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Job outlook for computer programmer analysts in the United States
Computer programmer analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected computer programmer analyst job growth rate is 9% from 2018-2028.
About 56,000 new jobs for computer programmer analysts are projected over the next decade.
Computer programmer analyst salaries have increased 8% for computer programmer analysts in the last 5 years.
There are over 82,576 computer programmer analysts currently employed in the United States.
There are 47,535 active computer programmer analyst job openings in the US.
The average computer programmer analyst salary is $73,303.
Are computer programmer analyst jobs in demand?
Computer programmer analyst job and salary trends over time
Computer programmer analyst jobs over time
Computer programmer analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 82,576 | 0.02% |
| 2020 | 86,395 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 77,645 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 122,965 | 0.04% |
| 2017 | 123,689 | 0.04% |
Average computer programmer analyst salary over time
Computer programmer analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $73,303 | $35.24 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $70,887 | $34.08 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $69,282 | $33.31 | +0.5% |
| 2022 | $68,915 | $33.13 | +1.2% |
| 2021 | $68,096 | $32.74 | +1.7% |
Computer programmer analyst jobs by state
Most common states for computer programmer analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 333 | 48% |
| 2 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,031 | 17% |
| 3 | Alaska | 739,795 | 127 | 17% |
| 4 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,348 | 16% |
| 5 | Vermont | 623,657 | 92 | 15% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 873 | 13% |
| 7 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 135 | 13% |
| 8 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 73 | 13% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 163 | 12% |
| 10 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 122 | 12% |
| 11 | Delaware | 961,939 | 118 | 12% |
| 12 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 101 | 12% |
| 13 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 86 | 11% |
| 14 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 542 | 10% |
| 15 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 413 | 10% |
| 16 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 142 | 10% |
| 17 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 637 | 9% |
| 18 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 321 | 9% |
| 19 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 292 | 9% |
| 20 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 197 | 9% |
Most common cities for computer programmer analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tallahassee | 1 | 1% | $67,166 |
Computer Programmer Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of computer programmer analyst experts
Hampton University
Nova Southeastern University
Mount St. Joseph University
Tuskegee University
University of West Florida
University of Guam
Indiana University Southeast
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Weber State University
SUNY Potsdam
Murray State University
Washington University in St. Louis
North Dakota State University
What general advice would you give to a Computer Programmer Analyst?
Dr. Yohannes Bekele: By entering the computer engineering profession now, individuals can take advantage of the high skilled-power demand in the field, diverse career paths broadly classified under hardware and software sub-areas, lucrative salaries as compared to other fields, continuous learning opportunities, and the potential for entrepreneurship in changing ideas into startup businesses easily. It is a field that offers long-term growth prospects and the chance to contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies.
What will help Computer Programmer Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Frank Mitropoulos Ph.D.: As we look toward the future of careers in Computer Applications, several skills stand out for their growing importance. These skills revolve around specific technologies that are expected to continue to grow and evolve. Technologies related to Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Data Science are quickly evolving and being applied across the technology sector. Cloud Computing: Given the widespread adoption of Cloud services, Cloud computing expertise is indispensable. Understanding how to leverage platforms like Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud is crucial to developing scalable, efficient solutions that meet business needs. Artificial Intelligence: AI and Machine Learning are transforming the world. Skills in these areas to solve real-world problems will be even more critical in the future. Cybersecurity: Digital threats are becoming more sophisticated. Safeguarding data, networks, and systems will require encryption, intrusion detection, development, and regulation skills. Data Science: Skills in Data Science will be increasingly sought after as businesses embrace data-driven decision-making. Extracting meaningful insights from extensive datasets and effectively communicating these findings will be essential. Soft skills: Finally, soft skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication cannot be overlooked. Adapting, communicating, and leading will be essential for success.
Rebecca Allen
Mount St. Joseph University
Special Education And Teaching
What general advice would you give to a Computer Programmer Analyst?
Rebecca Allen: AI, for sure. I have heard it said that AI might not replace humans, rather humans who know how to use AI well may replace humans who don't.
Dalya Fadlalla
Adjunct FacultyTuskegee University
Computer/Information Technology Administration And Management
What general advice would you give to a Computer Programmer Analyst?
Dalya Fadlalla: People who work as A_AN JOB_TITLE may enjoy their work because they know what is expected from them, as it is clear on JOB_TITLE. It also, helps them be unstressed due to the clear responsibility. They can have a great opportunity to learn new skills, which has a significant impact on their organization.
Some people may find the work is more stressful, challenging, and need long hours
As a Computer Information Systems graduate entering the job market, they can explore what people like and dislike about being a Computer Information Systems professional.
