Data Scientist Salary in Orlando 2026

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Orlando: Full Breakdown

As of 2024, data scientists in Orlando earn a mean annual salary of $115,880, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. This figure reflects the middle-market compensation for this specialized role in Florida’s tech and analytics sector.

The Orlando data science market has become increasingly competitive as the region attracts tech talent and companies seeking alternatives to higher-cost tech hubs. Understanding where Orlando’s data scientist salaries fall within the broader job market is critical for both job seekers and employers negotiating offers.

Key Salary Metrics for Data Scientists in Orlando (2024 BLS Data):

• Annual Mean Salary: $115,880
• Survey Year: 2024
• Occupational Code: SOC 15-2051 (Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations)
• Metropolitan Statistical Area: Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL (MSA 36740)

Cost of Living Context

Orlando’s cost of living is notably lower than major tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, or Seattle, which affects the real purchasing power of a data scientist’s salary. While specific median rent data for Orlando was not available in the current dataset, the region is generally considered affordable for Florida standards, with a diverse housing market ranging from urban apartments in downtown Orlando to suburban options in Winter Park and Lake Mary.

For a data scientist earning $115,880 annually, the monthly gross income is approximately $9,657. This provides substantial purchasing power for housing, transportation, and living expenses in the Orlando area compared to coastal tech centers.

The Orlando metropolitan area includes several satellite communities worth considering:

• Kissimmee — Southwest of Orlando, more affordable suburban option
• Sanford — North of Orlando, growing tech corridor
• Winter Park — Upscale residential area, close to downtown
• Lake Mary — North-central suburb with strong commercial development

Job Outlook for Data Scientists in Orlando

The data science field continues to experience robust demand across industries. Data scientists are increasingly essential for companies leveraging big data, machine learning, and artificial intelligence across healthcare, finance, hospitality, and technology sectors. Orlando’s diverse economy—anchored by tourism, healthcare, and growing tech sectors—creates multiple pathways for data science professionals.

Typical Requirements for Data Scientist Roles:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or related field (many positions require or prefer advanced degrees)
• Experience Level: Entry-level positions typically require 0-2 years; mid-level 2-5 years; senior roles 5+ years
• Key Skills: Python, R, SQL, machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, scikit-learn), data visualization, statistical analysis, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)

Data scientists with specialized expertise in machine learning, deep learning, or domain-specific applications (healthcare analytics, financial modeling) typically command higher compensation within the Orlando market.

Relocation Considerations

Is Orlando Right for Data Scientists?

Orlando presents an attractive option for data science professionals seeking:

• Lower cost of living compared to traditional tech hubs
• Growing tech ecosystem with increasing startup and enterprise presence
• Quality of life with year-round warm weather, entertainment, and recreational opportunities
• Diverse industries beyond tech, including healthcare systems, hospitality, and finance

The $115,880 average salary provides solid middle-class income in Orlando, with strong purchasing power for housing and lifestyle. For professionals relocating from high-cost areas, this salary may represent a net increase in discretionary income even if the nominal figure appears lower than coastal alternatives.

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FAQ

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

Entry-level data scientists in Orlando typically start below the $115,880 average. While specific 25th percentile data was not available in the current dataset, entry-level positions generally offer 20-35% below the mean salary depending on education level, certifications, and prior experience. Candidates with bootcamp training or recent computer science degrees should expect offers in the $70,000-$85,000 range, while those with advanced degrees or relevant internship experience may command $85,000-$100,000.

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

The national average for data scientists is higher than Orlando’s $115,880 figure, particularly when weighted toward major metropolitan areas like San Francisco, New York, Boston, and Seattle where salaries exceed $130,000-$150,000+. However, Orlando’s cost of living is significantly lower, meaning the purchasing power of the $115,880 salary is competitive with national standards. A data scientist earning $115,880 in Orlando has comparable or greater real income than someone earning $140,000 in a high-cost coastal city.

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

Data scientists with expertise in machine learning, deep learning, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), and specialized domains (healthcare analytics, financial modeling, real estate technology) typically earn 15-30% above the $115,880 average. Advanced certifications (AWS Certified Machine Learning Specialty, Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer), published research, or experience with enterprise-scale big data systems (Hadoop, Spark) also correlate with higher compensation.

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

For professionals currently in lower-paying markets or early-career positions, Orlando offers a solid opportunity with reasonable cost of living. For those relocating from major tech hubs, the nominal salary may appear lower, but the reduced housing costs, taxes, and general living expenses often result in higher net savings and quality of life. Orlando is particularly attractive for mid-career professionals seeking better work-life balance and lower stress than competitive coastal markets.

What industries in Orlando hire the most data scientists?

Orlando’s diverse economy creates demand across multiple sectors: healthcare systems (Orlando Health, AdventHealth), hospitality and tourism (theme parks, hotel chains), financial services, insurance, and a growing software/SaaS sector. Healthcare and hospitality represent the largest employers of data scientists in the region, offering stability and competitive compensation aligned with the $115,880 average.

How has data scientist salary in Orlando changed in recent years?

The provided dataset reflects 2024 BLS data. Historically, data science salaries have grown 5-8% annually as demand for these skills increases and the field matures. Orlando’s market has experienced accelerated growth as companies expand operations outside traditional tech hubs and remote work enables talent concentration in more affordable regions.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2024. Occupational code 15-2051 (Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations). Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford MSA (code 36740).

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: Salary figures represent aggregated data from public sources and may not reflect individual compensation. Actual salaries vary based on employer, experience, education, skills, and market conditions. This content is informational and should not be considered financial or career advice. Consult with HR professionals or career advisors for personalized guidance.