Data Scientist Salary in Tampa 2026

Quick Answer

Data Scientist Salary in Tampa: Full Breakdown

The $117,400 annual mean salary for data scientists in Tampa reflects the competitive demand for analytics and machine learning expertise in Florida’s largest metropolitan area. This figure is based on the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey data from 2024.

For context, data scientists in Tampa work across diverse industries including healthcare, financial services, technology startups, and corporate analytics teams. The role typically requires proficiency in Python, SQL, machine learning frameworks, and data visualization tools—skills commanding premium compensation in the Tampa job market.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding your salary requires context about Tampa’s cost of living. The Tampa metropolitan area, which includes neighboring cities like St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, and Lakeland, offers a relatively affordable Southeast location compared to coastal tech hubs like San Francisco or New York.

Tampa’s cost of living is moderate for a major metropolitan area. Housing, transportation, and general expenses are below the national average, meaning the $117,400 data scientist salary stretches further in Tampa than it would in high-cost tech centers. This makes Tampa an attractive relocation destination for data professionals seeking career growth without the expense shock of moving to Silicon Valley or the Northeast Corridor.

The Tampa Bay region has experienced steady growth in its tech sector, with an expanding ecosystem of companies investing in data analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities. This growth trajectory suggests sustained or increasing demand for data scientist positions in the coming years.

Comparable Positions in the Tampa Area

Data scientists in Tampa often compete with or transition to related roles such as:

• Data Analysts: Entry-level analytics positions with lower salary ranges
• Machine Learning Engineers: Specialized roles commanding premium compensation
• Business Intelligence Specialists: Data-focused roles in corporate settings
• Statistical Analysts: Research-oriented positions in healthcare and academia

The $117,400 mean salary positions data scientists in the upper tier of analytics roles, reflecting the technical depth and business impact expected in the role.

Job Outlook for Data Scientists

The data science field continues to experience strong demand nationally. Organizations across all sectors are increasing investments in data-driven decision-making, artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics. This trend supports healthy job growth and competitive compensation for qualified professionals.

Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in machine learning, statistical modeling, or data engineering. Advanced degrees (master’s or PhD) can lead to senior positions and higher compensation, though they are not universally required.

The Tampa market benefits from this national trend, with local employers actively recruiting data talent. The region’s growing startup ecosystem and established corporate presence create diverse career paths for data scientists at all experience levels.

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FAQ

What qualifications do I need to become a data scientist in Tampa earning $117,400+?

Data scientists in Tampa typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or engineering. Most employers expect proficiency in Python or R, SQL database management, machine learning libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow), and data visualization tools. A portfolio demonstrating real-world projects—whether from academic work, Kaggle competitions, or open-source contributions—significantly strengthens your candidacy. Many senior positions and roles commanding salaries above the $117,400 mean require 3-5 years of relevant experience or a master’s degree.

How does the Tampa data scientist salary compare to other Florida cities?

Tampa’s $117,400 mean salary is competitive within Florida. While the provided dataset focuses on Tampa’s metropolitan area, the city benefits from being Florida’s largest tech hub outside Miami. Nearby cities in the Tampa Bay region—including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, and Lakeland—typically offer slightly lower average compensation, as they have smaller concentrations of major tech employers and corporate headquarters. However, the cost of living in these surrounding areas is also lower, which can offset salary differences.

Is relocating to Tampa worth it for a data scientist career?

Relocation to Tampa can be worthwhile for data scientists, particularly if you’re coming from a high-cost-of-living area. The $117,400 salary provides strong purchasing power in Tampa’s moderate cost-of-living environment. The region offers career growth opportunities through its expanding tech ecosystem, diverse industries (healthcare, finance, tourism, technology), and lower housing costs compared to major tech centers. Additionally, Tampa’s quality of life—beaches, cultural amenities, no state income tax in Florida—adds non-financial benefits. However, if you’re currently in a lower cost-of-living area, the salary increase may not justify relocation; compare your current total compensation and lifestyle costs before deciding.

What industries in Tampa hire the most data scientists?

While specific employer data is not available in the current dataset, Tampa’s economy supports data scientist demand across healthcare (major medical centers and insurance companies), financial services (banking and fintech), tourism and hospitality technology, and growing software development firms. The region’s healthcare sector, in particular, drives significant demand for data analytics and machine learning applications.

How often do data scientist salaries in Tampa increase?

Salary growth for data scientists typically follows two paths: annual raises within a company (often 3-5% annually) and larger jumps through job changes (10-20% or more when moving to a more senior role or a higher-paying employer). The $117,400 mean salary represents a snapshot from 2024; actual individual compensation varies based on employer, experience, specialization (e.g., machine learning engineering vs. analytics), and negotiation. Professionals with in-demand skills in emerging areas like large language models or MLOps often command premium compensation above the mean.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024. SOC code: 15-2051. MSA code: 45300.

Last updated: April 10, 2026

Disclaimer: This salary information is based on publicly available data from government sources and is provided for informational purposes only. Actual compensation varies significantly based on individual qualifications, employer, experience, and negotiation. This content is not financial or career advice. Always verify current salary data and consult with industry professionals before making employment decisions.