Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Job outlook for intelligence analysts in the United States
Intelligence analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected intelligence analyst job growth rate is 3% from 2018-2028.
About 20,600 new jobs for intelligence analysts are projected over the next decade.
Intelligence analyst salaries have increased 11% for intelligence analysts in the last 5 years.
There are over 30,118 intelligence analysts currently employed in the United States.
There are 21,390 active intelligence analyst job openings in the US.
The average intelligence analyst salary is $77,752.
Are intelligence analyst jobs in demand?
Intelligence analyst job and salary trends over time
Intelligence analyst jobs over time
Intelligence analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 30,118 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 29,585 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 29,484 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 28,879 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 29,409 | 0.01% |
Average intelligence analyst salary over time
Intelligence analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $77,752 | $37.38 | +4.5% |
| 2024 | $74,381 | $35.76 | +1.5% |
| 2023 | $73,263 | $35.22 | +2.4% |
| 2022 | $71,519 | $34.38 | +2.4% |
| 2021 | $69,864 | $33.59 | +1.2% |
Intelligence analyst jobs by state
Most common states for intelligence analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 298 | 43% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,289 | 15% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 702 | 12% |
| 4 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 153 | 11% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 83 | 9% |
| 6 | Alaska | 739,795 | 68 | 9% |
| 7 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 65 | 9% |
| 8 | Vermont | 623,657 | 59 | 9% |
| 9 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 80 | 8% |
| 10 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 47 | 8% |
| 11 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 128 | 7% |
| 12 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 58 | 7% |
| 13 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 593 | 6% |
| 14 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 403 | 6% |
| 15 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 353 | 6% |
| 16 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 111 | 6% |
| 17 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 74 | 6% |
| 18 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 68 | 6% |
| 19 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 350 | 5% |
| 20 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 202 | 5% |
Most common cities for intelligence analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bethesda | 11 | 18% | $90,105 |
| 2 | Annapolis | 5 | 13% | $90,470 |
| 3 | McLean | 4 | 8% | $78,539 |
| 4 | Reston | 4 | 7% | $78,461 |
| 5 | Columbia | 5 | 5% | $90,356 |
| 6 | Washington | 30 | 4% | $98,455 |
| 7 | Arlington | 6 | 3% | $78,575 |
| 8 | Alexandria | 3 | 2% | $78,544 |
| 9 | Huntsville | 3 | 2% | $66,232 |
| 10 | Miami | 6 | 1% | $51,480 |
| 11 | Atlanta | 4 | 1% | $58,500 |
| 12 | Tucson | 4 | 1% | $75,350 |
| 13 | Aurora | 3 | 1% | $73,949 |
| 14 | Urban Honolulu | 3 | 1% | $65,047 |
| 15 | Birmingham | 2 | 1% | $65,890 |
| 16 | San Antonio | 6 | 0% | $71,779 |
Intelligence Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of intelligence analyst experts
Coastal Carolina University
University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College
Indiana University South Bend
Pennsylvania State University - Altoona
Bowie State University
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Our Lady of the Lake University
Western Oregon University
Texas Christian University
Lincoln
University of Mississippi
University of Mississippi
Hope College
Mark Chandler
Director of Government Relations and Professor of PracticeCoastal Carolina University
Intelligence, Command Control And Information Operations
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Mark Chandler: Solid analytic and communication skills will never go out of style – it’s our bread and butter in intelligence. Regardless of where you work (Military, Policy, Diplomacy, Law Enforcement, etc…) analysis is analysis. Build a strong analytic foundation. Communication skills are critical. You have to know how to write clearly and concisely and you have to know how to brief an audience or supervisor. By the way, artificial intelligence (AI) is not something that can substitute for analysis or communication. As we move forward with technology, a solid understanding of how to use Open Source information will be critical. In the era of AI and disinformation, analysts must be able to detect mis-information, dis-information and find the true factual sources. Develop solid OSINT research skills. Another area is “cyber”. This area will be with us forever, and we have to understand the challenges the Cyber world presents and how threats/issues can range from simple mis-information to catastrophic cyber attacks. While the cyber world is complex, a solid analytic foundation will help separate the wheat from the chaff.
