Computer & Information Research Scientist Salary in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara
Conducts research on fundamental computer and information science problems and develops new technology.
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ranks #30 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer & information research scientist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $38,379 above the national average.
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $127,712 | $89,333 | +$38,379 | +43.0% |
| Level II | $164,403 | $113,349 | +$51,054 | +45.0% |
| Level III (Mid) | $201,094 | $137,363 | +$63,731 | +46.4% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $237,786 | $161,379 | +$76,407 | +47.3% |
Other metros in California
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merced | $127,088 | $237,598 | $201,115 |
| Fresno | $126,443 | $237,099 | $200,574 |
| Salinas | $125,986 | $236,766 | $200,200 |
| Modesto | $112,320 | $225,035 | $187,845 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $112,112 | $224,890 | $187,678 |
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What is the average computer & information research scientist salary in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara?
The average computer & information research scientist salary in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara is $201,469 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara at rank #30 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level computer & information research scientists earn in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara?
Entry-level computer & information research scientists (Level I) in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara earn $127,712 per year. Level II (early career) earns $164,403, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara compare to the national average for computer & information research scientist salaries?
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ranks #30 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer & information research scientist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $38,379 above the national average. The national average computer & information research scientist salary is $137,605, while San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara workers average $201,469 — a difference of +46% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 15-1221.