Data Analyst Hourly Pay in Meridian, MS: $20.10 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a data analyst working in Meridian, MS runs $20.10 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $41,801 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 15-2051). Weighted against Meridian's regional price level (BEA RPP 85.7, 14% below national), each hour of work buys what $23.46 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $25,087 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In Meridian, Mississippi, data analysts earn a median hourly rate of $20.10, which is significantly lower than the national median of $38.65. This hourly pay reflects the market capacity and economic conditions within the region, providing part-time workers or those engaged in per-diem work an opportunity to earn a competitive wage while maintaining flexibility. For instance, a data analyst working three days a week could expect to bring home approximately $25,000 annually, depending on hours worked and project involvement. The hourly range for this profession spans from $11.72 for entry-level positions to $31.15 for the most experienced analysts, suggesting a clear tiered structure based on expertise and employer type in Meridian’s job market.
About the Meridian Market
Salary estimated from Mississippi average ($75,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Data Analyst Hourly Wage Breakdown
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Per 8hr Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $11.72 | $93.78 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $14.50 | $116.01 |
| Median (P50) | $20.10 | $160.82 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $25.72 | $205.78 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $31.15 | $249.16 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Meridian
Based on $20.10/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $20.10/hr, a data analyst working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Meridian, MS can expect to earn approximately $41,812 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $24,122. With a cost-of-living index of 85.70 (below the national average), these earnings stretch further in Meridian.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Meridian
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $804.08 | $3,484 | $41,812 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $482.45 | $2,091 | $25,087 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $321.63 | $1,394 | $16,725 |
Compare DA Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Data Analyst (Meridian) | $20.10 |
| Data Analyst (National Avg) | $40.39 |
| Software Developer (National Avg) | $64.54 |
| Machine Learning Engineer (National Avg) | $66.77 |
| Statistician (National Avg) | $50.61 |
Data Analysts in Meridian, MS earn a median of $41,801 per year (2026 est.), which is 48.00% lower than the national median of $80,394 and 5.20% below the Mississippi state average of $44,094.
Data Analyst Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $20.10/hr = $25,087/year (purchasing power: $29,273).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $41,812/year (purchasing power: $48,789).
CoL index: 85.7 (100 = national average). Your dollars stretch further here.
2021 BLS Actual
$16.15/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$19.24/hr
2026 Current Est.
$20.10/hr
2021–2027 Growth
+30.1%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Data Analysts in Meridian (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.48% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $16.15/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $16.56/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $17.29/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $29.29/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $19.24/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $20.10/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $21.00/hr | Projected |
Based on 5 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for data analysts in Meridian grew 19.1% from $16.15/hr (2021) to $19.24/hr (2025). At a 4.48% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $21.00/hr by 2027. Part-time and per-diem data analysts can use this multi-year trend to benchmark future contract negotiations.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Meridian 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.
Working as an Hourly Data Analyst in Meridian
When examining the earning potential for data analysts who take on part-time positions or per-diem roles, the landscape looks quite varied. With per-diem or contract positions often billing between $100 to $200 per hour, those with deeper expertise in machine learning or specialized consulting can earn significantly more — up to $600 per hour in niche markets focused on generative AI. In Meridian, the type of company also influences hourly pay; for instance, tech giants and consulting firms may offer higher rates compared to local firms. Many analysts face the decision between higher hourly compensation without benefits or a lower rate that includes health insurance and stability. Negotiation becomes critical; understanding the market rate and the distinct value one brings to the table can lead to better contracts. As the demand for skilled analysts continues to grow at an annual rate of 4.48%, professionals in Meridian might find favorable opportunities ahead if they position themselves strategically in the job market.
More salary data for Meridian, MS:
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
Hourly wage figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. A 4.48% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to estimate current 2026 hourly rates for data analysts in Meridian. Part-time and full-time income estimates assume consistent weekly hours and do not account for overtime, benefits, or seasonal variation.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Meridian 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