Many people like working in this field, as Technology advances very fast there is always something new to learn and discover. Others may think it is hard to keep up with new technologies.
Many people appreciate that their work has a significant impact on the world. For example, if they are developing new software.
Therefore, this will depend on the person, and how he sees working in this field. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the field, you can make you can decide if this is the right path for you.
Dr. Thomas Gilbar Ph.D.
Chair and LecturerUniversity of West Florida
Electrical and Computer Engineering
What hard/technical skills are most important for Computer Programmer Analysts?
Dr. Thomas Gilbar Ph.D.: There are quite a few hard/technical skills that are important for Computer Engineers. We've found a lot of managers are looking for comfort in a variety of programming languages, including C++, C#, Java, Python, etc. Also, try to have a background in a variety of operating systems (certainly windows and mac, but also having experience on Apple iOS, Android, and even Linux will give you a leg up on the competition). Having at least some experience in data/cyber security is also important these days. On the hardware side, programming and applying microcontrollers and VHDL/Verilog programming are extremely important. VLSI design is also a nice addition to skill sets, though in most cases, not a deal-breaker. Circuit and electronic design are also very important skills to supplement your microcontroller skills.
James Sellmann Ph.D.
Dean, Professor of Philosophy and Micronesian StudiesUniversity of Guam
College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Computer Programmer Analyst?
James Sellmann Ph.D.: General advice is to keep in mind that you must leverage your skills, especially your soft skills of being able to work with people, to communicate effectively and to be able to solve problems. Be real. Don't try to pretend to be someone else to impress others. Be your authentic self. And show up on time.
What Computer Programmer Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
James Sellmann Ph.D.: General advice is to keep in mind that you must leverage your skills, especially your soft skills of being able to work with people, to communicate effectively and to be able to solve problems. Be real. Don't try to pretend to be someone else to impress others. Be your authentic self. And show up on time.
What will help Computer Programmer Analysts increase their earning potential?
James Sellmann Ph.D.: Computer skills, especially being able to work effectively with artificial intelligence will be most important. Being able to work with actual intelligence, that is living people, will always be an important skill.
Chris Sexton
Visiting Lecturer of Computer ScienceIndiana University Southeast
Computer Science Department
What skills stand out on Computer Programmer Analyst resumes?
Chris Sexton: The biggest thing that stands out to me in a candidate is how much effort in self-improvement is apparent on the resume. A candidate that lists a few jobs and bullet points of skills is acceptable but not impressive. But on the other hand, a candidate that lists a portfolio of projects to show those skills are real and how those skills made them a game-changing employee at their previous jobs is a clear winner.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Computer Programmer Analysts?
Chris Sexton: As with soft skills, technical skills in teamwork matter, a candidate must have the ability to work with revision control, be it git or some similar system. In addition, it is vital that fundamental computing skills such as operating the shell of a Linux machine are good signs that a candidate will be able to adapt to new systems.
What skills will help Computer Programmer Analysts earn the most?
Chris Sexton: My expectation for high earners is generally that they have relevant experience in real projects using the platforms used in the industry, but also that they know why and how those tools work. A candidate who has finished a computer science degree is going to be a candidate that has taken a class on algorithmic analysis, programming languages, software engineering, and of course, many other courses that reveal why we make the choices that we make with technology. Mistakes and shortsightedness are often the result without that key viewpoint of the "why." Leadership comes from confidence and understanding of fundamentals.
What soft skills should all Computer Programmer Analysts possess?
Chris Sexton: Teamwork is the obvious soft skill that is vital. It encompasses more than just being willing to work together but also includes strong documentation skills, textual communication skills, and precision in language. For an example of precision, which of the following is a task that can be completed:
"The login system will require strong passwords."
or
"The login system will require passwords of no less than 16 characters including at least two numbers and two non-alpha numeric characters."
It is easy for an engineer to be lax and use informal language that subtly confuses development efforts, but the valuable candidate will have strong technical communication skills.
Michael McLaughlin
FacultyBrigham Young University - Idaho
Department of Computer Information Technology
What skills stand out on Computer Programmer Analyst resumes?
Michael McLaughlin: The ability to solve unstructured problems.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Computer Programmer Analysts?
Michael McLaughlin: Solid understanding of the technology stack (from desktops to cloud), including at least one programming language at certification level and object-oriented design skills that include exclusivity, patterns, and data design both in relational and document databases.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Computer Programmer Analysts?
