Data Scientist vs Software Engineer salary
In South Africa, a data scientist earns about 9% more than a software engineer — $63,598 vs $58,094 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is ZAR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Scientist$63,598/yr
- Monthly
- $5,302
- Hourly
- $31
- Range
- $39,559–$92,981
- 10-yr outlook
- +35%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Scientist | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $39,559 | $37,180 |
| 25th | $51,575 | $47,637 |
| Median | $63,598 | $58,094 |
| 75th | $78,287 | $70,875 |
| Senior (90th) | $92,981 | $83,656 |
National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data scientist or software engineer earn more in South Africa?
- A data scientist earns more, at about R 1 040 000 per year vs R 950 000 for a software engineer — roughly 9% (R 90 000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
- A data scientist typically earns R 646 900–R 1 520 500, while a software engineer earns R 608 000–R 1 368 000 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data scientist averages about R 86 700 and a software engineer about R 79 200.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a data scientist earns about R 646 900 while a software engineer earns about R 608 000 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a data scientist earns about R 1 520 500 while a software engineer earns about R 1 368 000 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.