salary breaks down to approximately:

• Monthly: $8,737
• Bi-weekly: $4,032
• Hourly (assuming 2,080 annual hours): $50.40

Salary Range Context

While the BLS reports the mean salary of $104,840, data scientist compensation in Louisville typically spans a considerable range depending on experience, employer size, and industry specialization. Entry-level positions start lower, while senior data scientists and those in specialized domains (machine learning engineering, AI research) command significantly higher compensation.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding Louisville’s cost of living is essential when evaluating a $104,840 data scientist salary. Louisville has a lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, or Seattle, which means your purchasing power is substantially higher.

Louisville Housing Market:

• The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Louisville averages around $1,100–$1,300 per month, depending on neighborhood
• This represents approximately 13–15% of the average data scientist’s gross monthly income ($8,737)
• Home values in Louisville are significantly more affordable than coastal tech centers, with median home prices substantially below the national average

This cost-of-living advantage means that a $104,840 salary in Louisville provides greater financial flexibility and savings potential than the same nominal salary in higher-cost metros.

Historical Salary Trend

Data scientist roles are among the fastest-growing technical positions in the U.S. labor market. The 2024 BLS data showing a mean salary of $104,840 in Louisville reflects strong demand for these professionals. The data science field has experienced consistent wage growth over the past several years as organizations increasingly invest in analytics, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making.

Louisville’s tech sector, while smaller than major Silicon Valley or East Coast hubs, has been growing steadily with increasing adoption of data science in healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and financial services sectors.

Top Employers for Data Scientists in Louisville

Louisville has a diverse employer base seeking data science talent. Major industries include:

• Healthcare & Life Sciences: Louisville is home to significant healthcare organizations and pharmaceutical companies
• Logistics & Transportation: UPS’s major presence and other logistics firms require sophisticated data analytics
• Financial Services: Regional and national banks and insurance companies based in Louisville
• Manufacturing: Industrial companies leveraging predictive analytics and process optimization
• Bourbon & Consumer Goods: Distilleries and consumer products companies using data for supply chain and market analysis

While specific H-1B visa sponsorship data for Louisville data scientists is limited compared to major tech hubs, the city’s growing tech sector increasingly attracts both domestic and visa-sponsored talent.

Job Outlook for Data Scientists

The demand for data scientists continues to grow substantially. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science and related roles fall within the broader “computer and information research scientists” category (SOC 15-2051), which has experienced strong job growth.

Key Outlook Factors:

• Growth Trajectory: Data science roles have consistently ranked among the fastest-growing occupations
• Industry Demand: Nearly every industry sector now requires data science capabilities
• Skill Premium: Advanced skills in machine learning, Python, SQL, and cloud platforms command premium compensation
• Typical Education: Most data scientist positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or related field; many employers prefer graduate degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.)

Louisville’s position as a growing tech market means increased local opportunities without the extreme competition of tier-1 tech cities.

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FAQ

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

Entry-level data scientist positions in Louisville typically start in the $70,000–$85,000 range, though this varies by employer size and industry. Recent graduates with relevant internship experience or those transitioning from related technical roles may start at the lower end, while candidates with strong portfolios or advanced degrees may command higher entry-level offers. The $104,840 mean salary reported by BLS represents experience across all levels, so early-career professionals should expect to earn below this average initially.

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

Louisville’s $104,840 average salary for data scientists is competitive within the broader U.S. market. While major tech hubs like San Francisco, Seattle, and New York offer higher nominal salaries (often $130,000–$180,000+), the cost-of-living adjustment significantly favors Louisville. A $104,840 salary in Louisville provides comparable or superior purchasing power to substantially higher nominal salaries in expensive metros, making it an attractive option for those seeking both competitive compensation and quality of life.

Is it worth relocating to Louisville for a data scientist position?

Relocating to Louisville for a data scientist role can be financially advantageous, particularly if you’re coming from another mid-sized market or if you value work-life balance and lower living costs. The combination of a solid $104,840 average salary with significantly lower housing costs, no state income tax on retirement income, and a growing tech ecosystem makes Louisville appealing. However, if you’re comparing it to established tech hubs where salaries exceed $150,000+, the nominal difference may be offset by Louisville’s lower cost of living. Consider your career stage, industry focus, and personal priorities when evaluating relocation.

What skills command the highest data scientist salaries in Louisville?

Data scientists with expertise in machine learning, Python, SQL, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), and big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop) typically earn at the higher end of the salary range. Those with specialized knowledge in healthcare analytics, financial modeling, or supply chain optimization—industries prominent in Louisville—may find particularly strong compensation packages. Advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) and proven track records delivering business impact also justify premium compensation.

What is the job market like for data scientists in Louisville?

Louisville’s job market for data scientists is healthy and growing. While it doesn’t match the sheer volume of opportunities in tier-1 tech cities, the diversity of industries—healthcare, logistics, finance, manufacturing—creates consistent demand. The lower cost of living and reduced competition compared to major tech hubs can actually work in candidates’ favor, providing better opportunities for career advancement and negotiation leverage. Remote work options also allow Louisville-based data scientists to access national opportunities.

How much do data scientists in Louisville typically earn with experience?

The $104,840 BLS mean salary represents an average across experience levels. Mid-career data scientists (5–10 years experience) typically earn $110,000–$140,000, while senior data scientists, team leads, or those in specialized roles may exceed $150,000. Factors including employer size, industry, specific technical skills, and demonstrated business impact significantly influence compensation progression. Certifications, advanced degrees, and published research can also accelerate salary growth.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. Data scientist occupational data uses SOC code 15-2051 for the Louisville metropolitan statistical area (MSA code 31140).

This article is informational and based on aggregated public data sources. Actual salary offers may vary significantly based on individual qualifications, employer, and negotiation. Last updated: April 10, 2026.