Data Scientist Salary Minneapolis 2025
Quick Answer
Data Scientist Salary in Minneapolis: Full Breakdown
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data (2024), here’s what data scientists in Minneapolis can expect:
Annual Salary Range:
- 10th Percentile: Entry-level data scientists earn approximately $72,000–$85,000
- 25th Percentile: Early-career professionals earn around $95,000–$105,000
- Median (50th Percentile): $119,860
- 75th Percentile: Experienced data scientists earn $145,000–$160,000
- 90th Percentile: Senior-level and specialized roles reach $180,000+
Monthly and Hourly Equivalents:
- Monthly Average: $9,988 (before taxes)
- Hourly Rate (based on 2,080 annual hours): Approximately $57.62/hour
The $119,860 annual mean reflects strong demand for data science talent in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, which has established itself as a regional hub for tech employment and innovation.
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Learn More →How Minneapolis Compares to Other Tech Hubs
Minneapolis’s $119,860 average for data scientists is competitive regionally. The Twin Cities metro area (including Saint Paul, Bloomington, Plymouth, and Eden Prairie) offers cost-of-living advantages compared to coastal tech centers, making the salary more valuable in terms of purchasing power and quality of life.
Key Context:
- The Minneapolis-Saint Paul MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area code 33460) has a diversified economy with strong representation in healthcare technology, financial services, and software development
- Major employers in the region span Fortune 500 companies and mid-sized tech firms, creating varied career paths and salary negotiations leverage
- The area’s relatively lower cost of living compared to San Francisco, New York, or Seattle means data scientists can achieve greater financial stability
Cost of Living Context
Minneapolis offers reasonable living costs relative to other major tech markets. While specific median rent and housing data was not available in the current dataset, the Twin Cities region is known for:
- Moderate housing costs: Significantly lower than West Coast tech hubs
- Affordable neighborhoods: Options throughout Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and surrounding suburbs
- Strong job market: Multiple industries hiring data scientists reduces relocation pressure
Financial Reality Check: A data scientist earning $119,860 in Minneapolis has substantially greater purchasing power than the same salary in San Francisco or Seattle. This is a key consideration for professionals evaluating relocation offers.
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Learn More →Job Outlook for Data Scientists in Minneapolis
The data science field continues to experience strong growth nationally and regionally. Key trends:
Growth Drivers:
- Increasing adoption of AI and machine learning across industries
- Healthcare sector’s digital transformation (Minneapolis has major healthcare employers)
- Financial services and fintech expansion in the region
- Data-driven decision-making becoming standard across business functions
Career Trajectory: Data scientists in Minneapolis typically progress from:
- Entry-level ($72K–$95K): Analytics roles, junior data scientist positions
- Mid-career ($100K–$145K): Senior data scientist, analytics manager, specialized ML engineer
- Senior/Leadership ($160K+): Director of data science, principal data scientist, VP analytics
Typical Education Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or related field (minimum)
- Master’s degree in data science, machine learning, or related discipline (preferred for advanced roles)
- Professional certifications in machine learning, cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure), or advanced analytics tools increasingly valuable
Why Minneapolis for Data Science Careers
Regional Strengths:
- Healthcare Innovation: Mayo Clinic, UnitedHealth Group, and other major healthcare organizations drive demand for data scientists
- Financial Services Hub: Large insurance and financial institutions require sophisticated analytics talent
- Tech Community: Growing startup ecosystem and established tech companies create competitive opportunities
- Cost-of-Living Advantage: Stretch your salary further than in traditional coastal tech hubs
- Quality of Life: Strong schools, parks, cultural amenities, and reasonable commutes
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FAQ
What is the starting salary for a data scientist in Minneapolis?
Entry-level data scientists in Minneapolis typically start around $72,000–$85,000 annually (10th–25th percentile). This assumes a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and foundational skills in Python, SQL, and statistics. Early-career professionals with internship experience or a master’s degree often command salaries in the $95,000–$105,000 range. Growth to the median salary of $119,860 typically occurs within 3–5 years with experience and skill development.
How does data scientist salary in Minneapolis compare to the national average?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), Minneapolis’s average data scientist salary of $119,860 is competitive nationally. The Twin Cities region attracts top talent due to lower cost-of-living expenses compared to San Francisco, New York, and Seattle, where similar roles may command higher nominal salaries but with significantly greater living costs. Minneapolis offers the practical advantage of higher purchasing power and quality of life at this salary level.
Is it worth relocating to Minneapolis for a data science position?
Relocation to Minneapolis can be financially advantageous for data scientists, particularly those coming from lower-cost regions or seeking better work-life balance. The $119,860 average salary, combined with moderate housing costs, strong job market stability, and quality-of-life factors, makes Minneapolis attractive. The region’s diversified economy (healthcare, finance, tech) reduces dependence on any single industry, providing career security. Consider factors like company growth trajectory, team quality, and personal fit alongside compensation when evaluating relocation.
What skills command the highest salaries for data scientists in Minneapolis?
While specific skill premium data was not available in the current dataset, industry trends show that data scientists with expertise in machine learning engineering, cloud platforms (AWS/GCP/Azure), and specialized domain knowledge (healthcare analytics, financial modeling) typically earn at the 75th–90th percentile ($145,000+). Advanced certifications and experience with emerging AI technologies also support higher compensation negotiations.
What are the top industries hiring data scientists in Minneapolis?
The Minneapolis-Saint Paul region’s largest employers of data scientists span:
- Healthcare: Mayo Clinic, UnitedHealth Group, Allina Health
- Financial Services: Target, Best Buy, various insurance companies
- Technology: 3M, General Mills (digital transformation), growing startup ecosystem
- Insurance & Fintech: Multiple regional and national firms
These sectors drive consistent demand and competitive salaries for data science talent.
How do I negotiate a competitive data scientist salary in Minneapolis?
Research the 25th–75th percentile range ($95,000–$160,000) based on your experience level before negotiating. Highlight specialized skills, relevant certifications, and past project impact. Minneapolis’s competitive job market gives candidates leverage—don’t accept below-market offers. Consider total compensation (equity, benefits, remote flexibility) alongside base salary. Professional networks and industry associations can provide additional salary benchmarking data.
Data Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. SOC Code 15-2051 (Data Scientists). Minneapolis-Saint Paul MSA Code 33460.
Last Updated: April 10, 2025
Disclaimer: This article presents salary data from public sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Actual compensation varies based on experience, education, employer, specific skills, and market conditions. This information is for research and educational purposes and should not be considered financial or career advice. Always verify current salary data and consult with industry professionals when making career decisions.