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Job outlook for analysts in the United States
Analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected analyst job growth rate is 11% from 2018-2028.
About 108,400 new jobs for analysts are projected over the next decade.
Analyst salaries have increased 8% for analysts in the last 5 years.
There are over 304,460 analysts currently employed in the United States.
There are 253,138 active analyst job openings in the US.
The average analyst salary is $73,007.
Are analyst jobs in demand?
Analyst job and salary trends over time
Analyst jobs over time
Analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 304,460 | 0.09% |
| 2020 | 309,042 | 0.09% |
| 2019 | 267,916 | 0.08% |
| 2018 | 300,247 | 0.09% |
| 2017 | 293,306 | 0.09% |
Average analyst salary over time
Analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $73,007 | $35.10 | +2.8% |
| 2025 | $71,008 | $34.14 | +2.0% |
| 2024 | $69,634 | $33.48 | +1.4% |
| 2023 | $68,668 | $33.01 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $67,735 | $32.57 | +0.0% |
Analyst jobs by state
Most common states for analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 2,197 | 317% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 6,892 | 81% |
| 3 | Delaware | 961,939 | 661 | 69% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 3,884 | 64% |
| 5 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 4,054 | 59% |
| 6 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 587 | 55% |
| 7 | Vermont | 623,657 | 325 | 52% |
| 8 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 2,604 | 46% |
| 9 | Alaska | 739,795 | 340 | 46% |
| 10 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 1,390 | 45% |
| 11 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 2,347 | 42% |
| 12 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 800 | 42% |
| 13 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 569 | 42% |
| 14 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,712 | 41% |
| 15 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 313 | 41% |
| 16 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 237 | 41% |
| 17 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 4,979 | 39% |
| 18 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 561 | 39% |
| 19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 399 | 38% |
| 20 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 3,336 | 37% |
Most common cities for analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 40 | 101% | $76,607 |
| 2 | Lansing | 49 | 42% | $67,308 |
| 3 | Tallahassee | 26 | 14% | $61,717 |
| 4 | Huntsville | 23 | 12% | $68,567 |
| 5 | Little Rock | 21 | 11% | $52,525 |
| 6 | Washington | 68 | 10% | $82,785 |
| 7 | Atlanta | 45 | 10% | $70,703 |
| 8 | Tampa | 32 | 8% | $62,659 |
| 9 | Baton Rouge | 19 | 8% | $62,270 |
| 10 | Boston | 49 | 7% | $78,764 |
| 11 | Urban Honolulu | 20 | 6% | $66,558 |
| 12 | Sacramento | 20 | 4% | $81,845 |
| 13 | Indianapolis | 26 | 3% | $59,611 |
| 14 | Denver | 23 | 3% | $69,577 |
| 15 | Chicago | 41 | 2% | $70,397 |
| 16 | Phoenix | 32 | 2% | $66,640 |
| 17 | Los Angeles | 31 | 1% | $76,529 |
| 18 | New York | 21 | 0% | $81,871 |
Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of analyst experts
UMass Lowell
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Merrimack College
University of Northern Iowa
University of Cincinnati Clermont College
University of North Dakota
Saint John Fisher College
Western Kentucky University
University of La Verne
Southern Connecticut State University
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator, Masters of Science in EntrepreneurshipUMass Lowell
Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Remember that your first job does not define your career. You may build a career around that first job or you may use it as a valuable learning experience to change careers at some point. Eventually, what we call our careers are only really seen in hindsight. They are part of a narrative we construct about ourselves. So, don't worry to much about whether you are on the 'right path'. The right path is the one you chose at the time given the constraints and alternatives before you. But make the most of every opportunity you can to learn more about yourself - what you like, what you don't like, and what you find fulfilling about your work.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Obviously we are seeing a tremendous increase in AI and other digital technologies. These will become a more crucial skill set for many careers going forward. But I wouldn't downplay the role of what are traditionally seen as soft skills like empathy, communications, and judgment. Not only can these distinguish you from robots but from your human competitors as well.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: If all you want is the highest potential starting salary, then you should aim for careers that offer them. But that is a shortsighted way to view things. For example, many careers that have tournament-like pay structures (think entertainment) often have very low starting salaries but the so-called winners enjoy outsized financial gains. If you are thinking about a more traditional career, I think it's important to make sure you are more valuable to your employer than they are to you. This means you have to market yourself, both to your current employer as well as to potential ones. Of course, this approach may not be for everyone and maximizing your salary potential is only one thing you should be considering when assessing job and career opportunities.