Dr. Kyle Feuz Ph.D.: Any time you have a certification, license or degree it's going to give you a leg up compared to your peers with similar skill sets but no certification. Often the certification or degree will help your resume make it through an initial screening process but then it's up to you to demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills the certification is supposed to represent. It's also important to know what career you want to pursue. Certifications are usually targeted to a very limited skill set. If that skill set is a critical part of the job description then the certification will be a strong mark in your favor. Some fields even require certification before you will be considered for the position. However, if the skill set is only tangentially related to the job description then there is little benefit in having the certification.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Computer Programmer Analysts?
Dr. Kyle Feuz Ph.D.: Change is often a slow process. For years, we have been hearing about the potential benefits of having employees work remotely and many companies had even started moving in that direction prior to the pandemic. However, the pandemic forced rapid change in the workplace environment with remote work becoming a necessity if businesses wanted to stay open. As I talk with different employers I am hearing a consistent message: remote work is here to stay.
This should not be interpreted to mean that every company is suddenly committed to allowing their employees to work remotely on a full-time basis (although some are). Instead, many companies see this as an opportunity to allow increased flexibility with work schedules and remote work. I do not anticipate that these changes will be immediate. Remember, change is often a slow process. I cannot predict the ripple effect such changes will cause in the job market.
With that in mind, we can start to consider the broader effects such policies will have. This has the potential to open the job market up to a wider audience. Previously, a graduate would have to decide if they were willing to relocate before looking at an opening outside of their immediate geographic area. With full-time remote work, those geographic constraints no longer apply. Similarly, individuals with other commitments that may prevent them from working a traditional 9-5 job may find opportunities that would previously have been unavailable to them. This just barely scratches the surface of the enduring impacts the pandemic may cause but one thing is certain, the world will never be the same.
What soft skills should all Computer Programmer Analysts possess?
Dr. Kyle Feuz Ph.D.: The top three things I hear from employers when talking about soft-skills are communication, collaboration, and ethics. They need employees who know how to communicate professionally in both written communications and oral communications. They also need employees who can work with others. You may be working internally with colleagues or externally with customers, clients and business partners but there are very few positions where collaborating with others is not a large part of the job. Finally, employers are looking for trustworthy employees. Many technical positions involve working with sensitive data, and no amount of technical controls can compensate for unethical or untrustworthy employees. All three of these soft skills are only going to increase in importance with the rise in remote work. Remote work cannot function successfully without good communication, collaboration and ethical behavior.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Computer Programmer Analysts?
Christopher Lanz: No certificate program or selection makes an applicant competitive with an actual computer scientist. Employers are fully aware that such a person is in the strongest position to learn anything. This is absolutely not true of certificate-earners.
Dr. Matthew Tennyson Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Computer ScienceMurray State University
Computer Science and Information Systems
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Computer Programmer Analysts?
Dr. Matthew Tennyson Ph.D.: A bachelor's degree in computer science is extremely valuable. It has been and continues to be one of the most valuable college degrees a student can pursue. I really think all areas of computing are in demand, but web and mobile computing might be one of the strongest. Some employers do like to see extra certifications in addition to the bachelor's degree. There are literally hundreds of certifications available in the computing industry. They all vary in the required amount of time, effort, and money. I think anything that can set a candidate apart from other candidates is valuable, and that includes any certification. I would not recommend investing thousands of dollars into additional certifications after completing a bachelor's degree, but I don't think it's a bad idea for students to pursue one of the free or lower-cost certifications that are available - especially those students who might not have strong internship experience, extracurricular activities, projects, etc. to put on their resumes. I think anything DevOps related or cloud-based like Amazon's AWS or Microsoft's Azure are especially valuable right now.
What general advice would you give to a Computer Programmer Analyst?
Dr. Tao Ju: They are not in this alone. The opportunities are out there, but it is up to them to be proactive and take ownership of their career. They should become familiar with and use all of the resources available to them-alumni, faculty and career advisors, job search sites, mentoring programs, career fairs, professional associations, and networking events. Take advantage of their existing network and seek out ways to make further connections. Keep an eye on trends, follow news, and research companies. Dream big but be flexible. In this time of constant transition and change, graduates who can shift their plans to the conditions of the job market will have less stress and more success. Talk with companies they've never heard of and explore careers they've never considered. They might be surprised at what they find and where it leads them. Lastly, remain confident and positive. They've worked hard to get to this point and they can be rest assured that their choice to pursue engineering will pay off in the short and long run.
What type of skills will young Computer Programmer Analysts need?
Dr. Simone Ludwig: The different roles our students take on once they complete our program are developer, programmer, software engineer, and development analyst positions. All of these positions involve some type of software development, be it on the front end, e.g. application development, or on the back end programming server or database applications. Besides the technical skills, the ability to communicate well and to work individually but also collaborate in a team environment are important.