TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Data Scientist Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$159,157/yr
Typical range: $133,692 – $211,423
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Data Scientist salary by experience level in Washington DC
Data Scientist Salary Progression in Washington DC
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $114,324 | $9,527 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $141,224 | $11,769 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $159,157 | $13,263 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $184,264 | $15,355 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $248,824 | $20,735 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $312,038 | $26,003 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $327,842 | $27,320 | +187% |
Current Salary
$159,157
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $77/hr
Next Level Target
$184,264
Senior · 6
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
74/100
Above Average
+36% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Data Scientist salary in Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Data Scientists in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $159K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Data Scientist make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $159K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $77/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Data Scientist in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Data Scientist in Washington DC, DC earns $211K–$260K/yr.