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Swagata Banerjee PhD: Digital literacy: As technology continues to evolve, proficiency in digital tools and platforms will become increasingly essential. Adaptability: The ability to quickly learn new skills and adapt to changing circumstances will be crucial in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. Data literacy: Understanding and analyzing data will become more important for making informed decisions and optimizing strategies. Interdisciplinary skills: The ability to work across different disciplines and collaborate effectively with diverse teams will be highly valued. Emotional intelligence: Soft skills such as empathy, communication, and teamwork will continue to be in demand as workplaces become more interconnected and dynamic.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Reshad Osmani PhD: As a new graduate starting your career, I recommend staying curious, being open to learning from others, seeking feedback, building networks, and being proactive in tackling challenges. Keep developing your analytical skills, stay adaptable, and remember that mistakes are opportunities for growth. Learning by doing should be your number one priority.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Reshad Osmani PhD: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career, consider the following strategies: negotiate your starting salary based on market research, demonstrate your value through accomplishments, seek out opportunities for advancement and growth, continuously improve your skills, consider additional certifications or degrees, and be willing to explore job opportunities that offer competitive compensation packages.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Reshad Osmani PhD: In the next 3-5 years, skills like data analysis, digital literacy, adaptability, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are likely to become even more important across various fields due to the increasing influence of technology, automation, and remote work trends. Additionally, skills related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and sustainability may also gain prominence.
Renee Robinson Ph.D.
Professor of CommunicationWhat general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: How can you maximize your salary potential when starting your career in your field?
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: What skills do you think will become more important and prevalent in the field in the next 3-5 years?
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: That would be awesome! We were hoping you could answer the following questions: 1. What general advice would you give to a graduate beginning their career in the field?
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): Skills that will become more important in the future are understanding quality measures. Six Sigma Lean principles are very applicable to what we do and help to keep a balanced workflow. A second thing is to understand that you and your coworkers are human. Find resilience tools that help you to keep a calm focus and practice good communication. Stay connected to national organizations for articles and training to stay connected to the future.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): To maximize your salary potential, obtain some experience while you are in school. If there is a clinic to volunteer at or a student job in a lab, take it. Higher pay is almost always offered to the evening and night shift technicians. If your new workplace is on 8-hour nights or evenings, create a schedule where evenings and nights do 10s or 12s and suggest it to the leadership. This makes a much better work-life balance.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): As a new graduate, remember why you decided on this career. Was it because you liked to help people? Then remember your results are improving the quality of life for another person. Is it because you like detective work? Then view each sample as a puzzle to work through. Is it because you want to further your education? Then never stop learning.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Marilyn Krogh: Statistical and communication skills are always in demand, and familiarity with a little AI would be a bonus.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Marilyn Krogh: Know yourself—take time to identify and name your own strengths, interests and priorities in your work life. Take advantage of the services from your university career development center.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Marilyn Krogh: Have a strong undergraduate portfolio, do an internship before graduation, and be willing to 'go an extra mile' for your employer.
Angel Armenta
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Angel Armenta: Thank you! By when would you need the response ? Can I submit my responses in written format or is this an oral interview ?
