Data Scientist vs Software Engineer salary
In United Kingdom, a data scientist earns about 6% more than a software engineer — $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
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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
| Percentile | Data Scientist | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $83,134 | $80,858 |
| 25th | $108,435 | $103,616 |
| Median | $133,737 | $126,374 |
| 75th | $164,661 | $154,219 |
| Senior (90th) | $195,585 | $181,930 |
National United Kingdom figures in GBP. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data scientist or software engineer earn more in United Kingdom?
- A data scientist earns more, at about £99,900 per year vs £94,400 for a software engineer — roughly 6% (£5,500) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United Kingdom?
- A data scientist typically earns £62,100–£146,100, while a software engineer earns £60,400–£135,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United Kingdom?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data scientist averages about £8,300 and a software engineer about £7,900.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United Kingdom, a data scientist earns about £62,100 while a software engineer earns about £60,400 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United Kingdom, a data scientist earns about £146,100 while a software engineer earns about £135,900 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.