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.

$165,062/yr

Typical range: $138,652 $219,266

P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Data Scientist Salary Progression in Washington DC

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$118,565$9,880
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$146,463$12,205+24%
Mid-LevelThis page4 yrs4 yrs$165,062$13,755+39%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$191,100$15,925+61%
Staff10 yrs10 yrs$258,054$21,505+118%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$323,614$26,968+173%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$340,004$28,334+187%
Current Salary
$165,062
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $79/hr
Next Level Target
$191,100
Senior · 6
+$26Kpotential 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 $165K 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 $165K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $79/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 $219K–$270K/yr.