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Ben Feldmeyer: Many of our students have enjoyed this work because they are able to apply what they learned in the classroom and our program to real world problems. They feel like they are making a difference with local agencies and are helping to reduce crime and victimization issues. These are often jobs where the classroom meets the real world, and our students have a unique skillset to help solve pressing criminal justice problems.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ben Feldmeyer: There is a growing need for this work and many agencies are looking for people with these skills to help them develop effective strategies for tackling crime and victimization problems. Many of our graduate students are getting offers for these positions based on their skillsets before they even finish their degrees. The compensation in many of these positions is quite competitive, especially for students just entering the job market.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Ben Feldmeyer: There are a variety of jobs that can be considered “Criminal Justice Analysts.” But many of them tend to be data and information-based positions within criminal justice agencies (e.g., analyzing police incident data or corrections records on release, risk, and recidivism). Our graduates have often taken these positions with law enforcement of corrections agencies. In these jobs, they often analyze the agencies data to look for patterns and trends in crime/victimization or recidivism, identify at risk places (“hotspots”) or people, and help develop strategies to address these patterns they see in the data. It is often a job where they are applying the tools they learn from Criminal Justice methods and research to help local agencies be more efficient and effective in tackling crime and justice problems.
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Eileen Kirk: Criminal Justice Analyst is a great position, particularly if you like analyzing data and identifying trends and patterns. As well, it is an excellent option if you are interested in working in law enforcement but want a position as a civilian. The work of a Criminal Justice Analyst can make significant contributions to prevent and reduce crime by identifying where and when crime is likely to occur.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Eileen Kirk: A Criminal Justice Analyst works with law enforcement agencies, such as local police departments or state police. An Analyst contributes to law enforcement by assessing trends and identifying patterns in crime, examining the time, days, and location of crime. Also, a Criminal Justice Analyst presents and conveys that data in a way that is easily comprehended by others, whether through charts or tables, or mapping software. The information and data gathered by a Criminal Justice Analyst may be summarized in a report or bulletin that helps inform law enforcement on how to deploy resources more efficiently and effectively, or they may be used in a grant proposal, seeking additional funding for law enforcement activities.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Eileen Kirk: Probably the best part of this position is contributing to the effectiveness of law enforcement. A law enforcement agency wants to work well, and looking at data can help ensure the agency is using its resources in the best possible way and addressing crime more accurately. One challenge to the work of a Criminal Justice Analyst is implementation. For example, if a Criminal Justice Analysis identifies a crime prevention concern, the agency must have the required human and financial resources to address it.
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Chloe Robinson Ph.D.: Maximizing your salary potential can only happen if you do your research before entering the job market. You should research salary trends and talk to others who may be already working in the field about the average salaries. However, it is important to be cognizant of geographical fluctuations when it comes to salaries. Regional nuances matter. Therefore, doing your research about where you plan to live and work as you enter the field matters as well. Also, before starting your career, it is so important to consider acquiring relevant skills through an internship. An internship will not only give you a “peek” into your future career, but it will also help you gain valuable experience. This will ultimately make you a competitive candidate on the job market.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Chloe Robinson Ph.D.: I would encourage any new graduate to find a mentor. A good professional mentor can help you navigate the early stages of your career. Beginning your career can feel quite intimidating and scary. However, a good mentor will be able to ease your fears, offer guidance and lend support. Your mentor could also be the key to unlocking other professional networks. There is a plethora of research that shows that professional networks not only help one understand their career on a deeper level but can also lead to more career opportunities.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Chloe Robinson Ph.D.: People need to be amenable to change. Technological advancements in conjunction with criminal justice reform efforts are changing the overall landscape of the field. This changing environment requires flexibility and adaptability. It is also crucial that criminal justice professionals enhance their cultural competency skills. Practitioners who understand the power of diversity will be able to authentically support different cultural groups. A culturally aware individual will also be able to appropriately address the disparities that we see in the system. As more and more data become available through transparency efforts, criminal justice professionals will need to have strong data analysis skills. This will allow them to be able to extrapolate trends from the data. This information can be useful in order to improve policies and procedures in the field.
