Entry-Level Data Analyst Salary in Dodge City, KS: $25,701 (2026)
Quick Answer:New data analysts entering the Dodge City, KS job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $25,701 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 15-2051, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Dodge City's local price level (BEA RPP 90.9 — 9% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $28,274 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($44,247) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For those stepping into the data analysis field in Dodge City, Kansas, the entry-level data analyst salary typically starts at around $25,701 in 2026. This figure signifies a significant gap compared to the city's median salary of $44,247, which speaks to the realities of beginning one’s career in this profession. However, there is a clear growth trajectory for new graduates, as they can expect to earn approximately $31,858 at the 25th percentile within their initial few years, moving toward the median salary over a span of three to five years. Currently, Dodge City presents a somewhat promising market for new graduates in this field; while salaries might not reach the national average of $80,394, the local cost of living is lower, making the starting pay more competitive when adjusted for living expenses.
About the Dodge City Market
Salary estimated from Kansas average ($92,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Dodge City
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 Dodge City
Entry-level data analysts in Dodge City, KS typically start between $25,701 and $31,858 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $42,883 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $44,247 — 44.96% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average data analysis program cost in Kansas of $45,000 represents just 175.09% of the starting data analyst pay ($25,701/year) in Dodge City. 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 Dodge City
- 1Research the Dodge City market: entry-level data analyst pay ranges from $25,701 to $31,858, 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 KS often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Dodge City, 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 Dodge City for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Dodge City'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 Dodge City is $42,883 ( 166.85%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $25,701, experienced hygienists can earn up to $68,584.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$21,742
2025 BLS Actual
$24,599
2026 Current Est.
$25,701
2021–2027 Growth
+23.5%
Salary Trajectory for Data Analysts in Dodge City (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.48% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $21,742 | Actual |
| 2022 | $21,405 | Actual |
| 2023 | $22,342 | Actual |
| 2024 | $46,449 | Actual |
| 2025 | $24,599 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $25,701 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $26,852 | Projected |
Entry-level data analyst compensation (10th percentile) in Dodge City, KS grew 13.1% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $21,742 in 2021 to $24,599 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $26,852. New graduates entering the Dodge City job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Dodge City 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 Dodge City
Job opportunities for recent graduates entering the data analyst workforce in Dodge City often stem from a variety of local firms and organizations that value analytical skills. While larger tech companies may not have a substantial presence in the area, local businesses and smaller firms may be underway in integrating data-focused functions. To increase competitiveness, aspiring data analysts should consider obtaining credentials that enhance their appeal to potential employers. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and SQL is essential, alongside experience with machine learning frameworks. Participation in Kaggle competitions or contributing to open-source projects can also serve as impressive portfolio highlights. In an evolving job market, it's realistic for those starting out to aim for a salary growth of around 4.48% annually over the first few years, especially if they pursue additional certifications or internships while establishing their professional networks. The strategic choice between remaining on the technical track or transitioning into management could have lasting impacts on long-term earnings potential, particularly as demand for data-driven roles continues to grow.
More salary data for Dodge City, KS:
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
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 Dodge City. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Dodge City 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