Data Analyst in Jackson, MS

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Data Analysts considering Jackson, Mississippi.

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

As a local, I can tell you that the data job market in Jackson is surprisingly solid for the cost of living. You won't find Silicon Valley salaries, but your paycheck will go much further here. The median salary for a Data Analyst in Jackson is $81,034/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $38.96/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $83,360/year, but the difference is negligible when you factor in our cost of living.

The metro area has 287 current openings for Data Analysts, and the 10-year job growth projection is a healthy 36%. This growth is driven by the healthcare sector, insurance companies, and the state government's increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making.

To give you a clearer picture of the earning potential based on your experience, here’s a breakdown:

Experience Level	Estimated Salary Range	Typical Role in Jackson
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$55,000 - $68,000	Junior Data Analyst, Reporting Specialist
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$70,000 - $88,000	Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$90,000 - $115,000	Senior Data Analyst, Analytics Manager
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$120,000+	Director of Analytics, Lead Data Scientist

When you compare Jackson to other Mississippi cities, it holds its own. While the Gulf Coast (Biloxi/Gulfport) may have similar salaries for analysts in the gaming and hospitality industries, and Starkville has Mississippi State University driving tech demand, Jackson's advantage is the sheer volume of stable employers in healthcare, finance, and government. Jackson offers a wider variety of sectors to apply your skills, which can lead to a more resilient career path.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. Many Jackson employers, especially in healthcare and state government, offer robust benefits packages. A slightly lower base salary can be offset by excellent health insurance, a strong state retirement system (PERS), and generous paid time off. Always calculate the total compensation.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about what $81,034/year means for your monthly budget. After federal taxes, state income tax (which is a flat 5% in Mississippi), and FICA, a single filer can expect to take home approximately $5,200 - $5,400 per month. This is a conservative estimate, but it gives us a solid baseline.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Jackson is $997/month. Our Cost of Living Index is 90.7 (US avg = 100), meaning everything from groceries to utilities is about 10% cheaper than the national average.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a Data Analyst earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$5,300	After taxes & deductions
Rent (1BR)	$997	Average for the metro area
Utilities	$180	Electricity, water, internet (Jackson summer AC bills are real)
Groceries	$350	Comparable to national averages
Car Payment & Insurance	$500	Essential in Jackson; limited public transit
Health Insurance	$250	Varies by employer; state employees often pay less
Retirement Savings	$500	6-10% of pre-tax income is a good target
Discretionary/Entertainment	$1,523	Left for dining out, hobbies, travel, or savings

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in the Jackson metro is around $210,000. With a 20% down payment ($42,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would have a monthly payment of roughly $1,100 - $1,200 (including taxes and insurance). This is very manageable on the median salary, especially if you have a partner or roommate. Many professionals in their late 20s and 30s are buying homes in suburbs like Brandon or flowood.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

Jackson's job market is anchored by a few key industries. You won't find a FAANG headquarters here, but you'll find stable, data-hungry organizations that offer great work-life balance.

1. University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC): As the state's only academic medical center, UMMC is a massive employer. They need analysts for patient outcomes, operational efficiency, and clinical research. Hiring is consistent, and the benefits are top-tier.
2. Trustmark National Bank: A major regional bank headquartered in Jackson. Their data teams focus on risk assessment, customer analytics, and fraud detection. They have a modern tech stack and are actively building out their data capabilities.
3. Mississippi State Government: The state employs a significant number of data analysts across agencies like the Department of Revenue, the Department of Employment Security (MDES), and the Department of Health. Jobs are listed on the MS State Personnel Board website. Salaries are public, and the PERS retirement system is a huge draw.
4. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi: The state's largest health insurer. Their data analysts work on claims processing, provider performance, and member risk stratification. It's a corporate environment with clear career ladders.
5. EastGroup Properties (Headquarters in Jackson): A REIT focused on industrial properties. Their data analysts support property management, market analysis, and investment decisions. A great niche for analysts interested in commercial real estate.
6. C Spire: A regional telecommunications and fiber internet company headquartered in Ridgeland (part of the Jackson metro). They need analysts for network performance, customer service optimization, and marketing campaigns.
7. St. Dominic Hospital / Jackson Medical Center: Part of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. Like UMMC, these hospitals require analysts for everything from supply chain logistics to patient scheduling and financial reporting.

Hiring Trends: There is a clear shift towards cloud-based analytics (AWS, Azure) and more sophisticated tools like Power BI and Tableau. Employers are prioritizing candidates who can not only query data but also visualize and tell a story with it. The move from traditional SQL reporting to predictive modeling is happening, but slowly.

Getting Licensed in MS

This is a straightforward process, as Mississippi does not have a state-specific license required to practice as a Data Analyst. The field is governed by general professional standards and employer requirements.

However, here are the key steps and considerations to get started:

1. Education: A bachelor's degree is the standard entry requirement. Degrees in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, or Business with a data focus are all acceptable. Jackson State University (JSU) and Millsaps College offer strong programs in these areas.
2. Certifications (Highly Recommended): While not state-mandated, professional certifications significantly boost your credibility and earning potential. The most valued are:
   • Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate (Coursera): Great for entry-level.
   • Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate: Extremely relevant for the many Jackson employers using the Microsoft suite.
   • Tableau Desktop Specialist: For roles focused on visualization.
   • Certified Analytics Professional (CAP): For more advanced, senior-level roles.
3. Timeline & Cost:
   • If you have a relevant bachelor's degree: You can start applying immediately. Budget $0 - $500 for certification study materials and exam fees.
   • If you're changing careers: Consider a post-baccalaureate certificate or a master's program. JSU offers a Master of Science in Data Science. A full master's degree will take 1-2 years and cost $15,000 - $30,000, but it can fast-track you to a higher starting salary.
   • Getting Started: Create a portfolio on GitHub with 3-5 projects. Use public datasets (like from the Mississippi State Department of Health or US Census) to demonstrate your skills. This portfolio is your most important "license" to practice.

