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Job outlook for software analysts in the United States
Software analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected software analyst job growth rate is 9% from 2018-2028.
About 56,000 new jobs for software analysts are projected over the next decade.
Software analyst salaries have increased 8% for software analysts in the last 5 years.
There are over 258,762 software analysts currently employed in the United States.
There are 274,053 active software analyst job openings in the US.
The average software analyst salary is $78,400.
Are software analyst jobs in demand?
Software analyst job and salary trends over time
Software analyst jobs over time
Software analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 258,762 | 0.08% |
| 2020 | 413,372 | 0.12% |
| 2019 | 268,361 | 0.08% |
| 2018 | 515,663 | 0.16% |
| 2017 | 493,593 | 0.15% |
Average software analyst salary over time
Software analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $78,400 | $37.69 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $75,816 | $36.45 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $74,100 | $35.62 | +0.5% |
| 2022 | $73,708 | $35.44 | +1.2% |
| 2021 | $72,831 | $35.01 | +1.7% |
Software analyst jobs by state
Most common states for software analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 797 | 115% |
| 2 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 532 | 50% |
| 3 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 3,619 | 49% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 3,182 | 46% |
| 5 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 3,834 | 45% |
| 6 | Delaware | 961,939 | 415 | 43% |
| 7 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,728 | 42% |
| 8 | Vermont | 623,657 | 258 | 41% |
| 9 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 1,244 | 40% |
| 10 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 2,380 | 39% |
| 11 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,831 | 33% |
| 12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 433 | 32% |
| 13 | California | 39,536,653 | 12,379 | 31% |
| 14 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 328 | 31% |
| 15 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,672 | 30% |
| 16 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 2,395 | 27% |
| 17 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 773 | 27% |
| 18 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 155 | 27% |
| 19 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 496 | 26% |
| 20 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 200 | 26% |
Most common cities for software analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Duluth | 1 | 3% | $71,037 |
| 2 | Huntington Beach | 3 | 1% | $88,551 |
| 3 | Billings | 1 | 1% | $70,258 |
| 4 | Huntsville | 1 | 1% | $65,038 |
| 5 | New York | 3 | 0% | $89,440 |
| 6 | Atlanta | 2 | 0% | $70,840 |
| 7 | Oklahoma City | 2 | 0% | $79,491 |
| 8 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $81,032 |
| 9 | Dallas | 1 | 0% | $75,374 |
| 10 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $72,409 |
| 11 | Detroit | 1 | 0% | $76,855 |
| 12 | Henderson | 1 | 0% | $76,247 |
| 13 | Jersey City | 1 | 0% | $83,092 |
| 14 | Santa Ana | 1 | 0% | $88,694 |
Software Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of software analyst experts
UMass Lowell
Merrimack College
University of Cincinnati Clermont College
University of Washington
Kent State University
University of Southern Maine
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Belmont University
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Sepehr Mohammadian: 2. Computer science remains in high demand in today's job market, with California exemplifying this trend. In recent years, the number of open positions in the state has exceeded the average demand rate by 1.5 times. At the University of the Pacific, our CS program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in this landscape. Through our co-op program, in collaboration with recruiters such as Nvidia, HP, and Lawrence Livermore National Lab, students have the opportunity to participate in paid internships lasting approximately 8 months. These internships provide invaluable exposure to real-world work settings and allow students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts and gain valuable industry insights. It is worth noting that many of our graduates choose to return to the same company post-graduation.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sepehr Mohammadian: 1. This is a pretty broad question. CS degree graduates can engage in different tasks and responsibilities based on the nature of their profession. Examples include 1) software engineering, in which the individual's efforts are toward leading or contributing to software development projects, 2) IT management, where the individual mainly oversees technology strategies and their implementation, 3) cybersecurity, where the individual's responsibilities are associated with the protection of systems and data from cyber threats, and 4) data and AI engineering, where the individual works on machine learning applications and analyze and derive insights from large datasets.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Sepehr Mohammadian: 3. The appeal of computer science among students is often attributed to the relatively short journey from concept to execution. Unlike many engineering fields where hardware constraints can impede the swift realization of ideas, the development of software offers a streamlined process. With nothing more than access to a computer and relative proficiency in programming, individuals can swiftly transform their ideas into tangible solutions. This accessibility and agility contribute to the popularity of CS among aspiring students. On the other hand, CS heavily relies on abstract analysis as a fundamental skill for success. Students who struggle with grasping abstract concepts may find themselves frustrated or disengaged with the field.
