Data Scientist Salary in Philadelphia 2025

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Philadelphia: Full Breakdown

Based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from 2024, the Philadelphia data scientist market reflects strong demand for analytical talent in the Northeast corridor.

Annual Mean Salary: $118,310

This salary positions Philadelphia competitively within the Northeast region, though actual compensation varies significantly based on experience level, employer size, industry sector, and specific skill sets. Data scientists in Philadelphia work across diverse industries including financial services, healthcare technology, pharmaceuticals, and digital media—each with distinct compensation structures.

Experience and Education Requirements

Data scientist roles in Philadelphia typically require:

• Entry-level: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or related field
• Mid-level: 3-5 years of experience with advanced proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and machine learning frameworks
• Senior-level: 7+ years of experience, often with leadership responsibilities and specialized domain expertise

The Philadelphia metro area includes several major employment hubs beyond the city proper—notably King of Prussia (home to major pharmaceutical and tech companies), Camden, Wilmington, and Cherry Hill—each contributing to the regional talent pool and salary benchmarks.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding the real purchasing power of a $118,310 salary requires context about Philadelphia’s cost of living. While specific median rent data for the current period is not available in the provided dataset, data scientists should factor in:

• Pennsylvania’s state income tax (3.07% flat rate)
• Philadelphia’s local income tax (3.8751%)
• Regional housing costs relative to national averages
• Transportation and commuting expenses to tech hubs like King of Prussia

The combined state and local tax burden in Philadelphia is among the highest on the East Coast, meaning gross salary translates to lower take-home pay compared to lower-tax regions. A data scientist earning $118,310 should budget accordingly for these tax obligations when evaluating relocation decisions.

Philadelphia’s Data Science Job Market

Philadelphia’s position as a major Northeast metropolitan area supports a robust data science employment market. The region’s economy spans:

• Financial Services: Major banking and insurance operations
• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: Extensive biotech and medical device sectors
• Technology: Growing startup ecosystem and established tech companies
• Education: Research institutions with substantial data science initiatives

The Philadelphia MSA (37980) encompasses approximately 6.2 million residents across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, creating a substantial talent pool and multiple employment opportunities for data scientists at various career stages.

Salary Comparison and Context

The $118,310 mean salary for Philadelphia data scientists reflects:

• Regional demand: Strong hiring activity from major employers in financial services and healthcare
• Cost of living adjustments: Higher salaries partly offset by higher regional living costs
• Competitive positioning: Philadelphia offers lower salaries than peak tech markets (San Francisco, New York City) but higher than many Midwest markets

For professionals considering relocation to Philadelphia, the salary should be evaluated alongside:

• Lower housing costs compared to coastal tech hubs
• Strong public transportation infrastructure (SEPTA)
• No state sales tax in Pennsylvania
• Proximity to major employment centers in New Jersey and Delaware

Top Employers for Data Scientists in Philadelphia

While specific H-1B employer data is not available in the current dataset, data scientists in Philadelphia typically find opportunities at:

• Major pharmaceutical and biotech companies headquartered in the region
• Financial institutions with significant operations in Center City Philadelphia
• Healthcare systems and hospital networks
• Insurance companies with actuarial and analytics divisions
• Technology companies with Philadelphia offices

Job Outlook and Growth Trends

Data science remains one of the fastest-growing occupational categories in the United States. Philadelphia’s diverse economic base—particularly strength in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and financial services—creates sustained demand for data science talent.

Key factors supporting job growth in Philadelphia:

• Continued digital transformation across traditional industries
• Expansion of healthcare analytics driven by major hospital systems
• Growth in fintech and financial technology services
• Increasing adoption of machine learning in pharmaceutical R&D

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Entry-level data scientist positions in Philadelphia typically start below the $118,310 mean, generally in the $85,000–$100,000 range. However, candidates with strong educational credentials (advanced degrees in statistics, computer science, or mathematics) or specialized skills in machine learning and cloud platforms may command higher starting offers. The actual entry-level salary depends heavily on the employer’s industry sector and size.

How does Philadelphia’s data scientist salary compare to nearby regions?

Philadelphia’s $118,310 mean salary positions the city competitively within the Northeast. The region benefits from proximity to major employment centers in New Jersey and Delaware, as well as the broader Northeast corridor. Nearby metro areas with significant tech sectors may offer different compensation levels, making Philadelphia an attractive option for those seeking Northeast location without the premium salaries (and costs) of New York City or Boston.

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

Data scientists with expertise in specialized areas typically earn above the mean salary. These include:

• Machine learning engineering and deep learning frameworks
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) architecture and optimization
• Big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop, Kafka)
• Domain expertise in healthcare analytics, financial modeling, or pharmaceutical research
• Leadership and project management capabilities

Is Philadelphia a good market for data scientist career growth?

Philadelphia offers solid career growth opportunities due to its diverse economy and major employers across multiple sectors. The region’s cost of living is lower than peak tech markets while salaries remain competitive, making it attractive for mid-career professionals. The presence of major pharmaceutical companies, healthcare systems, and financial institutions ensures diverse career paths and opportunities for specialization.

How does the Philadelphia data science job market compare to national trends?

Philadelphia aligns with national trends showing strong demand for data scientists, but with regional variations. The city’s particular strength in healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors means data scientists with domain expertise in these areas may find especially robust opportunities. The regional talent pool is substantial, which can create competitive hiring but also ensures access to peer networks and professional development resources.

What should I negotiate for as a data scientist salary in Philadelphia?

Beyond base salary, data scientists in Philadelphia should consider negotiating:

• Remote work flexibility (increasingly common post-2024)
• Professional development budgets for certifications and training
• Stock options or equity (especially at growth-stage companies)
• Performance bonuses tied to project outcomes
• Flexible scheduling and work-from-home arrangements
• Relocation assistance if moving to the Philadelphia area

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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). Last updated: April 10, 2026.

Disclaimer: Salary data presented here is based on public sources and represents averages across the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Actual compensation varies based on individual qualifications, employer, industry, and negotiation. This content is informational only and should not be construed as financial or career advice. Consult with career counselors or HR professionals for personalized guidance.