Data Scientist vs Network Engineer: 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.
Network Engineer
Design, implement, and manage computer network infrastructure.
Network Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $13,820/year (11%) 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 Network Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Data Scientist | Network Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $176,777 | $195,491 | Data $18,714 |
| New York, NY | $135,980 | $165,772 | Data $29,792 |
| Seattle, WA | $173,186 | $192,889 | Data $19,703 |
| Austin, TX | $130,733 | $149,704 | Data $18,971 |
| Chicago, IL | $132,415 | $145,221 | Data $12,806 |
| Boston, MA | $156,115 | $176,955 | Data $20,840 |
| London, UK | £78,216 | £106,873 | Data $28,657 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$134,265 | CA$177,211 | Data $42,946 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Data Scientist or Network Engineer earn more?+
A Network Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Data Scientist is $120,230/year, compared to $134,050/year for a Network Engineer — a difference of $13,820 (11%).
Which has better career growth — Data Scientist or Network Engineer?+
Data Scientist roles are growing at 36% YoY while Network Engineer demand is growing at 6% YoY. Data Scientist has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Data Scientist to Network Engineer?+
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 Network Engineer?+
Data Scientist has a lower AI automation risk (40% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.