Cary vs Charlotte: Data Analyst Salary (2026)
Compare data analyst salaries between Cary, NC and Charlotte, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cary, NC | Charlotte, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,330 | $88,572▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.62 | $42.59▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,803 | $47,336▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $58,238 | $65,068▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $102,823 | $110,645▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,512▲ | $114,477 |
| Total Employed | 44 | 4,420▲ |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for data analysts, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cary.
The salary gap between Cary and Charlotte is $8,242 (10.26%). Charlotte's median is +10.17% compared to the US national median of $80,394.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cary spans $77,709,Charlotte spans $67,141. Cary has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Charlotte ($90,985 effective) pays 6.02% more than Cary ($85,823 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cary if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,512)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,572/year)
- ✓Larger job market (4,420 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $90,985)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, data analyst salaries in Cary grew -24.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -31.7% growth in Charlotte over the same period.
Cary, NC
$101,613 (2024) → $76,886 (2025)
Charlotte, NC
$124,200 (2021) → $84,774 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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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