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Job outlook for data specialists in the United States
Data specialist job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected data specialist job growth rate is 9% from 2018-2028.
About 10,500 new jobs for data specialists are projected over the next decade.
Data specialist salaries have increased 14% for data specialists in the last 5 years.
There are over 7,290 data specialists currently employed in the United States.
There are 100,301 active data specialist job openings in the US.
The average data specialist salary is $68,326.
Are data specialist jobs in demand?
Data specialist job and salary trends over time
Data specialist jobs over time
Data specialist job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 7,290 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 7,505 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 7,922 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 9,680 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 9,977 | 0.00% |
Average data specialist salary over time
Data specialist salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $68,326 | $32.85 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $66,441 | $31.94 | +4.1% |
| 2023 | $63,822 | $30.68 | +4.0% |
| 2022 | $61,362 | $29.50 | +2.8% |
| 2021 | $59,716 | $28.71 | +2.2% |
Data specialist jobs by state
Most common states for data specialists
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 274 | 39% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,732 | 25% |
| 3 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 159 | 21% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 155 | 21% |
| 5 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 267 | 20% |
| 6 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,145 | 19% |
| 7 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 169 | 19% |
| 8 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 562 | 18% |
| 9 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 543 | 18% |
| 10 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 343 | 18% |
| 11 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 190 | 18% |
| 12 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 963 | 17% |
| 13 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 608 | 17% |
| 14 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,612 | 16% |
| 15 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 896 | 16% |
| 16 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,925 | 15% |
| 17 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,338 | 15% |
| 18 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 251 | 15% |
| 19 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,783 | 14% |
| 20 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,478 | 14% |
Most common cities for data specialists
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Juneau | 5 | 15% | $78,922 |
| 2 | Hartford | 6 | 5% | $89,811 |
| 3 | Lansing | 6 | 5% | $78,355 |
| 4 | Atlanta | 19 | 4% | $74,114 |
| 5 | Boston | 23 | 3% | $85,757 |
| 6 | Washington | 14 | 2% | $72,416 |
| 7 | Sacramento | 10 | 2% | $86,372 |
| 8 | Saint Paul | 6 | 2% | $63,058 |
| 9 | Phoenix | 11 | 1% | $65,472 |
| 10 | Denver | 9 | 1% | $60,260 |
| 11 | Indianapolis | 6 | 1% | $56,326 |
| 12 | Baltimore | 5 | 1% | $76,271 |
| 13 | Miami | 5 | 1% | $65,578 |
| 14 | San Francisco | 5 | 1% | $87,041 |
| 15 | Chicago | 13 | 0% | $76,977 |
| 16 | Los Angeles | 10 | 0% | $78,209 |
| 17 | Houston | 8 | 0% | $78,349 |
| 18 | New York | 8 | 0% | $83,991 |
| 19 | San Diego | 5 | 0% | $75,693 |
Data Specialist job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of data specialist experts
Mississippi College
University of Illinois at Chicago
University of Maryland - College Park
Kettering University
Montclair State University
Minnesota State University - Mankato
University of Missouri - St Louis
University of Rhode Island
University of California, Irvine
Morgan State University
Nazareth College of Rochester
Lafayette College
University of Oregon
Florida International University
Saint Peter's University
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Yipeng Yang: Logic and critical thinking, mathematical modeling, computer programming, data analytics, and communication.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Yipeng Yang: Get to know clearly the job duties quickly. Make good connections with colleagues and listen to their advices.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Joseph Spivey: I’d start by becoming as knowledgeable as possible about the salaries of people in jobs you are interested in. Compare salaries for open positions; you may be able to use your knowledge as leverage to ask for more money. When you interview, ask not just about starting salary but about how raises and promotions are handled. I wish that I had learned some basic negotiation principles when I started my career. I’d recommend the book Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Michael Zhang: In the coming years, turning data into insights and driving business innovation and success is the new compass.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Michael Zhang: All your study at University is a solid foundation of the bridge between theory and practice. Don’t be afraid of failure, be open-minded, keep learning and adapting to new challenges.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Taylor Poe Ph.D.: Sell the strengths that set you apart and be willing to continue learning new skills and areas.
