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South Africa

Data scientist salary in South Africa in 2026

Gross, net, employer cost, and ranges by seniority.

Data scientist salary in South Africa in 2026

A senior Data scientist in South Africa earns a median of 140,000 ZAR gross monthly, around 7,053 €. Total employer cost is roughly 7,194 € monthly, including employer contributions. Levels range from junior to senior per the grid below.

Salaries by seniority in South Africa

SeniorityMedian gross≈ EURp10p90
Junior45,000 ZAR2,267 €32,000 ZAR62,000 ZAR
Mid-level78,000 ZAR3,930 €60,000 ZAR105,000 ZAR
Senior140,000 ZAR7,053 €105,000 ZAR185,000 ZAR

Indicative EUR conversion using the rate dated 2026-05-07. Use the calculator for a complete net pay and contributions simulation.

How to read Data scientist salaries in South Africa

The median divides observed pay into two equal groups. The p10 and p90 percentiles show a market range that is more useful than a single average.

In the available references, monthly gross pay runs from 45,000 ZAR at junior level to 140,000 ZAR at senior level.

Net salary then depends on employee contributions, taxable income and individual circumstances. Employer cost adds employer contributions to gross salary.

See contributions, taxes and employment rules in South Africa

Recruiting a Data scientist in South Africa requires understanding gaps between posted salary, net pay, and total employer cost. Observed median is 140,000 ZAR gross monthly, around 7,053 €.

Profiles are available at competitive conditions, with overall employer cost around 7,194 € for a senior, including local social contributions. South Africa benefits from a structured regulatory framework and a growing talent pool.

This page details junior to senior levels, salary ranges, and the contributions/income tax breakdown for Data scientist in South Africa in 2026.

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Methodology & sources·All figures are indicative.