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator, Masters of Science in EntrepreneurshipUMass Lowell
Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Remember that your first job does not define your career. You may build a career around that first job or you may use it as a valuable learning experience to change careers at some point. Eventually, what we call our careers are only really seen in hindsight. They are part of a narrative we construct about ourselves. So, don't worry to much about whether you are on the 'right path'. The right path is the one you chose at the time given the constraints and alternatives before you. But make the most of every opportunity you can to learn more about yourself - what you like, what you don't like, and what you find fulfilling about your work.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Obviously we are seeing a tremendous increase in AI and other digital technologies. These will become a more crucial skill set for many careers going forward. But I wouldn't downplay the role of what are traditionally seen as soft skills like empathy, communications, and judgment. Not only can these distinguish you from robots but from your human competitors as well.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: If all you want is the highest potential starting salary, then you should aim for careers that offer them. But that is a shortsighted way to view things. For example, many careers that have tournament-like pay structures (think entertainment) often have very low starting salaries but the so-called winners enjoy outsized financial gains. If you are thinking about a more traditional career, I think it's important to make sure you are more valuable to your employer than they are to you. This means you have to market yourself, both to your current employer as well as to potential ones. Of course, this approach may not be for everyone and maximizing your salary potential is only one thing you should be considering when assessing job and career opportunities.
What Software 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 Software 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 Software Analyst?
Reshad Osmani PhD: As a new graduate starting your career, I recommend staying curious, being open to learning from others, seeking feedback, building networks, and being proactive in tackling challenges. Keep developing your analytical skills, stay adaptable, and remember that mistakes are opportunities for growth. Learning by doing should be your number one priority.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Reshad Osmani PhD: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career, consider the following strategies: negotiate your starting salary based on market research, demonstrate your value through accomplishments, seek out opportunities for advancement and growth, continuously improve your skills, consider additional certifications or degrees, and be willing to explore job opportunities that offer competitive compensation packages.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Reshad Osmani PhD: In the next 3-5 years, skills like data analysis, digital literacy, adaptability, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are likely to become even more important across various fields due to the increasing influence of technology, automation, and remote work trends. Additionally, skills related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and sustainability may also gain prominence.
Renee Robinson Ph.D.
Professor of CommunicationWhat general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: How can you maximize your salary potential when starting your career in your field?
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: What skills do you think will become more important and prevalent in the field in the next 3-5 years?
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: That would be awesome! We were hoping you could answer the following questions: 1. What general advice would you give to a graduate beginning their career in the field?
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): Skills that will become more important in the future are understanding quality measures. Six Sigma Lean principles are very applicable to what we do and help to keep a balanced workflow. A second thing is to understand that you and your coworkers are human. Find resilience tools that help you to keep a calm focus and practice good communication. Stay connected to national organizations for articles and training to stay connected to the future.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): To maximize your salary potential, obtain some experience while you are in school. If there is a clinic to volunteer at or a student job in a lab, take it. Higher pay is almost always offered to the evening and night shift technicians. If your new workplace is on 8-hour nights or evenings, create a schedule where evenings and nights do 10s or 12s and suggest it to the leadership. This makes a much better work-life balance.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): As a new graduate, remember why you decided on this career. Was it because you liked to help people? Then remember your results are improving the quality of life for another person. Is it because you like detective work? Then view each sample as a puzzle to work through. Is it because you want to further your education? Then never stop learning.
Prof. Mohammad Elahee Ph.D.
Perlroth Professor of Int’l. BusinessWhat general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Prof. Mohammad Elahee Ph.D.: The main advice I would give to a new graduate is to be prepared for continuous learning for the rest of his working life. AI and other technological breakthroughs are changing the job market landscape. The skillset that would help one get a job would not keep him/her there for long. To remain marketable, one has to regularly acquire new skills, develop and maintain a strong professional network and scan the market regularly to gauge impending changes.
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Marilyn Krogh: Statistical and communication skills are always in demand, and familiarity with a little AI would be a bonus.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Marilyn Krogh: Know yourself—take time to identify and name your own strengths, interests and priorities in your work life. Take advantage of the services from your university career development center.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Marilyn Krogh: Have a strong undergraduate portfolio, do an internship before graduation, and be willing to 'go an extra mile' for your employer.
What will help Software 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.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
David Hart: Most businesses may hire you on like a consultant. The employees rarely welcome consultants in their business so that early friction is something that most new Business Analysts find distasteful, however if taken in that context, it is also the most challenging part of the field. When you discover processes that will enhance the productivity of the company and help the employees see more profit sharing you can end up being the hero. Most employees spend most of their work career never feeling fulfilled. This profession will definitely give you that rewarding feeling.
Dany Doueiri
ProfessorWhat will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dany Doueiri: Ability to adapt to new realities, creativity, ethics, innovation, and resilience to face new realities.
