SQL Salary — 2026
3 occupations list SQL as a core skill. The highest-paying role reaches $119,800/year national median. Click any occupation to see city-by-city salary data across 30 US metros.
Data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS · 2026
| Occupation | Category | National Median |
|---|---|---|
Top PayData Scientist Data scientists analyze complex datasets to extract actionable insights and build predictive models. | Technology | $119,800 |
Database administrators manage and maintain database systems, ensuring data integrity, performance, and availability. | Technology | $89,167 |
Business analysts identify business needs, analyze data, and recommend solutions to improve processes and systems. | Business | $86,667 |
Related Skills in These Occupations
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs require SQL?
3 occupations list SQL as a core skill, including Data Scientist, Database Administrator, Business Analyst. Salary data is available for each across 30 US metro areas.
What is the highest salary for SQL jobs?
Among occupations requiring SQL, Data Scientist has the highest national median salary at $119,800 per year, based on BLS OEWS 2026 data.
Is SQL a high-paying skill in 2026?
Yes. The highest-paying occupation requiring SQL reaches $119,800/year national median. Actual pay varies by city, experience, and employer.