How much do data analysts make in the UK?

How much do data analysts make in the UK?

Data analysis is one of the UK’s most in-demand career paths. With organisations across every sector relying on data to shape strategy, improve services and drive performance, these professionals play a crucial role in turning raw information into valuable insights that support smarter decision-making. 

The role offers strong earning potential, challenging and interesting responsibilities and the chance to work with some of the UK’s biggest organisations across both the public and private sectors. As such, it’s a career well worth considering for those with an analytical mindset and an interest in solving problems. 

What do data analysts do?

Data analysts help organisations make sense of the information they collect. Their core purpose is to examine data, identify trends and extract insights that support better decision-making. These professionals turn complex, raw datasets into clear, meaningful outputs that can guide everything from day-to-day operations to long-term strategy.

Typical responsibilities include gathering and cleaning data, building reports and dashboards, tracking key performance indicators and using tools like SQL, Excel or Python to analyse trends. Analysts may also support forecasting, customer profiling or operational planning depending on the sector.

While some roles focus on broader business intelligence to direct long-term strategy, data analysts are often distinguished by their hands-on work in examining structured data to produce evidence-based insights. This may be used to assess the performance of campaigns, help understand customers better or solve challenges within a business.

How much do data analysts make in the UK?

Data analysts in the UK are well-compensated for their technical expertise and growing importance in data-driven decision-making. Salaries vary depending on experience, location and sector, but typically, professionals can expect to see their earnings fall into the below ranges, depending on experience level:

• Entry-level data analysts: These individuals usually earn between £29,000 and £35,000 per year, depending on qualifications and location, according to Glassdoor. 
• Mid-level data analysts: Professionals with several years of experience or specialisation in particular tools and techniques can expect to earn around £36,000 to £45,000, with the national average sitting at approximately £36,289 annually.
• Senior data analysts and lead roles: Those in senior or supervisory positions typically earn £50,000 to £60,000 or more, particularly in large organisations or technical industries. In some cases, salaries may exceed this level where analysts manage teams or oversee strategic analytics projects.
  

In addition, many data analysts receive performance-related bonuses, profit-sharing or benefits such as professional development support, depending on sector and employer. On average, Glassdoor notes that additional pay is approximately £2,440 per year.

These figures represent typical earnings across the UK, but salaries can rise significantly for professionals who work in high-demand regions such as London or specialise in data-intensive sectors like finance, defence or technology. With experience, certification and continued upskilling, many data analysts move into higher-paying strategic, managerial or consultancy positions.

What factors affect data analyst salaries?

Several factors can influence how much a data analyst earns in the UK, often creating a wide range between entry-level and senior roles. Key influences include:

• Location: Salaries are typically highest in London and the south-east. For example, Glassdoor shows the average base pay for data analysts in London is £41,885 annually. However, these increases may be offset by higher costs of living in the region.
• Sector: Industries such as finance, technology and consultancy have the highest demand for skilled data analysts and often offer higher earning potential to attract the best talent. For instance, finance data analysts average £40,197 annually, while tech-sector roles can exceed £50,000.
• Experience: More experienced analysts can enhance their earnings by progressing into specialist or leadership roles.
• Technical expertise: Skills in SQL, Python, R, Power BI or machine learning tools are highly valued and often linked to higher pay.
• Security clearance: Analysts working in government, defence or policing in roles that require active security clearance are typically paid more due to the complexity and sensitivity of the work.
  

How to boost your earning potential as a data analyst

While experience plays a key role in salary growth, there are several strategic ways data analysts can improve their earning potential. Employers increasingly seek candidates with advanced technical skills, commercial awareness and the ability to translate complex findings into actionable insights. 

By investing in continuous development and aligning your career with high-demand areas, you can significantly increase your value in the job market. Here are some practical steps to help maximise your earning potential:

• Gain proficiency in in-demand tools and languages such as Python, R, SQL, Power BI or Tableau.
• Earn industry-recognised certifications.
• Build a strong portfolio demonstrating the real-world impact of your work.
• Seek roles in high-paying sectors such as finance, technology or consulting.
• Pursue opportunities in London or other major hubs where salaries are typically higher.
• Consider applying for roles requiring security clearance to access specialist, higher-paid positions.

Check out SecurityClearedJobs.com today for the latest data analysts in highly sensitive sectors.