Data Analyst Salary in Nashville 2026

Quick Answer

Data Analyst Salary in Nashville: Full Breakdown

As of 2024, data analysts in Nashville earn a mean annual salary of $123,580, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. This figure reflects the Nashville MSA, which encompasses the greater metropolitan region including nearby cities such as Franklin, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, and Hendersonville.

The $123,580 annual salary translates to approximately $10,298 per month (gross) or $59.12 per hour for a standard 40-hour work week. This positions Nashville’s data analyst compensation within a competitive range for mid-sized tech and business analytics markets in the Southeast.

Understanding the Role

Data analysts in Nashville work across diverse industries, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and entertainment—sectors well-represented in the region’s economy. The role typically involves data collection, cleaning, visualization, and interpretation to support business decision-making. Entry-level positions may focus on data preparation and basic reporting, while experienced analysts often lead strategic analytics initiatives and mentor junior team members.

Cost of Living Context

Nashville’s cost of living is an important factor when evaluating the $123,580 salary. While specific median rent data for Nashville is not available in the current dataset, the city has experienced significant growth in recent years, with housing costs rising faster than the national average.

For context, data analysts should consider:

• Housing affordability: Nashville’s real estate market has become increasingly competitive, particularly in central neighborhoods and suburbs like Brentwood and Franklin.
• Tax implications: Tennessee has no state income tax, which effectively increases take-home pay compared to many other states. This is a significant financial advantage for Nashville-based data analysts.
• Cost-adjusted comparison: The $123,580 Nashville salary, when adjusted for local cost of living relative to the national average, provides substantial purchasing power, especially when factoring in the absence of state income tax.

The lack of state income tax means a data analyst earning $123,580 in Nashville retains more of their gross income than a counterpart in states with income tax, making the effective compensation more attractive than the raw number suggests.

Job Outlook for Data Analysts

The data analyst profession continues to experience strong demand nationwide. Key factors driving growth include:

• Digital transformation: Organizations across all sectors are investing in data infrastructure and analytics capabilities.
• AI and automation: While automation affects some routine data tasks, demand for skilled analysts who can interpret complex datasets and communicate insights to stakeholders remains robust.
• Remote work flexibility: Many data analyst positions offer remote or hybrid arrangements, expanding the talent pool for Nashville employers and increasing opportunities for Nashville residents to work for companies nationwide.

Data analysts typically require a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, economics, or a related field. Many professionals supplement formal education with certifications in tools like SQL, Tableau, Power BI, or Python. Some roles accept candidates with strong analytical skills and relevant certifications, even without a four-year degree.

Nearby Cities and Metro Comparison

The Nashville Metropolitan Statistical Area includes several notable employment centers:

• Franklin: A wealthy suburb south of Nashville with growing corporate headquarters
• Brentwood: Home to numerous healthcare and insurance companies
• Murfreesboro: Home to Middle Tennessee State University and emerging tech sector
• Hendersonville: Residential community with commute-friendly access to Nashville job centers

Data analysts considering relocation within the metro area should note that salary variations exist by specific location and industry concentration. Franklin and Brentwood, with higher concentrations of corporate headquarters, may offer slightly different compensation than central Nashville, though comprehensive salary breakdowns by these specific cities are not available in current BLS data.

FAQ

What is the starting salary for a data analyst in Nashville?

Entry-level data analyst positions in Nashville typically start below the $123,580 mean, generally in the range of $65,000–$85,000 annually. Actual starting salaries depend on educational background, relevant certifications, and the hiring company’s industry and size. Candidates with internship experience, portfolio projects, or relevant certifications (SQL, Tableau) often command higher starting offers.

How does Nashville’s data analyst salary compare to other major cities?

Nashville’s $123,580 average is competitive for a mid-sized metro area. Major tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle typically offer higher absolute salaries (often $140,000–$160,000+), but Nashville’s lower cost of living—particularly the absence of state income tax—narrows the real purchasing power gap. For cost-of-living adjusted income, Nashville is an attractive option for data analysts seeking financial stability without relocating to expensive coastal cities.

Is it worth relocating to Nashville for a data analyst job?

Nashville presents a compelling case for relocation. The $123,580 average salary, combined with no state income tax, strong job market growth, and lower housing costs compared to major tech hubs, creates an attractive financial picture. Additionally, Nashville’s growing tech ecosystem, established healthcare and finance sectors, and quality of life factors (music, culture, outdoor recreation) make it appealing for professionals seeking to balance career growth with lifestyle considerations.

What skills are most in-demand for data analysts in Nashville?

While specific Nashville job posting data is not available in this analysis, national trends indicate strong demand for: SQL and database querying, Python or R programming, data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI), Excel expertise, and business intelligence platforms. Data analysts who combine technical skills with strong communication abilities—the capacity to translate complex findings into actionable business insights—command premium compensation.

Do data analyst salaries in Nashville vary by industry?

Yes, though specific industry breakdowns for Nashville are not provided in current BLS data. Nationally, data analysts in healthcare, finance, and technology typically earn above-average compensation, while retail and hospitality sectors generally pay less. Nashville’s significant healthcare sector (Vanderbilt, HCA Healthcare) and growing financial services presence likely create well-compensated opportunities in these fields.

What certifications can increase a data analyst’s salary in Nashville?

Professional certifications in high-demand tools and methodologies—such as Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate, Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate, Tableau Desktop Specialist, or AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner—often lead to higher starting salaries and faster advancement. Advanced certifications in machine learning or specialized platforms can command 10–20% salary premiums over baseline positions.

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Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, 2024 (SOC code 15-2051, Nashville MSA 34980). This article is informational and based on publicly available wage data. Actual compensation varies by employer, experience, education, and specific job responsibilities. Last updated: April 10, 2026.