Pay by Role
United Kingdom · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Data Scientist salary

In United Kingdom, a data scientist earns about 6% more than a backend developer $133,737 vs $126,374 per year.

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

Technology
Backend Developer
$126,374/yr
Monthly
$10,576
Hourly
$60
Range
$80,858$181,930
10-yr outlook
+16%
Pays more
Technology
Data Scientist
$133,737/yr
Monthly
$11,111
Hourly
$64
Range
$83,134$195,585
10-yr outlook
+35%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperData Scientist
Entry (10th)$80,858$83,134
25th$103,616$108,435
Median$126,374$133,737
75th$154,219$164,661
Senior (90th)$181,930$195,585

National United Kingdom figures in GBP. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or data scientist earn more in United Kingdom?
A data scientist earns more, at about £99,900 per year vs £94,400 for a backend developer — roughly 6% (£5,500) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United Kingdom?
A backend developer typically earns £60,400–£135,900, while a data scientist earns £62,100–£146,100 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United Kingdom?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about £7,900 and a data scientist about £8,300.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United Kingdom, a backend developer earns about £60,400 while a data scientist earns about £62,100 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United Kingdom, a backend developer earns about £135,900 while a data scientist earns about £146,100 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.