Data Analyst
$86,667
avg. annual salary
Backend Developer
pays more on average
Backend Developer
$91,487
avg. annual salary
As technology continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals in data analysis and backend development remains high. Both Data Analysts and Backend Developers play crucial roles in helping companies leverage data and build robust software solutions. Understanding the differences in salary, benefits, and career trajectories between these two professions can help you make informed decisions about your career path. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the average salaries for Data Analysts and Backend Developers, the skills required for each role, and the potential for growth within these careers. Whether you’re considering a pivot into tech or evaluating your current position, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you navigate your future in these dynamic fields.
Salary by Experience Level
starting salary
starting salary
avg. difference (6%)
Salary Overview
In 2025, the average salary for a Data Analyst is projected to be $85,000, while Backend Developers can expect an average of $100,000. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry.
Generally, larger corporations tend to offer higher salaries compared to startups or smaller companies.
Salary by Experience Level
Entry-level Data Analysts can earn between $60,000 - $75,000, while Mid-level positions typically offer $80,000 - $95,000. Senior Data Analysts may reach up to $120,000.
For Backend Developers, entry-level salaries range from $70,000 - $85,000, Mid-level can earn $90,000 - $110,000, and Senior Developers can achieve salaries up to $130,000.
Benefits & Perks
Both Data Analysts and Backend Developers enjoy a range of benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible work hours. However, Backend Developers might have additional perks like remote work options and bonuses tied to project completions, reflecting their role's critical impact on product delivery.
Career Path & Growth Opportunities
Data Analysts can progress to roles such as Data Scientist or Business Intelligence Analyst, focusing on machine learning and complex data analysis. Backend Developers can advance to positions like Software Architect or DevOps Engineer, emphasizing software design and infrastructure management.
Both fields are projected to grow, with demand expected to rise by 20% in the coming years.
Detailed comparison: pay by level and role drivers
Entry-level (0–2 years): Data analysts typically earn about $55,000–$75,000, while backend developers start around $75,000–$95,000. Mid-level (3–5 years): Analysts move to $75,000–$95,000; backend devs reach $95,000–$130,000.
Senior (5+ years): Senior analysts with domain expertise or ML skills earn $95,000–$130,000; senior backend developers often command $130,000–$180,000+. Overall, backend roles pay roughly 25–40% more on median.
Two practical drivers: tech stack and measurable impact. For example, a backend engineer fluent in Go/Java at a fintech firm can add $15k–$40k vs.
the same experience using lower-demand tech. Contractors show a similar gap: analyst rates ~$30–$70/hr vs.
backend ~$60–$120/hr. Takeaway: target high-demand stacks or measurable business impact to close the gap.
Factors to consider when comparing salaries
Location and cost of living: San Francisco and NYC often pay 20–40% above national averages; midwest markets pay less. Industry matters: finance and adtech typically offer +10–30% versus education or non-profit.
Skill set and tools: Python/SQL analytics with Tableau pays differently than Spark/ML; backend skills in Java, Go, Kubernetes, and cloud (AWS/GCP) raise pay by $10k–$30k on average. Experience and impact: switching jobs can yield a 10–20% raise; documented project ROI (e.
g. , $500k saved) raises negotiation power.
Work arrangement and contract rates: remote roles sometimes cut location premiums; contracting can double hourly income but lacks benefits. Actionable steps: research local ranges, upskill in high-demand tooling, and quantify 2–3 past projects for salary talks.