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Job outlook for lead data analysts in the United States
Lead data analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected lead data analyst job growth rate is 9% from 2018-2028.
About 56,000 new jobs for lead data analysts are projected over the next decade.
Lead data analyst salaries have increased 8% for lead data analysts in the last 5 years.
There are over 72,304 lead data analysts currently employed in the United States.
There are 141,020 active lead data analyst job openings in the US.
The average lead data analyst salary is $96,584.
Are lead data analyst jobs in demand?
Lead data analyst job and salary trends over time
Lead data analyst jobs over time
Lead data analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 72,304 | 0.02% |
| 2020 | 75,072 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 73,275 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 72,181 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 70,327 | 0.02% |
Average lead data analyst salary over time
Lead data analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $96,584 | $46.43 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $93,402 | $44.90 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $91,287 | $43.89 | +0.5% |
| 2022 | $90,804 | $43.66 | +1.2% |
| 2021 | $89,724 | $43.14 | +1.7% |
Lead data analyst jobs by state
Most common states for lead data analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 657 | 95% |
| 2 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 408 | 39% |
| 3 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 506 | 38% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 279 | 38% |
| 5 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 211 | 36% |
| 6 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 1,077 | 35% |
| 7 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,013 | 29% |
| 8 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 305 | 29% |
| 9 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 510 | 27% |
| 10 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 464 | 27% |
| 11 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 3,279 | 26% |
| 12 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 229 | 26% |
| 13 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 2,019 | 24% |
| 14 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,454 | 24% |
| 15 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 695 | 24% |
| 16 | Vermont | 623,657 | 149 | 24% |
| 17 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 2,661 | 23% |
| 18 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 1,420 | 23% |
| 19 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,224 | 22% |
| 20 | Delaware | 961,939 | 214 | 22% |
Most common cities for lead data analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Frankfort | 5 | 18% | $75,975 |
| 2 | Juneau | 4 | 12% | $84,159 |
| 3 | Annapolis | 4 | 10% | $95,217 |
| 4 | Hartford | 5 | 4% | $100,253 |
| 5 | Lansing | 4 | 3% | $91,413 |
| 6 | Springfield | 4 | 3% | $81,756 |
| 7 | Tampa | 7 | 2% | $92,279 |
| 8 | Baton Rouge | 4 | 2% | $88,849 |
| 9 | Montgomery | 4 | 2% | $86,886 |
| 10 | Indianapolis | 6 | 1% | $83,517 |
| 11 | Washington | 6 | 1% | $83,095 |
| 12 | Atlanta | 5 | 1% | $92,043 |
| 13 | Boston | 5 | 1% | $99,019 |
| 14 | Colorado Springs | 3 | 1% | $79,067 |
| 15 | New York | 10 | 0% | $98,137 |
| 16 | Chicago | 4 | 0% | $84,548 |
| 17 | Denver | 3 | 0% | $78,641 |
Lead Data Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of lead data analyst experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Western Kentucky University
University of La Verne
Widener University
Mississippi College
Xavier University
Florida Gulf Coast University
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Prairie View A & M University
SUNY College at Geneseo
University of Illinois at Chicago
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Yipeng Yang: Logic and critical thinking, mathematical modeling, computer programming, data analytics, and communication.
What Lead Data Analyst 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 will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Yipeng Yang: Enhance problem-solving ability. Keep learning and improving new skills in your field.
What Lead Data 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 will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. Swagata Banerjee PhD: Network extensively: Build relationships with professionals in your field, attend industry events, and join relevant professional organizations. Continuously learn and adapt: Stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and best practices through courses, workshops, and online resources. Seek mentorship: Find experienced professionals who can offer guidance and advice as you navigate your career path. Be proactive and resourceful: Take initiative, seek out opportunities for growth, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
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 Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Joseph Spivey: I think technology, especially artificial intelligence, provide increasingly important tools. Mathematics graduates will need to understand how to use technology in all kinds of new ways to improve their output and efficiency. Math graduates will need to be able to identify the best technological tools for a given task and critically interpret the output. As with most technological tools, people will be best served by using technology to augment, rather than replace, their efforts.
What will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Joseph Spivey: My first piece of advice is to recognize that you have achieved something hard and worthwhile by completing a mathematics major. There are not many people on this planet who have the knowledge and skills that you have developed! By completing a math major, you have proven that you have excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and these abilities and confidence in your abilities will pay off. I also think it’s worthwhile to identify a mentor early on who can help guide you to be successful.
