Dallas vs McAllen: Data Analyst Salary (2026)
Compare data analyst salaries between Dallas, TX and McAllen, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | McAllen, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,423▲ | $61,270 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.07▲ | $29.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $43,591▲ | $38,990 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,521▲ | $45,122 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,128▲ | $81,438 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $115,908▲ | $95,179 |
| Total Employed | 10,120▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Dallas, TX offers better overall compensation for data analysts, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to McAllen.
The salary gap between Dallas and McAllen is $24,153 (39.42%). Dallas's median is +6.26% compared to the US national median of $80,394.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dallas spans $72,317,McAllen spans $56,189. Dallas has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Dallas ($82,863 effective) pays 16.17% more than McAllen ($71,331 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,423/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($115,908)
- ✓Larger job market (10,120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $82,863)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose McAllen if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, data analyst salaries in Dallas grew -20.3% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -19.8% growth in McAllen over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$102,530 (2021) → $81,760 (2025)
McAllen, TX
$73,160 (2022) → $58,643 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
McAllen, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays data analysts more: Dallas or McAllen?
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Written by Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience in data analysis. She specializes in business intelligence and works at a tech consulting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.48% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, MA, Certified Data Analyst, a licensed data analyst with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov