Data Scientist vs Software Engineer salary
In Canada, a data scientist earns about 6% more than a software engineer — $124,248 vs $117,189 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CAD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Scientist$124,248/yr
- Monthly
- $10,378
- Hourly
- $60
- Range
- $77,302–$181,642
- 10-yr outlook
- +35%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Scientist | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $77,302 | $74,972 |
| 25th | $100,740 | $96,081 |
| Median | $124,248 | $117,189 |
| 75th | $152,981 | $142,956 |
| Senior (90th) | $181,642 | $168,723 |
National Canada figures in CAD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data scientist or software engineer earn more in Canada?
- A data scientist earns more, at about $176,000 per year vs $166,000 for a software engineer — roughly 6% ($10,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Canada?
- A data scientist typically earns $109,500–$257,300, while a software engineer earns $106,200–$239,000 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Canada?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data scientist averages about $14,700 and a software engineer about $13,800.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Canada, a data scientist earns about $109,500 while a software engineer earns about $106,200 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Canada, a data scientist earns about $257,300 while a software engineer earns about $239,000 per year.
- Are data scientist and software engineer similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.