H-1B Data Scientist Salary in Washington (2024)
Prevailing wages, top employers, and LCA data for H-1B data scientists in Washington.
Key Notes for Washington
Amazon Data Science Volume
Amazon alone accounts for an estimated 35–40% of Washington state DS H-1B filings. Roles span product analytics, supply chain modeling, and Alexa/AWS AI.
No State Income Tax
Washington DS workers keep significantly more take-home than California counterparts — at $142K, savings are ~$12K–14K/yr.
Microsoft Research
Microsoft Research in Redmond is a world-class research lab with cap-exempt potential for research scientist roles. Offers both cap-subject and cap-exempt pathways.
Highest DS Wages Outside Bay Area
Seattle MSA prevailing wages for DS are second only to San Francisco. Level IV DS wages in Seattle exceed $178K.
Top H-1B Employers
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Google Kirkland
- Meta Bellevue
- Tableau
- Expedia
- Zillow
- Convoy
- Qualtrics
- T-Mobile
Top Cities in Washington
- Seattle
- Bellevue
- Redmond
- Kirkland
- Bothell
- Issaquah
- Renton
- Tacoma
- Spokane
- Bellevue
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prevailing wage for H-1B data scientists in Washington state?
DOL prevailing wages for Data Scientists (SOC 15-2051) in Seattle MSA range from ~$104K (Level I) to ~$178K (Level IV). Median LCA wage is approximately $142,000.
Does Amazon sponsor data scientists on H-1B visas?
Yes, at very high volume. Amazon is one of the top 3 H-1B sponsors for data science roles in the US. Amazon also runs an active PERM pipeline, which is critical for Indian and Chinese nationals.
Is Microsoft Research cap-exempt for data scientists?
Microsoft Research Redmond operates as part of Microsoft Corporation, which is cap-subject. However, individual research scientist roles may qualify for cap exemption if they work directly for a qualifying university-affiliated project. Consult an immigration attorney.
How does Seattle compare to the Bay Area for H-1B data scientists?
Seattle offers comparable wages (within 5–8%), no state income tax, and lower housing costs than SF. The primary downside is fewer employer options — Amazon and Microsoft dominate.
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