Entry-Level Data Analyst Salary in Scarborough, ME: $28,448 (2026)
Quick Answer:New data analysts entering the Scarborough, ME job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $28,448 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 15-2051, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Scarborough's local price level (BEA RPP 99.6 — 0% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $28,562 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($48,895) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
New graduates entering the field of data analysis in Scarborough, Maine, can expect starting salaries that reflect the local economic conditions and job market. In 2026, the entry-level data analyst salary in Scarborough is projected to begin at around $28,448, which is considerably lower than the city median annual salary of $48,895. For those in the early stages of their careers, there is a broader growth trajectory as they gain experience—moving from the lower 10th percentile at $28,448 to an estimated $37,008 by the 25th percentile within three to five years. This steady growth indicates that Scarborough presents a reasonable job market for new graduates, although the initial salaries suggest that entry-level positions may not offer substantial financial rewards until individuals progress further in their careers.
About the Scarborough Market
Salary estimated from Maine average ($95,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Scarborough
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 Scarborough
Entry-level data analysts in Scarborough, ME typically start between $28,448 and $37,008 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $45,685 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $48,895 — 39.18% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average data analysis program cost in Maine of $70,000 represents just 246.06% of the starting data analyst pay ($28,448/year) in Scarborough. 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 Scarborough
- 1Research the Scarborough market: entry-level data analyst pay ranges from $28,448 to $37,008, 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 ME often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Scarborough, 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 Scarborough for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Scarborough's moderate 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 Scarborough is $45,685 ( 160.59%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $28,448, experienced hygienists can earn up to $74,133.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$24,065
2025 BLS Actual
$27,228
2026 Current Est.
$28,448
2021–2027 Growth
+23.5%
Salary Trajectory for Data Analysts in Scarborough (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.48% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $24,065 | Actual |
| 2022 | $23,693 | Actual |
| 2023 | $24,730 | Actual |
| 2024 | $53,107 | Actual |
| 2025 | $27,228 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $28,448 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $29,722 | Projected |
Entry-level data analyst compensation (10th percentile) in Scarborough, ME grew 13.1% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $24,065 in 2021 to $27,228 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $29,722. New graduates entering the Scarborough job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Scarborough 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 Scarborough
Employers in Scarborough seeking to recruit entry-level talent often include a mix of technology firms, consulting agencies, and data-driven startups. While major FAANG companies may not have a direct presence in Scarborough, local businesses often seek graduates who are well-versed in essential data-related technologies like Python and SQL. Strong academic credentials such as a Master's or PhD in computer science, statistics, or a quantitative discipline can significantly enhance starting pay in the region. Additionally, participating in Kaggle competitions or contributing to open-source projects can serve as valuable portfolio signals to potential employers. New graduates should take strategic steps in the first few years, with realistic expectations of salary growth built around the competitive nature of the industry. The average total compensation in more advanced roles, particularly in machine learning (ML) engineering or data science, can skyrocket to $300,000-$700,000 for senior positions, making early career moves crucial for long-term earning potential.
More salary data for Scarborough, ME:
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 Scarborough. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Scarborough 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