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adam Roth: I recommend that students start by identifying a specific skill in demand within your field, such as data analysis or social media marketing, and focus on developing expertise in that area. Research salary ranges and living costs in particular areas where you’re interested in working to ensure your compensation aligns with the local market. Always negotiate a salary and consider other aspects of the offer, such as funds for continuing education, technology and more. Continuing to network and establish demand for your services is essential; attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage with professionals in your field. Never miss an opportunity to reach out to and check in with your professional contacts. Pursue additional learning opportunities and education, such as certifications or advanced degrees, to provide a competitive advantage and increase your earning potential over time.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: Once you have your first job, ask about or determine the 20% of your supervisor’s job that they hate and start doing that for them. They will love you for it and it will quickly get you recognition. You’ll also be well on your way to learning your boss’s job. Continue doing this as you progress in your career (Kudos to Theo Epstein, former GM for the Red Sox, for this recommendation)
No matter the task you’re given, do it to the absolute best of your abilities. In the professional world, you may often be given menial tasks or tasks that you don’t believe are part of your job description. Doing those tasks to the absolute best of your ability leads to increased trust, recognition and responsibility and will put you “above class.” If asked, the coffee you bring should be the best your boss has ever had. You never know who’s watching.
Don’t expect credit and don’t ask for credit when things go right; give the credit to others.
Keith Kerr Prof.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Keith Kerr Prof.: There are two approaches to maximizing your salary potential, but only one approach that is completely under our control. While we can learn the best ways to approach employers to advocate for raises and promotions, the outcome of this is dependent on many external factors. What you can control, however, is how you manage the money that you do make. Taking the time to make a detailed budget of your income, expenses and debts allows one to find ways to control their spending, thus generating extra cash for saving and investing each month.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Keith Kerr Prof.: There are two basic ways that most people in the US find financial success: Either find a job that pays a high salary, or find a career that you love, regardless of the salary, and make a habit of saving and investing part of your income each month starting with your first paycheck.
If you invest only $90 a month starting at 21 and ending at retirement, you would have a bit over 1 million dollars (assuming a 10% annual gain). Wait just 5 years and start doing this at 26 and your 5 years of time will have cost you $400,000 by retirement. This is the power of compounding. Start early and even with a lower salary, you still can find financial success while pursuing careers that are meaningful to you.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Keith Kerr Prof.: Grant writing is perhaps the most important skill for sociology majors to acquire. Not all sociology programs offer such skills (luckily my department at Quinnipiac does), but all sociology programs offer courses in research methodology. These skills are all skills that are needed to successfully write grants.
More so, with the research skills and practice in grant writing, one is in a position to approach potential employers as a hire that will more than pay for itself in the grant money that the potential employee can bring into the organization.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Zhu Mao: It is exciting if someone just finished his/her schools and that is a big achievement, but I would still suggest as the first priority: do not stop learning. This may be a different set of knowledges to learn, maybe more practical, maybe not related with the major per se. Education doesn’t end here, and they want to stay on top of the industry trend and may learning new advancements through conferences and MOOCs too. Another suggestion I have is to start building up a network, and in 10, 20, and 30 years, they will find out that these professional relationships are critical to their career path and a lot of time, mentorship just happens without you realize it. Network can be strengthened both in and out of work, sometimes professional associations help a lot too. In addition, communication skills and leadership abilities cannot be more important succeeding the career. The last one would be embracing uncertainties and challenges. As a student, most of the problems have answers and professors will know the answers before you start solving the problems, while at work, it will be complete a different story. Don’t shy away from the challenges and don’t be discouraged if something didn’t work out as you thought due to many uncontrollable factors.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Zhu Mao: Specifically in the next 3-5 years, I would say it is the critical thinking and problem solving capability in interdisciplinary areas. Employers will increasingly value individuals who can think critically, analyze complex situations, and propose effective solutions in the cutting edge of multiple disciplines, especially those demonstrating adaptability and resilience in the era of data science.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Zhu Mao: Find yourself a good platform and demonstrate your irreplaceability. New challenges always coming out from the interdisciplinary area and continuous learning will not only enhance the capability, but also demonstrate the commitment to professional growth and engagement to the field.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Melissa Zimdars: To remember that you're going to learn a lot on the job and that failure is part of the learning process. It's okay to ask questions and to not know things, but you must be willing to take feedback, adjust, and grow.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Melissa Zimdars: - The ability to communicate effectively is an evergreen skill that only seems to be getting more important as the number of ways we communicate with each other, our supervisors, and with clients or outside stakeholders keeps expanding. - The ability to adapt to and learn how to navigate new technologies and platforms.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Melissa Zimdars: Recognize that your first career opportunity won't be your last. If the job you land after college does not have opportunities for growth or advancement, it's imperative that you keep an eye out for them elsewhere as you continue to gain experience in your field.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Zhengyang Chen He / him: As a new graduate in economics, it's important to recognize the versatility of your degree. While you may not find many job postings explicitly requiring 'economics' as a skill, the discipline provides a robust foundation for various careers in the business world. Don't be discouraged if some people perceive economics as impractical; instead, focus on the valuable skills you've developed. Your training in critical thinking, economic modeling, and conceptual analysis equips you with a unique perspective that can be applied to diverse professional contexts. Use these skills to rapidly adapt to new work environments, acquire additional competencies, and navigate complex business situations. Your economics background gives you a distinct advantage in understanding market dynamics and decision-making processes, which are valuable in numerous industries.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Zhengyang Chen He / him: In the past three decades and foreseeable future, data analytics skills are likely to become increasingly crucial in the economics field. This trend necessitates a strong foundation in statistics, probability theory, coding, and data visualization. The synergy between economics and data analytics is becoming more pronounced; economic theory provides the framework to interpret data meaningfully, while data analytics offers new avenues to test and refine economic models. Proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, familiarity with machine learning techniques, and the ability to communicate insights through effective data visualization will be highly sought after. These skills will not only make you more competitive in the job market but also enable you to contribute more substantially to economic research and policy analysis.
Fawen Zhang PhD
Professor of AudiologyUniversity of Cincinnati Clermont College
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
Yvette Koepke
Associate Dean for Academic SuccessUniversity of North Dakota
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, And Group Studies
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Yvette Koepke: Advice: Be open! Your knowledge and skills could be valuable to any position in any field, so don’t limit yourself to jobs with certain titles or organizations---but you need to be able to make your case. Also be open to opportunities that might arise unexpectedly through talking with people around you about your background and interests.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Yvette Koepke: Salary: Preparation is key. Prepare by taking advantage of opportunities and experiences through projects, jobs, internships, organizations, or volunteering. Prepare by doing homework about the field and the position, and research showing the value of diversity. And prepare by practicing how best to make the case for what you can contribute.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Yvette Koepke: Skills: Given the rapidly increasing rate of change in our world, human skills like emotional intelligence and innovation will become ever more important. Your background will help you make connections and work well with others, and think creatively and critically by considering various perspectives.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Yi Liu Ph.D., CFP®: Interpersonal skills are increasingly important. It is no longer just about crunching numbers. The capacity to communicate effectively, collaborate successfully in a team, and adjust to change is equally important. Furthermore, the ability to properly use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to supplement your work will be a huge advantage. Furthermore, emotional intelligence—the ability to manage complicated interpersonal dynamics with empathy and understanding—is extremely significant.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Yi Liu Ph.D., CFP®: The first step is to find a career you are passionate about. When you love what you do, it shows, and it distinguishes you from others. It's about discovering your distinctive edge, something you excel at and can use to get a competitive advantage. Also, remember to negotiate your offer. Know your worth and the going rate for your position. And specialize—having a specialized area of expertise can significantly increase your value in the employment market. These strategic actions have the potential to significantly alter your early career trajectory.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Yi Liu Ph.D., CFP®: Having grit is more important than you may realize because facing challenges and barriers is part of the process. There will be bumps and hurdles. But what important is that you do not give up. It's okay not to have all of the answers on the first day. Be curious, ask questions, and delve deeply into learning about your profession. It can take up to 6,000 hours to completely master a field. So, allow yourself the opportunity to learn and grow. Enjoy the journey, not the destination. That's where the true learning occurs.