Kim Ménard Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality StudiesPennsylvania State University - Altoona
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Kim Ménard Ph.D.: I believe that people skills, computer skills, and forensic accounting skills will become increasingly important in the field in the next 3 to 5 years. Currently, many criminal justice agencies are working to improve recruitment and retention of their employees and to reinstate trust among the public, both of which require people skills. The ubiquitous use of computers for both legal and nefarious activity will necessitate greater computational and forensic accounting knowledge.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kim Ménard Ph.D.: Getting as much education and/or specialized training as possible prior to applying for a job. Applying to multiple places in the hopes of having more than one offer to choose from, which may also give you greater negotiating power. Be willing to relocate but be sure to do your homework so you have a good idea of the cost of living prior to accepting any offer. Depending upon the nature of the job, you can try asking for more money (say 10%) when presented with the initial offer, because for some jobs this will be the time you have the most negotiating power. Be willing to start in a 'lower' position and work your way 'up.' Some jobs require experience for promotions.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Kim Ménard Ph.D.: Your career preparation starts in college. Students in criminal justice professions undergo background checks, so their behavior in and out of the classroom is important. Also, many schools, like Penn State Altoona, have required internships that often lead to jobs after graduation. It is good to invest time in selecting the best classes and internships for your career objectives. Having a unique skill or specialization can really open doors. In that same vain, when starting a new career do not be afraid to show initiative by seeking out new opportunities for growth. And do seek advice or mentorship from someone with more experience. For instance, Penn State has one of the largest alumni associations in the country, which can provide a wealth of information and support.
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Charles Adams Ph.D.: I tell the students that while attending school, they should try to gain as much practical experience as possible via internships, volunteer services, or part-time employment. They should maintain good credit standing, avoid using illegal substances, and always present an ethical standard of professionalism. Always commit themselves to excellence and 'be the type of individual that employers are seeking in an applicant- go the extra mile :be 'extra'ordinary'
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Charles Adams Ph.D.: Professionals should strive to build their resumes with professional certificates and training or seek advanced degrees. Get training in a specialized area to separate yourself from other applicants, seek leadership roles, and be willing to relocate to a different location.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Charles Adams Ph.D.: The number one skill that students should possess is critical thinking. The ability to think critically is essential for addressing the many challenges in the fluid and ever-changing field of criminal justice. We need individuals who can meet the challenges of this expanding field. Students should be well-versed in technology, such as computer applications, spreadsheet development, and statistical analysis. Another skill is cultural competency. We live in a diverse society, and it is important to be culturally competent to effectively discharge our duties and responsibilities. We must respect and understand different cultures, and culturally competent professionals are attractive to employers—finally, acquiring crisis management skills. We live in an ever-changing society where issues can arise quickly, so professionals must have the skills to respond to crises.
Dr. Jeffrey Roth
Associate ProfessorSlippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Dr. Jeffrey Roth: Communication skills, both interpersonal and written, have long been important abilities for people working in criminal justice jobs and I think that will remain the case into the future.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Jeffrey Roth: I think my advice about geographic flexibility applies here as well. Some state and local agencies have more funding than others and so can afford to pay higher salaries. If you're looking to maximize salary potential when you're just starting out, you might need to move to the places that are paying the most.
Jiletta Kubena PhD
Professor of Criminology & Criminal JusticeOur Lady of the Lake University
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Jiletta Kubena PhD: By building your resume before leaving college. Most criminal justice jobs are government jobs that have set salaries so negotiations are not as prevalent as in other industries. Even if your first job is not your dream job, make sure it is a place where you are acquiring skills that you can apply to a high level dream job.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jiletta Kubena PhD: Always important, but it is the ability to work well with all types of people and personalities.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Jiletta Kubena PhD: Before graduating, make connections in the field where you want to work. Do an internship, participate in service-learning classes, or other experiential learning experiences offered through student clubs and organizations that are specific to your major or field.
Misty Weitzel Ph.D.
Professor and Division Chair of Criminal Justice SciencesWestern Oregon University
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Misty Weitzel Ph.D.: Maximizing your salary potential depends on what you plan to do in the field. An undergraduate degree can set you apart from others, especially if you augmented your degree with a minor (for example in psychology communications, juvenile justice, etc.). Speaking a second language can be very useful and sometimes means a bump in salary. A Master's degree may also be required for promotion in some agencies and organizations. Adding a couple extra years could mean the difference of a few thousand dollars a year.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Misty Weitzel Ph.D.: The so-called "soft skills" are becoming increasingly important. I often hear from various agencies that we need more people who can communicate effectively, are able to problem solve and make confident decisions, accept feedback without taking it personally, and have integrity in all that they do.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Misty Weitzel Ph.D.: A career in criminal justice starts with a bachelor's degree in a reputable program that provides personalized support and internship opportunities. You need to know the criminal justice system in order to work within it. Many people confuse a degree in criminal justice with job training. They don't realize that a criminal justice degree is a social science degree, thus providing mastery of the complete picture of crime as a social problem and understanding the skills necessary for a variety of occupations that address crime at all levels of society. An undergraduate student may begin their program with the sole purpose of becoming an FBI agent, for example, but learn rather quickly that there are many jobs in criminal justice that may suit them as well or better. An internship allows students to explore these areas first hand - whether in corrections, courts, law enforcement, forensics, cyber crime, and many more.