Insider Tip: Join the local Mississippi Statistical Association or attend meetups at the Mississippi Arts Center or local co-working spaces. Networking in Jackson is key, and many jobs are filled through personal connections before they're ever posted online.

Best Neighborhoods for Data Analysts

Where you live in Jackson will define your daily life. The metro area is spread out, so commute and lifestyle are crucial considerations.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Lifestyle	Avg. 1BR Rent	Commute to Downtown
Belhaven	Historic, walkable, artsy. Full of cafes, bookstores, and young professionals. Close to JSU and downtown.	$1,100 - $1,400	5-10 minutes
Fondren	Medical district hub. Very walkable, trendy restaurants, and a youthful energy due to UMMC.	$1,050 - $1,300	10 minutes
Brandon	Suburban family haven. Excellent schools, newer housing, and big-box shopping. A 20-25 minute commute is standard.	$950 - $1,200	20-25 minutes
Flowood	"The City of Progress." Known for great parks, restaurants, and the Renaissance at Flowood shopping center. Corporate feel.	$975 - $1,250	15-20 minutes
Ridgeland	North of the metro. Upscale, with the Natchez Trace Parkway and the Outlets. Home to many corporate offices (like C Spire).	$1,100 - $1,500	20-30 minutes

Personal Insight: If you're young and want to be in the heart of the action, Fondren is unbeatable. You can walk to dinner after work. If you're looking to buy a home and start a family, Brandon offers the most value for your money and the best school districts. Ridgeland is ideal if you land a job with one of the corporate headquarters there, as you can minimize your commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Jackson's data scene is mature but not as hyper-competitive as larger tech hubs, which can be a significant advantage for focused career growth.

• Specialty Premiums: Specialists in healthcare analytics (particularly at UMMC or health systems) and financial/actuarial analytics (at Trustmark or insurance companies) command the highest premiums, often earning 15-20% above the median. Expertise in geospatial analysis is also valued due to Mississippi's focus on agriculture and logistics.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Data Analyst to Senior Data Analyst, then to a managerial role (Analytics Manager, Business Intelligence Manager). A common pivot is into Data Engineering or Data Science, as companies seek to build more robust data infrastructure. Another path is moving into a specific business function (like Marketing or Operations) as their "go-to" data expert.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 36% job growth, the outlook is strong. The key will be adapting to new technologies. Analysts who master cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), learn Python for automation and advanced analysis, and develop strong communication skills will be in the driver's seat. Jackson's market is likely to see more remote work opportunities, allowing local analysts to tap into national salary trends while enjoying the low cost of living.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $81,034 salary goes far, enabling home ownership and savings.	Hot, Humid Summers: The weather from June to September is intense and can limit outdoor activities.
Stable Job Market: Anchor employers in healthcare, government, and finance provide recession-resistant jobs.	Limited Public Transit: Owning a car is a necessity, adding to your monthly expenses.
Strong Community: The data community is supportive and not cutthroat. Networking is easier.	Cultural & Entertainment Options: While improving, the arts and dining scene is smaller than in major metros.
Slower Pace of Life: Less stress and traffic compared to larger cities. Great for work-life balance.	Population Decline: The metro area's population is relatively flat, which can mean fewer new company startups.
Gateway to the Outdoors: Proximity to the Natchez Trace, Ross Barnett Reservoir, and state parks.	Political Climate: State politics can be divisive and impact public sector job funding.

Final Recommendation: Jackson is an excellent choice for Data Analysts who prioritize financial stability, career longevity, and a manageable cost of living over the frenetic energy of a coastal tech hub. It's ideal for professionals who want to own a home, build a family, and find a sustainable career without the constant pressure of a high-stakes market. If you're an early-career analyst looking for a place to build a strong foundation without being overwhelmed, Jackson is a hidden gem.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to be a Data Analyst in Jackson?
Yes, absolutely. Jackson's public transportation system (JTRAN) is limited and not reliable for most commutes. The city is spread out, and most employers are in suburban office parks, not downtown cores. Factor a car payment and insurance into your budget from day one.

2. How competitive is the job market for entry-level analysts?
It's moderately competitive. With 287 openings, there are jobs, but many require 1-3 years of experience. To stand out, you need a sharp portfolio (GitHub, Tableau Public) and certifications. Consider applying for roles like "Reporting Analyst" or "Business Analyst" at state agencies or hospitals, as they often have entry-level pathways.

3. Is it possible to work remotely for a company outside Mississippi while living in Jackson?
Yes, this is a growing trend. Your $81,034 local salary can go even further if you secure a remote role with a national company paying coastal wages. However, ensure you understand the company's policy on hiring in Mississippi and any potential tax implications. Jackson's low cost of living makes you a very attractive candidate for remote positions.

4. What's the best way to network in Jackson's data scene?
Start with the Mississippi Statistical Association for formal events. Check platforms like Meetup.com for "Data Science" or "Python" groups, which often meet at places like the District at Eastover or local libraries. Also, don't underestimate the power of LinkedIn—many Jackson employers actively recruit there. Connect with data leaders at UMMC, Trustmark, and the state government.

5. How does the state government hiring process work?
It's structured and public. All state jobs are posted on the MS State Personnel Board website (www.mspb.ms.gov). You must create an account and apply online. The process can be slow, often taking 2-3 months from posting to offer. Be patient and persistent. Tailor your resume to the specific job classification (e.g., "Management Analyst" or "Information Technology Specialist") as the system is keyword-driven.