Spyros Kitsiou Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorUniversity of Illinois at Chicago
Medical Illustration And Informatics
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Spyros Kitsiou Ph.D.: In terms of hard skills: Data analytics, Machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques, Mobile health informatics. In terms of soft skills: Problem-solving, Motivation and drive driven by curiosity, Communication skills.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Spyros Kitsiou Ph.D.: By targeting positions that align with your background and expertise and by adjusting aspects of your CV and cover letter to highlight your skills and competencies in relation to the position you are applying for. Also, by negotiating your salary and providing justification as to why you deserve more than the initial offer. Do your research and talk to people to gain a better understanding of what is the salary range of the position you are applying.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Sean Cao: Data analytics skills, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and communication skills will become more important and prevalent in the next few years. Acquiring these skills positions students to gain a competitive edge in the era of AI.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Sean Cao: First, enhancing proficiency in data analytics is important for accounting students aiming to excel in today's data-rich financial environment. It is imperative that students can effectively use advanced data analytics tools to analyze both quantitative and qualitative data, such as 10-K, 8-K, and ESG disclosures. By leveraging analytical tools to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies within financial data, students can transform complex information into actionable insights. This ability not only facilitates informed decision-making but also distinguishes individuals as indispensable assets within any organization. Second, cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The ability to think critically and solve problems creatively is particularly important in the age of AI. As AI technologies increasingly automate routine tasks, the unique human ability to think critically, evaluate complex situations, and generate innovative solutions becomes more valuable than ever. In addition, strengthening effective communication skills. In an era where technology frequently facilitates interactions, the capacity to articulate ideas clearly and convincingly, both verbally and in writing, is important. Enhancing communication skills contributes to better collaboration with colleagues and management, ensuring that your ideas and contributions are duly recognized and appreciated.
Dr. Osama Aljarrah
Assistant ProfessorKettering University
Manufacturing Engineering
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Osama Aljarrah: As someone who deeply cares about my students' success beyond graduation, I strongly recommend seeking a mentor. Choose someone you respect and whose career path inspires you—whether it's a teacher, manager, or even a family member. A good mentor can offer invaluable guidance and support as you navigate the early stages of your career.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Louis Rocconi Ph.D.: With the advent of AI and the growing use of other technologies in education, the ability to utilize these new tools effectively and ethically will be critical. Questions such as “How can AI tools be used in a practical and ethical way to enhance the work evaluators do?” will become more crucial in the next few years. I also think data analysis skills and the ability to interpret results for a wide variety of audiences will continue to be paramount for future success in the field.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Sunhyung Lee: Develop strong communication and analytical skills, as the ability to convey complex economic concepts clearly and interpret data accurately is crucial in the field. Even starting with the small things, you will be surprised to see how many students cannot write proper emails.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Sunhyung Lee: Data analysis and quantitative methods will continue to be paramount, with increasing emphasis on proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL for handling large datasets and conducting advanced statistical analyses.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Sunhyung Lee: Pursue advanced education or specialized certifications to enhance your qualifications and increase your market value to employers.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Kyle Nash Ph.D.: Starting your career can be both exciting and challenging. My general advice to graduates is to embrace continuous learning and stay adaptable. The business landscape is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to keep updating your skills and knowledge. Additionally, networking is essential. Build and maintain professional relationships, as these connections can lead to mentorship opportunities and job openings. Lastly, don't be afraid to take on new challenges and responsibilities early in your career; this will demonstrate your initiative and commitment to growth.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Kyle Nash Ph.D.: To maximize your salary potential, start by thoroughly researching the industry standards for your role and region to set realistic expectations. Highlight your unique skills and experiences during negotiations and be prepared to demonstrate your value to potential employers. Additionally, seeking certifications or advanced training in high-demand areas can give you a competitive edge. Networking and building professional relationships can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Lastly, consider positions that offer growth potential, even if the starting salary is not the highest, as these roles often provide more substantial salary increases over time.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Ambrose Kidd III: Critical thinking skills will always be a priority, and the advancement of AI tools will only make that more so. Beyond that, I think the most in demand skills are ability to interdisciplinary work, particularly bioinformatics.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ambrose Kidd III: Having a broad skill set and being prepared to learn on the job. The highest salaries will be for those that get their foot in the door and then demonstrate critical thinking and leadership skills.
Ms. Jacqueline Kelley Esq.