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Ronald Burns: Individuals starting their career in criminal justice can maximize their salary
potential through expanding their skill set, maximizing their potential,
anticipating changes, and being patient. Those entering the field are
encouraged to continuously develop and refine skills. This may include
learning new software programs or a second language, seeking training
opportunities, taking on new tasks, and related endeavors that contribute to
professional development. The research skills learned in the classroom
should be applied to identifying promising areas and employment
opportunities within criminal justice that help them maximize one’s salary
potential. Many criminal justice positions are in the public sector which
enables job seekers to identify salaries for various positions. Researching
salaries and positions greatly assists with job preparation and searches.
Salary is certainly important to many people, however identifying an
enjoyable, rewarding position with the potential for both professional and
personal growth should rank high among one’s priorities. Patience is
important as those entering the workforce must be aware that they are often
restricted to entry-level positions until they gain experience and promote.
Gaining experience, for instance through internships and part-time positions,
also assists with maximizing salary potential. Starting salaries for many
criminal justice positions have increased in recent years.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ronald Burns: Short- and long-term planning is essential for an effective job search. It makes
little sense to invest in a career that will soon be outdated. Identifying and
pursuing areas of anticipated growth is the preferred path. We are in the
beginning stages of the incorporation of technology in criminal justice, thus the
ability to effectively identify, implement, use technological advancements will
help new employees distinguish themselves. For instance, society is adapting
to the use of artificial intelligence, leading to many opportunities for those well-
versed in the area, including those in criminal justice. Effective communication
skills are necessary throughout the criminal justice system. Law enforcement,
courts, and corrections personnel must be able to communicate both verbally
and nonverbally with various groups in many types of settings. Learning a
second or third language undoubtedly makes one more valuable to many
criminal justice organizations. The criminal justice field will need leaders who
can think in nontraditional ways to incorporate and synthesize field-specific
and more general advancements in society. Forward thinking individuals with
fresh ideas and motivation will find success in any career in criminal justice.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Ronald Burns: Students entering the criminal justice workforce should ensure they are well-
rounded, flexible, familiar with technology, motivated, and able to interact with
diverse groups of people. They should also be familiar with the impacts of
globalism and current events. Students should seek expertise in their field and
make themselves invaluable to their employer. Offering to take on new
projects, learning new skills, and demonstrating commitment largely contribute
to career and professional development. Criminal justice is changing at a
rapid pace, particularly regarding technology, interpersonal relationships, and
international crime. Technology, for instance, has changed how we fight crime
and led to more advanced forms of crime that warrant some non-traditional
skills in the field. Students beginning their career in criminal justice ought to
consider their qualifications, interests, and potential. Deeply studying careers,
agencies, fields, and societal developments should be a priority for those
interested in working in the many areas of criminal justice. Speaking with
individuals in positions that interest those entering the field is highly
recommended. Networking should be a key component of any job search.
Internships are also highly recommended, as they provide experience, enable
interns to learn new skills, and demonstrate one’s ability to responsibly
maintain employment. Taking shortcuts in professional development and
conducting half-hearted job searches only impacts the individual entering the
field. Investing in oneself is recommended.
Kimberly Retzlaff M.S.
Professor/ Internship CoordinatorLincoln
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Kimberly Retzlaff M.S.: Several skills will become increasingly important in the next 3-5 years. The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice addresses many of the topics including Data analysis, Cyber Security, Crisis Intervention & De-escalation, Cultural Competency and Diversity Training, Trauma Informed Practices, Technology Innovation and Integration, Legal and Policy Analysis, Community Engagement and Collaboration, Ethical Decision Making, Adaptability and Resilience.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Kimberly Retzlaff M.S.: Maximizing your salary potential when starting your career in the criminal justice field requires strategic planning and proactive steps. The criminal justice field is a constantly evolving, often influenced by changes in law, technology, and society. It is important to stay informed about current trends, research findings, and emerging issues through ongoing education and professional development opportunities.
