Data Scientist vs Game Developer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Data Scientist
Analyse large datasets and build predictive models to drive decisions.
Game Developer
Build video games for PC, console, and mobile platforms.
Game Developer earns more on average — the national median is $15,750/year (13%) higher than a Data Scientist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Data Scientist vs Game Developer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Data Scientist | Game Developer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $176,777 | $193,262 | Data $16,485 |
| New York, NY | $135,980 | $160,244 | Data $24,264 |
| Seattle, WA | $173,186 | $191,791 | Data $18,605 |
| Austin, TX | $130,733 | $153,586 | Data $22,853 |
| Chicago, IL | $132,415 | $149,561 | Data $17,146 |
| Boston, MA | $156,115 | $175,129 | Data $19,014 |
| London, UK | £78,216 | £103,778 | Data $25,562 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$134,265 | CA$181,136 | Data $46,871 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Data Scientist or Game Developer earn more?+
A Game Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Data Scientist is $120,230/year, compared to $135,980/year for a Game Developer — a difference of $15,750 (13%).
Which has better career growth — Data Scientist or Game Developer?+
Data Scientist roles are growing at 36% YoY while Game Developer demand is growing at 14% YoY. Data Scientist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Data Scientist to Game Developer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Data Scientist or Game Developer?+
Game Developer has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 40%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.