Data Engineer Salary in Arkansas
The median data engineer salary in Arkansas is $97,500 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Data Engineer salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $97,500 per year, data engineers in Arkansas earn $27,500 less than the national median of $125,000.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $97,500 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $116,071 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $60,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $148,200 — a $87,360 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $102,500.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Arkansas and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level data engineer earns around $62,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $140,400 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,000 |
| Median (50th) | $97,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $148,200 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for data engineers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Data Engineer in Arkansas
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,900 over your career trajectory.
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