Knowledge is power! As a leader in research the SCCJ is constantly adapting to the needs of our communities and students offering curriculum that is current and up to date to address these areas of need. The SCCJ offers a variety of relevant courses to allow students to adequately prepare themselves with the educational and experiential learning opportunities. Be sure you prepare yourself to the fullest potential by pursuing higher education and specialization.
Currently there is a shortage of applicants in several areas of the criminal justice system. Law Enforcement, Probation and Victim Services are all areas currently in high demand and because of the demand salaries tend to be competitive. Opportunities are great for students graduating with a degree in criminology and criminal justice. The demand is high! The time is now!
Wesley Jennings
Gillespie Distinguished Scholar, Chair, & ProfessorUniversity of Mississippi
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Wesley Jennings: Some of the best advice I can provide for recent graduates who are beginning their career in the criminal justice field is to focus on active networking and professional development. This can be pursued through attendance at professional conferences/events, workshops, social media engagement, internships, etc. This will ensure that you are always up-to-date on what is going on in your career field, and permit you the ability to take advantage of opportunities for growth, promotion, and career advancement.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Wesley Jennings: Technology proficiency is becoming one of the more sought after skills of those entering the workforce in criminal justice settings as technological advancements are constantly changing how criminals perpetrate their crimes as well as how law enforcement performs their duties and promotes crime prevention. Similarly, an important skill in the criminal justice profession has been and will continue to be critical thinking and analytical skills. This will become more important as the nature of crime, criminal networks, cybercrime, terrorism, etc. is becoming increasing more complex to prevent or investigate.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Wesley Jennings: When starting your career in the criminal justice field, the most effective strategies for maximizing your salary potential is to prioritize education (graduate degree) and certifications. Those individuals with advanced academic degrees and/or certifications stand out amongst their peers and provide leverage for negotiating salaries. Seeking entry-level leadership roles and continued professional development opportunities can also help boost your salary in terms of negotiations, pay raises, etc.)
Wesley Jennings
Gillespie Distinguished Scholar, Chair, & ProfessorUniversity of Mississippi
Criminal Justice And Corrections
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Wesley Jennings: Some of the best advice I can provide for recent graduates who are beginning their career in the criminal justice field is to focus on active networking and professional development. This can be pursued through attendance at professional conferences/events, workshops, social media engagement, internships, etc. This will ensure that you are always up-to-date on what is going on in your career field, and permit you the ability to take advantage of opportunities for growth, promotion, and career advancement.
What Intelligence Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Wesley Jennings: Technology proficiency is becoming one of the more sought after skills of those entering the workforce in criminal justice settings as technological advancements are constantly changing how criminals perpetrate their crimes as well as how law enforcement performs their duties and promotes crime prevention. Similarly, an important skill in the criminal justice profession has been and will continue to be critical thinking and analytical skills. This will become more important as the nature of crime, criminal networks, cybercrime, terrorism, etc. is becoming increasing more complex to prevent or investigate.
What will help Intelligence Analysts increase their earning potential?
Wesley Jennings: When starting your career in the criminal justice field, the most effective strategies for maximizing your salary potential is to prioritize education (graduate degree) and certifications. Those individuals with advanced academic degrees and/or certifications stand out amongst their peers and provide leverage for negotiating salaries. Seeking entry-level leadership roles and continued professional development opportunities can also help boost your salary in terms of negotiations, pay raises, etc.)
What general advice would you give to an Intelligence Analyst?
Dr. Todd Steen: Given the situation with the COVID-19 virus, I believe having an economics degree will be more valuable than ever. Graduates will be prepared for a variety of conditions and have excellent problem-solving skills. The pandemic will lead to many new situations, that firms will have to face, that have economic implications. I believe that economics degrees will be in high demand.
My advice to graduates in economics would be to gain experience with various tools for data analysis. I would also advise graduates to start reading as much as possible in newspapers, such as The Wall Street Journal and other economics and business periodicals. At the same time, keep up with the news of the day at places like Real Clear Politics. Things will be changing fast, and it will be essential to keep on top of these changes.