Entry-Level Data Analyst Salary in Lawrence, KS: $27,430 (2026)
Quick Answer:New data analysts entering the Lawrence, KS job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $27,430 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 15-2051, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Lawrence's local price level (BEA RPP 90.9 — 9% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $30,176 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($47,294) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Starting pay for new graduates entering the data analyst field in Lawrence, Kansas is projected to be around $27,430 annually in 2026. This figure positions entry-level salaries well below the city’s median salary of $47,294, indicating a notable gap that new professionals may need to navigate early in their careers. As individuals gain experience over the first three to five years, they can expect their earnings to rise, with the first quartile earnings reaching approximately $35,069. This growth trajectory reflects a steady progression that can make Lawrence an attractive market for recent graduates, although initial salaries may feel modest compared to higher national averages. Given the projected annual growth rate of 4.48%, aspiring data analysts may find a gradually improving salary landscape in their pursuit of advancement.
About the Lawrence Market
Salary estimated from Kansas average ($92,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Lawrence
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 Lawrence
Entry-level data analysts in Lawrence, KS typically start between $27,430 and $35,069 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $45,875 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $47,294 — 41.17% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average data analysis program cost in Kansas of $45,000 represents just 164.05% of the starting data analyst pay ($27,430/year) in Lawrence. 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 Lawrence
- 1Research the Lawrence market: entry-level data analyst pay ranges from $27,430 to $35,069, 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 Lawrence, 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 Lawrence for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Lawrence'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 Lawrence is $45,875 ( 167.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $27,430, experienced hygienists can earn up to $73,305.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$23,205
2025 BLS Actual
$26,254
2026 Current Est.
$27,430
2021–2027 Growth
+23.5%
Salary Trajectory for Data Analysts in Lawrence (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.48% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $23,205 | Actual |
| 2022 | $22,845 | Actual |
| 2023 | $23,845 | Actual |
| 2024 | $49,047 | Actual |
| 2025 | $26,254 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $27,430 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $28,659 | Projected |
Entry-level data analyst compensation (10th percentile) in Lawrence, KS grew 13.1% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $23,205 in 2021 to $26,254 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $28,659. New graduates entering the Lawrence job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Lawrence 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 Lawrence
Several employers in Lawrence actively recruit entry-level data analysts, allowing new graduates to take their first steps into the industry. While local companies may not operate on the massive scale of FAANG firms, they still offer valuable experience. Organizations often seek candidates who possess a Master’s degree or higher in fields such as computer science, statistics, or mathematics, alongside strong skills in Python and SQL. Internships with reputable firms can significantly bolster a new grad's profile, reflecting a preference for practical experience over just academic credentials. Strategies for the first few years should include focusing on projects that showcase analytical skills and fostering connections with professionals in the field, as clear career paths will often require ongoing learning in emerging technologies like machine learning. Lawrence may present a stepping stone for individuals aiming for higher total compensation packages down the line, especially in scenarios where startup opportunities exist that provide equity-heavy compensation—which can lead to substantial financial rewards down the line.
More salary data for Lawrence, 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 Lawrence. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Lawrence 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