Akron vs Columbus: Data Analyst Salary (2026)
Compare data analyst salaries between Akron, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Akron, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,720 | $72,183▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $32.08 | $34.71▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,339▲ | $42,481 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,073 | $55,560▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,602 | $95,921▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,739 | $113,259▲ |
| Total Employed | 270 | 1,480▲ |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for data analysts, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Akron.
The salary gap between Akron and Columbus is $5,463 (8.19%). Columbus's median is -10.21% compared to the US national median of $80,394.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Akron spans $48,400,Columbus spans $70,778. Columbus has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced data analysts.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbus ($75,609 effective) pays 5.81% more than Akron ($71,458 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Akron if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($72,183/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,259)
- ✓Larger job market (1,480 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $75,609)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, data analyst salaries in Akron grew -20.5% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -27.3% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Akron, OH
$80,290 (2021) → $63,859 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$94,980 (2021) → $69,088 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays data analysts more: Akron or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Akron and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Akron to Columbus as a data analyst?
What do entry-level data analysts earn in Akron vs Columbus?
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Written by Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience in data analysis. She specializes in business intelligence and works at a tech consulting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.48% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst, a licensed data analyst with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov