Pay by Role
China · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Data Scientist salary

In China, a backend developer earns about 13% more than a data scientist $111,505 vs $98,821 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CNY). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Technology
Backend Developer
$111,505/yr
Monthly
$9,292
Hourly
$54
Range
$71,357$160,561
10-yr outlook
+16%
Technology
Data Scientist
$98,821/yr
Monthly
$8,230
Hourly
$47
Range
$61,461$144,470
10-yr outlook
+35%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperData Scientist
Entry (10th)$71,357$61,461
25th$91,431$80,148
Median$111,505$98,821
75th$136,033$121,653
Senior (90th)$160,561$144,470

National China figures in CNY. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or data scientist earn more in China?
A backend developer earns more, at about ¥756,000 per year vs ¥670,000 for a data scientist — roughly 13% (¥86,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in China?
A backend developer typically earns ¥483,800–¥1,088,600, while a data scientist earns ¥416,700–¥979,500 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in China?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about ¥63,000 and a data scientist about ¥55,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in China, a backend developer earns about ¥483,800 while a data scientist earns about ¥416,700 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in China, a backend developer earns about ¥1,088,600 while a data scientist earns about ¥979,500 per year.
Are backend developer and data scientist 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.