Data Scientists vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developers out-earn Data Scientists by $16K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Data Scientists land at $120,230 and Software Developers at $135,980. The education gap is real: data scientist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Data Scientists is Washington ($163,350); for Software Developers it's California ($174,410).
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 Scientists or Software Developers?
Software Developers earn more nationally. The median is $120,230 for Data Scientists versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $16K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Data Scientists or Software Developers?
Data Scientists has the better 10-year outlook at 33.5% projected growth, compared to 15.8% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Data Scientists or Software Developers?
Data Scientists typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Data Scientists get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Data Scientists 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. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Data Scientists earn $163,350 vs. $166,540 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.