Data Scientists vs. Computer User Support Specialists: Who Earns More?
Data Scientistss out-earn Computer User Support Specialistss by $58K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Data Scientistss land at $120,230 and Computer User Support Specialistss at $61,860. The education gap is real: data scientist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while computer user support specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Data Scientistss is Washington ($163,350); for Computer User Support Specialistss it's District of Columbia ($80,950).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Data Scientists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Data Scientistss or Computer User Support Specialistss?
Data Scientistss earn more nationally. The median is $120,230 for Data Scientistss versus $61,860 for Computer User Support Specialistss, a difference of $58K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Data Scientists or Computer User Support Specialists?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Data Scientists or Computer User Support Specialists?
Data Scientists typically requires bachelor's degree. Computer User Support Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Data Scientistss get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Data Scientistss at $163,350/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Data Scientists vs. Computer User Support Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Data Scientistss earn $163,350 vs. $75,220 for Computer User Support Specialistss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.