Data Scientists Salary in Charlotte, NC-SC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC

Median annual salary $131,110 +16.4% vs national
Median hourly $63.03
10th percentile $72,270
90th percentile $183,760
Employed locally 3,870
National median $112,590

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Data Scientists
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    In Charlotte, NC-SC, data scientists typically earn a median annual salary of $131,110, which is notably higher than the national median for this occupation at $112,590. This reflects the high demand and specialized skills required in the field within this metropolitan area. When compared to the local household income, with an area median of $80,201, data scientists earn significantly more, underscoring their vital role in driving technological advancement and innovation across industries. The substantial difference between what data scientists earn and the average household income highlights the lucrative nature of careers in data science within this region.

    For entry-level data scientists in Charlotte, NC-SC, salaries start around the 10th percentile mark at $72,270 annually, while those with significant experience can expect to earn upwards of $183,760 annually, which represents the 90th percentile. This wide salary range is primarily driven by a combination of factors including level of expertise, specific industry demands, and individual skill sets such as proficiency in machine learning or big data technologies. Experience plays a critical role; seasoned professionals often command higher salaries due to their ability to manage complex projects and drive business insights more effectively. Additionally, the local unemployment rate of 3.60% suggests a competitive job market where experienced candidates are particularly valued for their proven track record and specialized knowledge.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $72,270
    25th
    $99,860
    50th (median)
    $131,110
    75th
    $161,530
    90th
    $183,760

    Charlotte economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.60% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,201 2023 • Census ACS
    Data Scientists salary vs area income 163% Median Data Scientists salary is 63% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Data Scientists make per hour in Charlotte?

    The median hourly wage for Data Scientists in Charlotte, NC-SC is $63.03, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $82.31 or more per hour.

    Is Charlotte above or below average for Data Scientists salaries?

    The median Data Scientists salary in Charlotte, NC-SC is 16.4% above the national median of $112,590. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Data Scientists in Charlotte?

    Entry-level Data Scientists (10th percentile) earn around $72,270 per year in Charlotte, NC-SC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $99,860.