Entry-Level Data Analyst Salary in Texarkana, AR: $26,139 (2026)
Quick Answer:New data analysts entering the Texarkana, AR job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $26,139 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 15-2051, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Texarkana's local price level (BEA RPP 86.9 — 13% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $30,079 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($43,008) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates launching their careers in Texarkana, Arkansas, the entry-level data analyst salary presents a starting point of approximately $26,139, setting realistic expectations for those eager to break into the field. With a city median salary of $43,008, there is a notable gap that illustrates the available growth potential over the initial years. As newcomers to the industry gain experience, they can realistically aim to progress toward the 25th percentile salary of $31,777 within a few years, ultimately striving to achieve the city’s median salary as they build their skills. Given the 4.48% annual growth rate anticipated, Texarkana appears to be a decent market for new graduates, especially considering the relatively lower cost of living index of 86.9 compared to the national average.
About the Texarkana Market
Salary estimated from Arkansas average ($78,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Texarkana
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Texarkana
Entry-level data analysts in Texarkana, AR typically start between $26,139 and $31,777 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $40,523 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $43,008 — 46.5% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average data analysis program cost in Arkansas of $42,000 represents just 160.68% of the starting data analyst pay ($26,139/year) in Texarkana. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates reflect two main pathways: bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, or mathematics ($40k-$120k), or master's degree in data science ($30k-$80k). Intensive bootcamps ($10k-$20k) offer faster entry but typically require prior technical background.
DA Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Texarkana
- 1Research the Texarkana market: entry-level data analyst pay ranges from $26,139 to $31,777, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the data analysis field — employers in AR often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Texarkana, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Texarkana for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Texarkana's below-average cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Data Analyst Compensation Range
The data analyst wage spread in Texarkana is $40,523 ( 155.03%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $26,139, experienced hygienists can earn up to $66,662.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$22,112
2025 BLS Actual
$25,018
2026 Current Est.
$26,139
2021–2027 Growth
+23.5%
Salary Trajectory for Data Analysts in Texarkana (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.48% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $22,112 | Actual |
| 2022 | $21,770 | Actual |
| 2023 | $22,722 | Actual |
| 2024 | $40,033 | Actual |
| 2025 | $25,018 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $26,139 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $27,310 | Projected |
Entry-level data analyst compensation (10th percentile) in Texarkana, AR grew 13.1% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $22,112 in 2021 to $25,018 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $27,310. New graduates entering the Texarkana job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Texarkana metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 4.48% CAGR derived from 5-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your data analysis Career in Texarkana
A variety of local employers in Texarkana seek to onboard early-career data analysts, offering avenues for recent graduates to establish themselves in this competitive profession. Companies operating in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and retail are increasingly recognizing the value of data-driven insights, creating opportunities for positions that involve robust data analysis and reporting. While major tech firms may not have a strong presence in the region, networking within local businesses or pursuing internships can enhance a candidate's profile. Additionally, continuing education in advanced credentials—such as a Master's in Computer Science or Statistics or proficiency in languages like Python and SQL—can lead to better starting salaries. Within their first few years, aspiring analysts should consider focusing on portfolio-building through projects, open-source contributions, or Kaggle competitions to signal their expertise. As they progress through these initial years, Texarkana’s market can allow analysts to gradually increase their compensation, positioning them for future opportunities in tech-centric positions that offer more lucrative packages as they gain experience.
More salary data for Texarkana, AR:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for data analysts in Texarkana in 2026?
How fast do data analyst salaries grow in Texarkana?
Is data analysis school worth it in Texarkana?
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How do I become a data analyst in Arkansas?
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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
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new data analysis graduates. A 4.48% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Texarkana. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Texarkana is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.48%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for data analysts (SOC 15-2051).
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