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Ning Ye Ph.D.: First of all, the ability to understand and interpret data will be key as businesses increasingly use data analytics for decision-making. One area where there will be huge demand is in data analytics, business intelligence, and data visualization. Secondly, I think the ability to adapt fast and bounce back after a failure is going to be more crucial than ever. This encompasses; embracing new ideas, learning from past mistakes, having a positive attitude when faced with adversities. Emotional intelligence (EQ) together with leadership abilities are also important for any employee. This involves knowing how to control your feelings, being able to share others' pain, and leading different teams in a globalized changing world.
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Dr. Michael Zhang: In the coming years, turning data into insights and driving business innovation and success is the new compass.
What Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Michael Zhang: Don’t worry about your job title. Regardless of what you do, prepare yourself with data and modeling skills and hands-on experience in applying knowledge for developing, evaluating, refining and implementing analytics solutions to your career.
What will help Lead Data Analysts 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 general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Jennifer Barr PhD: All of the skills noted in my response to Q1. However, as business professionals advance in their respective careers, they must have a keen understanding about the impact of technology on every aspect of an organization. It is also essential to stay abreast of emerging technologies and understand their implications for business practice.
Professional development should be an ongoing priority. Attend conferences and seminars, complete certificate programs, etc. Build your personal brand and value at every level.
Hone leadership skills for middle management positions including collaboration, thinking and acting systemically, resiliency and learning agility. Never forget the importance of humanity when interacting with subordinates. Lead by example always.
Recognizing the role of data capture, analytics and technology in advancing organizations, creating competitive advantage and delivering exceptional user experiences is paramount.
Hire well. Employees are considered the most valuable asset of every organization. Abilities, knowledge and experience matter but the soft skills in terms of how someone works and interacts with others should be top priorities.
What will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Jennifer Barr PhD: Embrace a lifelong learning mindset at the outset. Read case books about successful organizations, notable leaders and new business practices.
Establish an unwavering reputation as a disciplined and responsible worker.
Strive to be an excellent listener. Your attention to detail will be noticed as evidenced through your work.
Be creative and take risks. Suggest an idea to your supervisor about how to improve a procedure or system. This will position you as an early career problem solver.
Seize every opportunity to grow and build key skills including communication, interpersonal, critical thinking and technology.
Recognize the strong correlation between emotional intelligence and success. This is particularly important as you advance in your career.
Cultivate mentorship opportunities and network as much as possible. Eventually step into a mentorship role.
Honesty, integrity and character matter. Be true to yourself and never deviate from your moral compass. Listen to your instincts always.
Create a strong LinkedIn profile and update regularly. It is one of the top recruiting sites.
Dany Doueiri
ProfessorWhat Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dany Doueiri: Have a team mentality, share, keep learning, and seek all professional development opportunities available to you, through your work or individually.
What Lead Data 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 Lead Data 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.
Xiaowen Chen Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorWestern Kentucky University
Psychology
What Lead Data 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 Lead Data 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.
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Economics and Business AnalyticsWidener University
Business/Commerce
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.: There are many reasons that people like about being a business analyst, including reasons listed as follows: 1. Analytical Skills and Data Exploration: BAs often analyze data to understand trends and identify areas for improvement. Seeing a successful implementation and its positive impact can be very rewarding. 2. Problem-solving. BAs get to identify inefficiencies and propose solutions that can improve how a business operates. 3. Continuous learning. Business analysts may work on a range of projects and the field of business analysis may be constantly evolving, which required BAs to actively cultivate skills in new businesses. For example, the coming of the AI era requires BAs to master AI fundamentals and data fluency. 4. While some thrive on the problem-solving and communication aspects of a BA role, others may find them less appealing. Carefully consider your personality and preferences to see if this aligns with your career goals.
What Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.: The rise of AI has brought many opportunities for the professions like business analysts in terms of AI integration. Businesses will need analysts who can bridge the gap between AI and human needs and focus on more strategic areas like identifying ethical considerations of AI implementation, developing plans to mitigate AI bias, and designing human-AI collaboration workflows. For people who are interested in entering this profession, I would suggest adapting your skillset to include AI understanding, data storytelling, and strategic thinking to be well-positioned in the future.
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Taylor Poe Ph.D.: Remember to problem solve creatively just as you did in your coursework. The critical thinking and problem-solving skills you learned will be continually tested in whatever field you go into from your math degree. Also remember the benefits of collaborating with colleagues both in the field and in other disciplines.
What Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Taylor Poe Ph.D.: Data analysis is certainly a growing field, and we cannot deny the benefits of having some programming skills. The ability to communicate and work with others will open doors to bigger projects.
What will help Lead Data Analysts 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.
What Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. DAWN TOLONEN MBA: Congratulations, all your hard work paid off and you’re ready to start your career! As you transition from college, remember that learning doesn’t end once you receive your diploma. Develop an affinity for lifelong learning. Be curious, ask questions, and remain humble.
What will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. DAWN TOLONEN MBA: For the near future concentrate on three areas, soft skills, critical thinking, and artificial intelligence (AI). Your technical skills helped you land the job, but it’s your soft skills that lead to promotion.
Thomas Mathews CFA
InstructorFlorida Gulf Coast University
Finance And Financial Management Services
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Thomas Mathews CFA: GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR AT A SUITABLE POSITION, LEARN AS MUCH AS YOU CAN, FIND A MENTOR/COACH WHO IS WELL-RESPECTED IN THE ORGANIZATION, DO NOT BE AFRAID TO WORK HARD, DO NOT BE AFRAID TO RAISE YOUR HAND TO LEAD OR SUPPORT CRITICAL INITIATIVES.
What Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Praneet Tiwari: Maximizing one’s salary potential is a long-term strategy, but the best way is to start out strong by searching for the best for yourself. For instance, companies in high-growth industries often offer more competitive salaries and better opportunities for promotion. If you are okay with a lower base salary but interested in more profit-sharing, then consider startups as they have equity ownership or profit-sharing models which can lead to a higher compensation package in the long run. In any situation, however, be prepared to negotiate. Before entering any salary negotiation, research the typical salary range for your position, location, and experience level. Make sure to practice your negotiation skills and have a clear idea of your desired salary range and the reasons why you deserve it. Focus on the value you bring to the company and highlight your skills. Most universities have a career center or student success center that can help you do mock interviews and negotiations. Once you land the job, make sure to deliver results, volunteer for challenging projects, and exceed expectations. This allows you to seek out raises and promotions quickly. And finally, be prepared to job-hop if needed. Strategic job-hopping may be needed if you find that the job is not a good fit, or the growth trajectory is not what you want.
What will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Praneet Tiwari: Continue to be a learner! Business degrees give students the foundation they need to begin their careers but to continue to do well in their careers, they need to keep learning. Find opportunities to learn more to keep evolving whether it’s the use of free resources when available or if your organization funds additional degrees then use those opportunities too. The business world is constantly evolving so it’s important to stay current. Another important thing to focus on is networking. Often after we get our first jobs, we get complacent when it comes to networking but building a network is crucial. Connect with other professionals through LinkedIn, your university’s alumni associations, and events specific to your industry.
Tim Scales
Director of Center for Entrepreneurship – Director Center for Economic Education and Senior Lecturer in Business and EconomicsWhat general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Tim Scales: I would advise a graduate beginning their career in the field to focus on building a strong network, continuously learning and adapting to new technologies and trends, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals in the industry.
What Lead Data Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tim Scales: To maximize salary potential when starting a career in the field, it's important to negotiate effectively, demonstrate value through performance, seek out opportunities for advancement and additional responsibilities, and continuously invest in improving skills and knowledge relevant to the industry.
What will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Tim Scales: In the next 3-5 years, I believe skills such as data analysis, digital marketing, and adaptability to changing market conditions will become increasingly important and prevalent in the field.
What will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Terésa Dowell-Vest Ph.D., M.F.A.: First, I would celebrate them getting to that point. Everything after is going to be challenging and, in some cases…in most cases, difficult to navigate, so boosting their confidence and morale are key to ensuring they see themselves as worthy of success. Second, network! For young people beginning their careers, it is vital to meet other people with similar passions and pursuits. Find your tribe and climb together. Finally, craft a plan. A dream is not a plan. You need to create a BUSINESS PLAN for your life. Establish what your goals are, pare them down to one or two SMART goals, determine who will likely be supporters of your goal, create a brand for yourself (social media, business cards, a personal motto) and determine the resources you’ll need to achieve your goal.
Jasmine Tang
SUNY College at Geneseo
Bilingual, Multilingual, And Multicultural Education
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
Jasmine Tang: You need to set a goal first then go for it. Also, your first job is not your permanent job. Try to have a break from the school or work before your new job, new school term after the graduation. Be healthy & happy!
Spyros Kitsiou Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorUniversity of Illinois at Chicago
Medical Illustration And Informatics
What general advice would you give to a Lead Data Analyst?
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 Lead Data Analyst 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 will help Lead Data Analysts increase their earning potential?
Spyros Kitsiou Ph.D.: Continue to build your health informatics skills and competencies; stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your field; create a professional network by going to venues, conferences, workshops, and other social events; and be professional and respectful in all your interactions. Don't forget to send a Thank you email with 24 hours after your interview.