Accountant vs Data Scientist
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Data Scientist earns 20% more than Accountant
Median R 42 000/month vs R 35 000/month — a R 7 000/month difference
Accountant
R 420 000/year
59% above SA workforce median
Data Scientist
R 504 000/year
91% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Accountant | Data Scientist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 18 000 | R 22 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 35 000 | R 42 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 62 000 | R 70 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Accountant
Strong and consistent demand — every entity that prepares financial statements needs an accountant. Automation is shifting routine bookkeeping to software but increasing demand for analytical and advisory accounting skills.
Data Scientist
Data scientists remain one of the most sought-after professionals in SA, with demand from banks, fintechs, and international remote roles all contributing to a talent shortage.
See your actual take-home pay
Enter any gross salary to calculate PAYE, UIF, and net pay after deductions.
Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Accountant or a Data Scientist in South Africa?▾
A Data Scientist earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Data Scientist is R 42 000/month, compared to R 35 000/month for a Accountant — a difference of R 7 000/month (20% higher).
What is the Accountant salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Accountant salary in South Africa is R 35 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 15 000–R 22 000/month, mid-level pays R 28 000–R 45 000/month, and senior roles pay R 50 000–R 80 000/month.
What is the Data Scientist salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Data Scientist salary in South Africa is R 42 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 28 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 55 000–R 95 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Accountant or Data Scientist?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.