Business Analyst Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$88,000
national median salary
$68,000 to $115,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$120,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$92,000
Chicago, IL
Lowest Paying
$71,000
Charleston, WV
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Business Analyst salary in the United States is $88,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $68,000 at the 25th percentile to $115,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $120,000, while Chicago offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Technical depth separates pay tiers for business analysts.
Business Analyst salary by city
Skills that increase Business Analyst pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Business Analysts based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $12,320 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$12,320 per year
≈ +$11,440 per year
≈ +$10,560 per year
≈ +$9,680 per year
≈ +$9,680 per year
≈ +$8,800 per year
≈ +$8,800 per year
≈ +$7,920 per year
What you should know
Technical depth separates pay tiers for business analysts. Those proficient in SQL, Python, and BI tools like Tableau earn 15 to 20% more than peers focused solely on requirements gathering. Domain expertise in finance, healthcare, or supply chain commands additional premiums due to regulatory complexity.
Junior business analysts start at $58,000 to $72,000. Mid-level analysts with domain specialization earn $80,000 to $100,000. Senior business analysts reach $105,000 to $125,000, and the path forward leads to product management or analytics leadership roles paying $130,000 to $160,000.
Bonuses range from 5 to 15% of base salary, with consulting firms offering the highest variable pay. Equity is uncommon except at tech companies, where RSUs can add $5,000 to $20,000 annually.