What Software 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 Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: Once you have your first job, ask about or determine the 20% of your supervisor’s job that they hate and start doing that for them. They will love you for it and it will quickly get you recognition. You’ll also be well on your way to learning your boss’s job. Continue doing this as you progress in your career (Kudos to Theo Epstein, former GM for the Red Sox, for this recommendation)
No matter the task you’re given, do it to the absolute best of your abilities. In the professional world, you may often be given menial tasks or tasks that you don’t believe are part of your job description. Doing those tasks to the absolute best of your ability leads to increased trust, recognition and responsibility and will put you “above class.” If asked, the coffee you bring should be the best your boss has ever had. You never know who’s watching.
Don’t expect credit and don’t ask for credit when things go right; give the credit to others.
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Melissa Zimdars: To remember that you're going to learn a lot on the job and that failure is part of the learning process. It's okay to ask questions and to not know things, but you must be willing to take feedback, adjust, and grow.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Melissa Zimdars: - The ability to communicate effectively is an evergreen skill that only seems to be getting more important as the number of ways we communicate with each other, our supervisors, and with clients or outside stakeholders keeps expanding. - The ability to adapt to and learn how to navigate new technologies and platforms.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Melissa Zimdars: Recognize that your first career opportunity won't be your last. If the job you land after college does not have opportunities for growth or advancement, it's imperative that you keep an eye out for them elsewhere as you continue to gain experience in your field.
Fawen Zhang PhD
Professor of AudiologyUniversity of Cincinnati Clermont College
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Victor Menaldo: Learn, learn and learn some more. Adopt a growth mindset where you never stop learning. Gain economic literacy and financial literacy and historical literacy and statistical literacy. This will allow you to complement AI: ask it good questions, contextualize and evaluate its answers, and ask good follow up questions.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Victor Menaldo: Interacting with AI and knowing how to best exploit it to get the most out of it: increase productivity and value added in whatever field one is in.
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Victor Menaldo: Develop oral communication skills that allow you to speak in an articulate manner and organize your thoughts to signal your competence, knowledge, work ethic, and willingness to keep learning and improving.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Vaneet Kaur: There are two sets of skills I will highly encourage graduates to proactively start building. Firstly, business graduates need to develop higher-order skills and capabilities like knowledge-based dynamic capabilities. These will help them to (a) constantly collect knowledge about emerging opportunities (and threats) in the industry, (b) mobilize themselves and their resources to bring identified opportunities into fruition, and (c) constantly renew their skills to effectively respond to the changes in the environment. Developing such knowledge-based dynamic capabilities will automatically prepare them for the different waves of skill set requirements that will keep arising in the job market. Secondly, it is no secret that we are living in the times of artificial intelligence and automation. So, in this day and age, it is extremely important that graduates learn to ride the wave of automation rather than being discouraged by it. Business graduates are set to contribute to the world with their business acumen and expertise, what they can do to complement it is to develop low-code, no-code skills. Such skills will help graduates to automate routine processes so that their time and energies can be strategically channelized towards those activities and processes that can add significant value to their organizations.
Tove Rasmussen
LecturerUniversity of Southern Maine
Specialized Sales, Merchandising And Marketing Operations
What general advice would you give to a Software Analyst?
Tove Rasmussen: Tove Rasmussen advises graduates beginning their career in the field to...
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tove Rasmussen: Tove Rasmussen believes that the skills that will become more important and prevalent in the field in the next 3-5 years are...
What will help Software Analysts increase their earning potential?
Tove Rasmussen: Tove Rasmussen suggests that to maximize salary potential when starting a career in the field, individuals should...
What will help Software 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.
What Software Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Tisha Brown-Gaines: Colleges and universities try very hard to prepare students for life after graduation. Most students have the required skill sets for their field of study. However, the journey after attaining a degree still can be tricky. Selecting the right field for you is paramount. Information Systems (IS) is a great major. The interdisciplinary aspect of Information Systems (IS) allows graduates to select from numerous opportunities in the field. However, this can be quite overwhelming when students have options to apply to countless jobs. My advice would be to reflect on several assignments, projects or internship experiences during your undergraduate career that captured your interest, made you smile while completing the assignment or even one which began as a random goal and became personal. Start by identifying tasks that made you inquire more about a topic outside of the minimum requirements or a task that was challenging but helped to improve a skill set. Reflecting on these experiences will allow you to effectively navigate what areas to consider and what jobs to apply to in a sea of endless opportunities. Additionally, having the ability to reflect on past accomplishments can motivate and challenge graduates to achieve additional goals as they continue building their careers.