Data Scientist vs Software Engineer salary
In India, a data scientist earns about 20% more than a software engineer — $28,170 vs $23,457 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is INR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Scientist$28,170/yr
- Monthly
- $2,348
- Hourly
- $14
- Range
- $17,522–$41,184
- 10-yr outlook
- +35%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Scientist | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $17,522 | $15,013 |
| 25th | $22,846 | $19,235 |
| Median | $28,170 | $23,457 |
| 75th | $34,677 | $28,618 |
| Senior (90th) | $41,184 | $33,778 |
National India figures in INR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data scientist or software engineer earn more in India?
- A data scientist earns more, at about ₹26,90,000 per year vs ₹22,40,000 for a software engineer — roughly 20% (₹4,50,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in India?
- A data scientist typically earns ₹16,73,200–₹39,32,800, while a software engineer earns ₹14,33,600–₹32,25,600 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in India?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data scientist averages about ₹2,24,200 and a software engineer about ₹1,86,700.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in India, a data scientist earns about ₹16,73,200 while a software engineer earns about ₹14,33,600 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in India, a data scientist earns about ₹39,32,800 while a software engineer earns about ₹32,25,600 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.