Data Analyst
$83,333
avg. annual salary
Web Developer
pays more on average
Web Developer
$91,458
avg. annual salary
Choosing between a career as a Data Analyst or a Web Developer can be challenging, especially when considering potential earnings and career trajectories. Both roles are critical in today’s technology-driven job market, but they offer different responsibilities, skill sets, and salary ranges. Data Analysts focus on transforming data into actionable insights to drive business decisions, while Web Developers create and maintain websites and applications to enhance user experiences. Understanding the salary landscape for each position can help you make an informed choice about your career path. In this guide, we'll delve into the average salaries for Data Analysts and Web Developers, examine their benefits, and provide insight into the career paths associated with each role.
Salary by Experience Level
starting salary
starting salary
avg. difference (10%)
Average Salary Overview
As of 2025, the average salary for a Data Analyst is approximately $77,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting around $55,000 and more experienced professionals earning up to $110,000. In comparison, Web Developers see an average salary of about $85,000 annually, with entry-level salaries around $60,000 and senior positions potentially reaching $120,000.
Factors such as location, skill set, and industry influence these figures significantly.
Salary Comparison by Experience Level
For clarity, here is a breakdown of salaries based on experience:
Data Analyst:
- •Entry Level: $55,000 - $65,000
- •Mid Level: $75,000 - $90,000
- •Senior Level: $100,000 - $110,000
Web Developer:
- •Entry Level: $60,000 - $70,000
- •Mid Level: $80,000 - $95,000
- •Senior Level: $110,000 - $120,000
This comparison shows that Web Developers generally earn more at entry and mid-level positions.
Benefits and Perks
Both Data Analysts and Web Developers typically enjoy a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible working arrangements. Additionally, many tech companies offer perks such as remote work options, continuing education allowances, and wellness programs.
However, Web Developers may have more opportunities for freelance work or contracting, allowing them greater flexibility in their schedules.
Career Paths and Opportunities
The career trajectories for Data Analysts and Web Developers can be quite different. Data Analysts may transition into roles such as Data Scientist or Business Intelligence Analyst, while Web Developers often advance into positions like Software Engineer or Technical Lead.
Each path offers unique challenges and opportunities for advancement, with Data Science being a rapidly growing field in demand.
Conclusion
In summary, while both Data Analysts and Web Developers offer strong salaries and career prospects, your choice should align with your personal interests and long-term goals. Assessing the salary differences, benefits, and potential career advancements for each role can guide you in making a more informed decision.
Detailed salary comparison (2025)
Overview
- •Entry-level: Data analyst $55k–$70k; Web developer $50k–$75k. For example, a junior analyst in Chicago often starts near $60k, while a junior front-end dev in Austin may start near $65k.
- •Median: Data analysts typically earn $70k–$95k; Web developers $70k–$110k depending on stack (React/Node roles trend higher).
- •Senior: Senior analysts earn $95k–$140k; Senior web developers $110k–$160k, with full-stack and cloud-focused devs at the top.
Other factors
- •Location premium: SF/NY salaries can be 15%–40% higher. Contract rates: analysts $40–$80/hr; devs $50–$120/hr. Bonuses/equity add 5%–20% total comp in tech firms.
Actionable takeaway: Match role level and location to salary ranges before negotiating.
Key factors to weigh when comparing roles
Skills and specialization
- •Data analyst: SQL, Python, Excel, Tableau/Power BI. Analysts who build ML pipelines or automate ETL can increase pay 10%–25%.
- •Web developer: JavaScript, React/Vue, Node, CSS, plus cloud/Docker for higher pay.
Industry and location
- •Finance and ad tech often pay 20%–40% above average. Remote roles may pay 0%–20% less depending on company policy.
Experience and credentials
- •Certifications (Google Data Analytics, AWS, Certified Scrum) can raise interview callbacks by 10%–30%.
Career trajectory
- •Analysts often move into data science or analytics management; developers move to senior engineer, engineering manager, or product roles.
Actionable takeaway: Choose the role that matches skills you can grow quickly, then target industries and locations that pay a premium.