Data Scientist vs Software Engineer salary
In New Zealand, a data scientist earns about 5% more than a software engineer — $123,213 vs $117,455 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is NZD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Scientist$123,213/yr
- Monthly
- $10,249
- Hourly
- $59
- Range
- $76,634–$180,156
- 10-yr outlook
- +35%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Scientist | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $76,634 | $75,194 |
| 25th | $99,952 | $96,325 |
| Median | $123,213 | $117,455 |
| 75th | $151,656 | $143,307 |
| Senior (90th) | $180,156 | $169,159 |
National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data scientist or software engineer earn more in New Zealand?
- A data scientist earns more, at about $214,000 per year vs $204,000 for a software engineer — roughly 5% ($10,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A data scientist typically earns $133,100–$312,900, while a software engineer earns $130,600–$293,800 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data scientist averages about $17,800 and a software engineer about $17,000.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a data scientist earns about $133,100 while a software engineer earns about $130,600 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a data scientist earns about $312,900 while a software engineer earns about $293,800 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.