Is “Data Analyst” a Good Career Choice?
Let’s face it:
There’s a plethora of job titles and career options in the world, and trying to decide which one is right for you can be nearly impossible…
Whether you’re searching for your first professional role or preparing for an industry shift, if you have a passion for data you may find yourself wondering: “Is a career as a data analyst the right fit for me?”
There are a few important considerations when exploring new opportunities, so let’s take a look at some of the big ones!
Pay
Between inflation and other economic factors, we are all painfully aware of how high the cost of living is in the United States. Since you’d probably like to pay your bills and have a little left over, you may be wondering: “How much does a data analyst make?”
As of August 11, 2023, Zip Recruiter reported that the average data analyst salary in the U.S. is $80,429 (or an hourly wage of $39). While it’s dependent on the specific role and company, the average is very promising — and there are often other benefits to factor into your decision!
Longevity & Demand
With the growth of AI, there has been a lot of hot debate about whether or not certain career options will continue to thrive. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, opportunities for data roles will continue to grow 36% from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average occupational growth rate of 5%! (Note: The Bureau of Labor Statistics lumps data careers under the “data scientist” umbrella.)
As we’ve seen, AI is absolutely a disruptive technology and will likely help to evolve the industry — but the need for a person to provide that human element to analysis won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
Accessibility
If you’re looking for a career with the best chance of a smooth transition, data analytics could be a great option!
There are many transferable skills from a diverse array of industries that will help pave your way to a data career. If you work in healthcare, marketing, finance, sales, or education, then you definitely have already been introduced to some of the basic concepts you will need for your career in analytics!
Another great thing about data analytics? There are training opportunities for every level, from beginner to advanced.
Whether you’re a college student (or recent grad), career switcher, or someone looking to accelerate an already existing career in the industry, the availability of customized learning paths, data analyst bootcamps, and top-tier online courses make it possible for your training to meet you where you’re at and close the gap to where you’d like to be.
Flexibility & Growth Potential
Two final things you may want to think about when choosing a career: how flexible is the schedule and are there opportunities for growth?
One trend that has become more and more visible in the last few years is the opportunity to work remotely. Remote work is highly valued for many reasons: better work/life balance, convenience, and often the option for flexible scheduling that isn’t available for those with an office job.
If you have a family, especially if you have younger children, then remote work can make it possible for you to be more present when it matters most…and analytics is a great option if that’s a priority for you!
As for growth potential: data careers leave a lot of room for upward mobility, with the availability of senior roles as well as internal (or external!) demand for progression — especially as you continue to upskill and grow your knowledge!
Final Thoughts
So, is becoming a data analyst a good career choice?
The short answer: it really depends!
If you’re looking for a career that…
- Pays well
- Has long-term demand
- Has approachable and accessible training opportunities
- Comes with flexibility and future growth
…then data analytics sounds like the perfect fit.
So, what are you waiting for?!
If you liked this, we’d love for you to subscribe to our publication. Drop us a comment letting us know what you’d like to see next!
You can also submit your own writing for us to promote, so don’t be shy if you would like to become a contributor.
Happy learning!
