Data Scientist Salary in South Africa
What is the Pay by Experience Level for Data Scientists?
Data Scientist salaries in South Africa are significantly influenced by experience:
Less than 1 year: Entry-level Data Scientists can expect an average total pay of R364,803.
1-4 years: Early career Data Scientists earn about R452,312.
5-9 years: Mid-career professionals see an average salary of R627k.
10-19 years: Late career Data Scientists can earn up to R916k, showcasing substantial growth in earning potential.
What Do Data Scientists Do?
Data Scientists analyze complex data to find trends and answer questions, which involves the use of both statistical and software tools. They play a critical role in predicting trends and informing business strategies.
Find your market worth – how it works:
To determine your market worth as a Data Scientist:
- Input your location and experience to adjust for regional and career-level variations.
- Include skills and educational background to refine the estimation.
- Receive a tailored report that helps you understand your position in the market and negotiate accordingly.
Common Health Benefits for a Data Scientist
Health benefits vary widely:
- Medical: 41% have medical insurance.
- Dental and Vision: Only 8% receive dental or vision.
- No Benefits: Surprisingly, 59% report receiving no health benefits.
What Are Popular Skills for Data Scientists?
Key skills impacting salaries include:
- Python: R460,708
- Data Analysis: R462,535
- Machine Learning: R458,482
- Statistical Analysis: R435,890
- R: R389,984
Proficiency in Python and Data Analysis tends to yield higher pay, while R and Statistical Analysis are less lucrative.
Skills That Affect Data Scientist Salaries
- SAS: +16% salary increase.
- Microsoft SQL Server: +8%.
- Big Data Analytics: +4%.
- SQL and Data Mining: +3% each.
- Data Analysis: +1%.
Popular Career Paths for Data Scientists
Career progression for Data Scientists often leads to senior roles, where knowledge and experience in advanced analytics and management are highly valued.
FAQs About Data Scientists
- Highest salary in Johannesburg: ZAR 741k/year.
- Lowest salary in Johannesburg: ZAR 221k/year.
Data Scientist Salaries By Location
In Cape Town, Western Cape, Data Scientist salaries are generally consistent with the national average, showing no significant cost of living adjustment.
Popular Employers for Data Scientists
Top employers include:
- Absa: Avg. Salary R629,789
- First National Bank: Avg. Salary R625,000
- FNB: Avg. Salary R522,251
- Nedbank: Avg. Salary R484,000
- Standard Bank: Avg. Salary R505,500
- Telesure: Avg. Salary R410,803
Data Scientist Related Job Salaries
- Data Analyst: R115k — R549k
- Software Developer: R134k — R620k
- Quantitative Analyst: R355k — R770k
- Software Engineer: R187k — R712k
- Actuarial Analyst: R301k — R663k
- BI Analyst: R200k — R687k
- IT Business Analyst: R174k — R700k
- Senior Software Engineer: R408k — R1m
- Data Engineer: R179k — R806k
This comprehensive overview provides a detailed look into the financial and professional landscape for Data Scientists in South Africa in 2025-2026, helping current and aspiring professionals navigate their career paths effectively.
