Columbus vs Lorain: Data Analyst Salary (2026)
Compare data analyst salaries between Columbus, OH and Lorain, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Lorain, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $72,183▲ | $65,696 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.71▲ | $31.58 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,481▲ | $38,104 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,560▲ | $48,682 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,921▲ | $84,091 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,259▲ | $101,828 |
| Total Employed | 1,480▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for data analysts, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lorain.
The salary gap between Columbus and Lorain is $6,487 (9.87%). 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 Columbus spans $70,778,Lorain spans $63,724. Columbus 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, Columbus ($75,609 effective) pays 4.39% more than Lorain ($72,432 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Lorain if…
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, data analyst salaries in Columbus grew -27.3% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -32.8% growth in Lorain over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$94,980 (2021) → $69,088 (2025)
Lorain, OH
$93,512 (2024) → $62,879 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Lorain, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays data analysts more: Columbus or Lorain?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Lorain?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Lorain as a data analyst?
What do entry-level data analysts earn in Columbus vs Lorain?
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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