Xiaowen Chen Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorWestern Kentucky University
Psychology
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Xiaowen Chen Ph.D.: New graduates are recommended to consider whether the company/organization can provide career development opportunities, a learning-oriented organizational culture, transparency in decision-making, and equal accessibility to information. Leadership with an ethical and open mindset and adherence to high standards of professional conduct are super important.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Xiaowen Chen Ph.D.: Present your knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience by showing your research and applied projects so that employers will know what you have accomplished and the potential value you can bring to their organization.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Xiaowen Chen Ph.D.: · Don’t stop learning new skills, technologies, and knowledge. Your skillsets and knowledge should continuously develop in line with the rapidly changing world. There isn't a single skill or certificate that can keep you competitive for years. · You may not be a computer scientist or data scientist, it's beneficial to understand the basics of machine learning and artificial intelligence and try to use AI-assistant tools.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
William Luse PhD.: I advise graduates to remain open to new opportunities, even those that might not initially seem aligned with their career goals. Often, the most valuable chances for skill development and growth emerge from the most unexpected places. Approach the unfamiliar with open arms, as it could lead you down a path to success you hadn't considered.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
William Luse PhD.: While mastering artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important, I believe the timeless skills of effective communication will remain critical. Whether it's crafting clear emails, delivering impactful presentations, or engaging in meaningful conversations, these skills are indispensable across all career paths. Another skill that will become crucial is learning to interact with AI through conversational prompts. This ability to communicate effectively with AI not only enhances your productivity but also opens up new avenues for leveraging technology in innovative ways.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
William Luse PhD.: Begin with two strategies to maximize your salary: negotiation and openness. First, become an informed negotiator by researching compensation trends and the value of specific skills in your field. This preparation is essential long before actual salary discussions occur, and often pays off immensely. Second, embrace opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone. By engaging in new experiences, you not only gain valuable skills but also build relationships that are crucial for sustainable career advancement and higher compensation.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Zheni Wang Ph.D.: Being an intrapreneur is the way to maximize your salary potential when starting your career in your field.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Zheni Wang Ph.D.: I think the most important and prevalent skill in the field in the next 3-5 years is unlearning and learning continuously. We are living in an era of change now. Having a degree in business shows your ability to learn. But the best competitiveness you can reserve for yourself is to unlearn what others have done (i.e., the case studies and benchmarks you’ve been given in the classroom) and learn to create new standards and solutions when facing constant changes in the business world. By doing so, you can create values for others to remain successful.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Zheni Wang Ph.D.: For people who just graduated with a degree in business and are starting their careers in the field, my best advice includes being fearless, proactive, and future-oriented.
1. Act bravely when you are young and less experienced. This means finding ways to be heard about your ideas, values, and ethical principles.
2. Work proactively when not assigned important roles. This means you must actively observe, critically think, and constantly learn at the workplace. If you absorb and immerse yourself in the daily work, you will shine whenever a light is on you.
3. Plan the future as if the past shaped who you are now. This means working as if you’ve been teleported from the future, where you want to be will guide you clearly in what and how to do today.
What general advice would you give to an Analyst?
Kalisha Waldon Ph.D.: Stay committed to lifelong learning. Build Meaningful Relationships. Give Yourself Grace.
What Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kalisha Waldon Ph.D.: Digital literacy, cultural competence, inclusivity.
What will help Analysts increase their earning potential?
Kalisha Waldon Ph.D.: Set goals, consider cost of living, return to school or obtain additional certifications.