Adjunct ProfessorUniversity of Rhode Island
Public Administration
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Ms. Jacqueline Kelley Esq.: Data analysis is becoming more and more important to create informed decision making.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ms. Jacqueline Kelley Esq.: Be ready to take a chance and do not assume that your first job is your forever job.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Jessie Borelli Ph.D.: Students trained in psychological science have many skills but tend to undervalue or underestimate their own worth. Our students are qualified to work in human services, business and marketing, research and development, the non-profit sector, and data science. To find the job that’s right for you, it’s important to identify what your long-term career goals are and to have a vision of how you want to achieve those goals. Some career fields may require advanced degrees but for other positions, a bachelor’s degree with applicable experience may be sufficient.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Jessie Borelli Ph.D.: The value of technical skills keeps increasing, and I can only imagine that these skills will continue to rise in value. One edge that psychological science students bring to the table is the ability to interpret data, as well as to understand the user experience that influences human behavior in digital spaces. For example, people with training in psychological science will be needed to consult on interpersonal interactions, promoting mental health in an increasing digital world and how to address issues of equity and inclusion in digital spaces.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Jessie Borelli Ph.D.: My experience as a professor leads me to believe that psychology students tend to underestimate their skills and talents. I encourage students to document their experiences and the skills they develop from the moment they begin their undergraduate education, as well as to remember that the skills they accumulate are likely valuable, transferrable skills. For instance, if they work in a research lab and know how to design a survey and analyze quantitative data, these are skills that can be used not only in the psychology research space but also in a marketing, data science, R&D;, or non-profit spaces. If they have worked in a community engagement internship, learning how to forge connections with community partners, work with diverse stakeholders, or conduct a focus group, they have amassed a set of skills that could transfer to many different settings that involve working with people with divergent viewpoints. For instance, their skills may translate to a mediation/law context, to a non-profit context, or they may be well suited to continue work in community organizing. If students begin thinking like employers, they may start to view their training as assets they have developed and can carry with them.
Dr. Jacqueline Holland EdD, CFCS
Associate ProfessorMorgan State University
Family And Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Jacqueline Holland EdD, CFCS: In the next 3-5 years, skills such as data analysis, digital literacy, and adaptability will become more important and prevalent in the field.
Dr. Heather Lewis
Nazareth College of Rochester
Mathematics
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Heather Lewis: While some students do look for jobs directly related to mathematics, most of our students have found that their mathematics background is appealing to employers even outside of mathematics. With a background in math, you can do anything: this is so general that it can feel unhelpful, but in our experience it's surprisingly accurate. Math provides you with a skillset that is valuable in almost any career, and employers know this. Lean into problem solving and reasoning, look for something you find interesting, and see how those skills apply to that job. Math graduates tend to be very adaptable.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Heather Lewis: Problem solving, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking skills will remain important in many areas. Data interpretation and data analysis are likely to continue to be important.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Amy Guisinger: Go into salary negotiations with knowledge. Research what other people are making with similar job titles and responsibilities. Many states require job postings to include starting salary and other forms of pay transparency. So even if you do not work in that state, you can benefit by knowing what others are making.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Amy Guisinger: I think that skills related to data analysis are going to be more important in the years to come. As collecting data is getting easier and less costly for firms, companies are looking for people who know how to use the data appropriately. Poor data collection methods and inaccurate models will lead to bad business decisions. These mistakes can be avoided by hiring employees with skills in data analytics and modeling.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Amy Guisinger: I think it's important at the beginning of your career to learn as much as you can. At this stage, you often have a rare opportunity to interact with many people and departments (even if it is through low-level tasks like dropping off reports). Take advantage of those opportunities by reflecting on what particular people or departments do. Ask yourself what tasks and projects you find the most interesting in your company and find out who is working on those things. Seek out interactions with these people to understand the skills that make them successful. Also, don't be afraid to ask people for a lunch or coffee meeting to discuss their job and seek advice.
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Darek Nalle: AI and data analytics skills will be crucial for efficiency gains and competitive advantage.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Darek Nalle: Attain credentials, focus on completing tasks efficiently, and communicate effectively to build relationships.
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Darek Nalle: Seek out a mentor. Join alumni associations and professional societies for networking. Volunteer in the local community.
Dr. Arun Upadhyay PhD
ProfessorFlorida International University
Finance And Financial Management Services
What will help Data Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Arun Upadhyay PhD: I believe the world is becoming more data-centric and business decisions are going to be made based on the data analyses. Analytics is going to be integral to both business and economics-related jobs, enabling data-driven decision-making, market analysis, performance measurement, risk management, customer insights, resource optimization, forecasting, planning, and performance evaluation.
What Data Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
John Clark Ph.D., CFA, CFP®: In the next 3-5 years, I think the finance industry will see a number of opportunities develop for tech savvy graduates. In many areas, incorporating data analytics and understanding how to handle big data will become an important skill. Banks and insurance companies will continue to develop tools for underwriting and credit analysis. Investment firms will begin to utilize the tools of big data to provide clients greater customization at lower costs. Corporations will desire these skills to provide better data for decision making and to help deliver better outcomes for their customers.
Dr. Joshua Feinberg
Associate Professor of PsychologySaint Peter's University
Social Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Data Specialist?
Dr. Joshua Feinberg: Being able to speak the 'language' of statistics and research methods will be even more critical in the next 3-5 years. Organizations are becoming much more data-driven. Speaking statistics is like speaking a foreign language. If you can be fluent in statistics and data management, it will go a long way in the job market.