Data Analyst Career Paths & Salary

Our Data Analyst Career Guide Series:

Data Analyst Overview
Data Analyst Skills & Tools
Data Analyst Training & Education
Data Analyst Career Path & Salary <– You Are Here
Data Analyst Portfolio & Resume
Data Analyst Interviewing

Now that you’ve seen how to become a data analyst, let’s explore the next logical question: Where will those newly acquired analytics skills take you? Get ready to dive into your most valuable data set yet, as we break down the career levels, starting salaries, and earning potentials that await you.

Data Analytics Career: Essential Pathways to Success

Wrapping your mind around the world of analytical processing can seem daunting if you don’t know a data frame from a dashboard. But, truth be told, a career in data analytics is more accessible for newcomers than you might think.

A recent survey of 800 US employers revealed that 55% of companies removed bachelor’s degree requirements for some roles in 2023, with 45% planning to do the same in 2024.

Notably, 70% of employers who dropped degree requirements did so for “information services” roles like data analyst, business intelligence analyst, and data scientist. For 70% of these employers, the shift is about creating a more diverse workforce. Additionally, four in five employers prioritize practical over formal experience, and two-thirds require candidates to complete test assignments as part of the evaluation process.

If you’re just getting started with data analysis—free classes and workshops are a great way to explore your interests, build a foundation, and determine if this field is right for you. With dedication and General Assembly’s Data Analytics Bootcamp, you could transition from beginner to a proficient data analyst in as little as 12 weeks (and even get some help preparing for those multi-part interviews).

But it’s not just beginners who benefit: while 70% of employers removed degree requirements for entry-level roles, 61% did so for mid-level roles, and 45% for senior-level roles. If you’re thinking about a career shift, comparable pay in data analysis is more accessible than you think. One self-taught Gen Zer increased his base salary 40% with a data analytics career change.

Naturally, data analytics salary expectations vary based on career stage, so let’s take a closer look.

Advancing in Data Analytics: Career Paths & Levels

From an entry-level analyst grappling with your first datasets to a senior data scientist steering complex projects, data analytics is as much a journey as it is a career. In this dynamic field—roles, expertise, and salaries vary widely, reflecting a universe of opportunities.

Entry-Level:
- 0-1 years: $60-75K
- 1-3 years: $80-100K

Mid-Career:
- 4-6 years: $110-150K
- 7-9 years: $95-130K

Senior Role:
- 10-14 years: $110-140K
- 15+ years: $120-160K

Entry-Level Data Analytics Roles

Just starting out in data analytics? As a Data Analyst or Junior Data Analyst, you’ll dive into foundational tasks like:

Data Collection & Cleaning: Pulling together data from different sources and making sure it’s spot-on for analysis.
Basic Analysis: Experimenting with tools like Excel, SQL, or basic stats software to whip up reports and insights.
Data Visualization: Crafting charts, graphs, and dashboards to make data easy to understand for everyone.
Supporting Senior Analysts: Helping out with data prep and initial analysis tasks.

Entry-level roles are perfect for getting your hands on modern analytics tools and honing your data manipulation skills.

Expect an entry-level data analytics salary between $60,000 and $75,000 a year.

Mid-Level Data Analytics Roles

Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, you might step into roles like Data Scientist, Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst, or Data Engineer. At this level, you’ll be doing:

Advanced Analysis: Using more complex tools and techniques like advanced SQL queries, statistical modeling, and predictive analytics.
Project Management: Leading data projects, keeping things on track, and making sure everything gets done on time.
Business Insights: Turning data into actionable advice for different teams or clients.
Tool Integration: Setting up and managing data tools and systems to make processes smoother.

Mid-level positions usually involve deeper analysis and more collaboration across departments.

Salaries here typically range from $80,000 to $100,000 a year.

Senior-Level Data Analytics Roles

When you reach senior levels like Lead Data Analyst, Analytics Manager, or Director of Analytics, you’re stepping up your game with:

Strategic Analysis: Leading high-stakes projects and creating strategies based on data to tackle big business challenges.
Team Leadership: Overseeing and mentoring other analysts, guiding their work, and ensuring top-notch results.
Advanced Data Modeling: Using machine learning, complex statistical models, and other advanced techniques for deeper insights.
Cross-Department Collaboration: Working closely with execs and various teams to align data strategies with company goals.

Senior roles come with bigger responsibilities and significant leadership duties. The higher you climb, the more impact you have on business decisions—and the more valuable your expertise becomes.

You can expect a data analytics manager salary ranging from $110,000 to $150,000 or more as you progress.

Diving Deep: Factors That Influence Data Analyst Salaries

Skills and years of experience are two factors in how much you can earn as a data analyst—but that’s not all. Other factors affecting your pay potential include:

Location:

Data analysts in major tech hubs like San Francisco and Seattle often see higher paychecks, with averages around $90,000 a year, due to the high cost of living and strong demand for tech talent. On the flip side, if you’re in a city with a lower cost of living, like Austin or Denver, you might earn a bit less, around $75,000 annually.

Nationwide, America’s data analytics average salary is $83,810 in base pay per year, plus $24,436 in benefits, according to Glassdoor.

With the demand for top data analysts seen around the world, you can find competitive average salaries in:

Canada: $63,430
Singapore: $49,727
United Kingdom: $46,930
The Netherlands: $72,087
Sweden: $50,955
Norway: $53,374
Germany: $67,097
Switzerland: $122,700
Israel: $60,422

General Assembly’s online courses are accessible from anywhere, putting a world of learning at your fingertips. With our global network of alumni stretching from NYC and London to Singapore and Australia, you’re connected to endless opportunities to enhance your skills, sample different industries, and land your dream job.

Industry:

If you’re in high-paying fields—like financial services, space and defense, or big tech—you’re looking at top-tier salaries. For example, data analysts working at a high-profile tech company like Google or Facebook can expect $95,000 to $110,000 per year, while those working in non-profit organizations or education might see lower salaries, from $60,000 to $70,000, reflecting the budget constraints typical of these sectors.

Company Size and Type:

Company size and type can shake up your salary expectations, too. Big tech firms and financial giants often offer competitive salaries ranging from $85,000 to $100,000, along with bonuses and stock options. Smaller companies or startups might offer a base salary around $70,000 but could provide equity or other benefits that enhance overall compensation.

Location, industry, and company size reflect just how varied data analyst salaries can be, so keep these elements in mind when weighing job offers and planning data analytics career paths.

Want To Be Part of the Data Analytics Job Growth?

If you’re drawn to data analysis by the promise of a solid salary, you’re not alone. But beyond the numbers, it’s about finding a career where you can truly thrive. And the outlook for data analysts is shining bright: the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 23% growth in data analytics jobs from 2022 to 2032.

Whether you’re interested in becoming a data analyst or leveling up to a senior data analytics salary, the road ahead is all about continuous learning.

Check out General Assembly’s free workshops and events, or get a bootcamp preview with our Data Analytics Short Course to get a preview of what’s involved. If you’re ready to commit, our new part-time Data Analytics Bootcamp or our full-time Data Analytics Bootcamp offer comprehensive training in just 12 weeks.

For more insights, explore our blogs on:

By investing in your education and honing your skills, you’ll tap into the exciting growth of the data analytics field—and pave the way for a successful tech career.

Wondering if a career in data analysis is the right move for you? Sign up for our next info session to learn more.

Data Analyst Career Path & Salary Guide