How much does a Database Engineer make?
Database Engineers play a key role in managing and organizing data. They earn a good salary for their work. The average yearly salary for a Database Engineer is around $130,649. This means that many Database Engineers make more than this amount each year.
The salary for Database Engineers can vary based on experience and skills. Some earn less than $70,000, while others make over $200,000. Here is a look at the salary distribution:
- 2.70% earn less than $70,000
- 7.22% earn between $70,000 and $82,500
- 13.91% earn between $82,500 and $95,000
- 12.72% earn between $95,000 and $107,500
- 18.33% earn between $107,500 and $120,000
- 9.92% earn between $120,000 and $132,500
- 10.78% earn between $132,500 and $145,000
- 8.52% earn between $145,000 and $157,500
- 5.28% earn between $157,500 and $170,000
- 2.48% earn between $170,000 and $182,500
- 3.13% earn over $182,500
What are the highest paying cities for a Database Engineer?

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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $154,989
In Austin, database experts thrive in a tech-driven environment. Companies like Dell and IBM offer exciting opportunities. The city's vibrant culture enhances the professional experience.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $146,298
San Diego boasts a strong tech scene with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms. Database professionals here enjoy a mix of innovation and stability. The city's beautiful weather adds to the appeal.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $143,538
Boston is a hub for tech and education. Companies like Fidelity and State Street attract skilled database professionals. The city's rich history and culture provide a unique backdrop for work.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $142,484
Colorado Springs offers a blend of tech and outdoor activities. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman need database experts. The scenic beauty and outdoor lifestyle make it a desirable place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $141,386
Washington, DC, is a political and tech hub. Government agencies and companies like Amazon and Microsoft offer many roles. The city's historical sites and cultural events enrich the professional experience.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $138,639
Chicago is a major city with a strong tech presence. Companies like Boeing and Accenture need database talent. The city's vibrant arts scene and sports culture add to the appeal.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $135,614
Atlanta is a growing tech center with companies like Delta and Coca-Cola. Database professionals here enjoy a mix of industry and innovation. The city's warm climate and diverse culture enhance the experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $135,424
Seattle is a tech powerhouse with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Database experts here work in a dynamic and innovative environment. The city's natural beauty and outdoor activities make it a great place to live and work.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $132,753
Charlotte is a financial and tech hub with companies like Bank of America and Wells Fargo. Database professionals here enjoy a mix of industry and innovation. The city's growing culture scene adds to the appeal.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $129,884
San Antonio offers a growing tech scene with companies like AT&T and Rackspace. Database experts here enjoy a mix of industry and innovation. The city's rich culture and history provide a unique backdrop for work.
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What are the best companies a Database Engineer can work for?

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GeoLogics Corporation
Average Salary: $164,114
GeoLogics Corporation offers rewarding Database Engineer jobs. They focus on geospatial data management. Their offices are in Washington, D.C., and Austin, Texas. They value skilled engineers who can handle complex data systems.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $155,789
Piper Companies provides excellent opportunities for Database Engineers. They work on financial data systems. Locations include New York City and San Francisco. They seek professionals who can ensure data integrity and security.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $152,429
Wells Fargo offers competitive salaries for Database Engineers. They manage large-scale financial databases. Offices are in Charlotte, North Carolina, and San Francisco, California. They need experts who can optimize database performance.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $141,303
Northrop Grumman provides rewarding Database Engineer jobs. They focus on defense and aerospace data systems. Locations include Falls Church, Virginia, and El Segundo, California. They seek skilled engineers for critical data management tasks.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $136,046
Amazon Web Services offers top-tier Database Engineer jobs. They manage cloud-based data solutions. Locations include Seattle, Washington, and Dublin, Ireland. They need professionals who can innovate and scale database systems.
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CACI International
Average Salary: $134,668
CACI International provides excellent Database Engineer jobs. They focus on government data systems. Locations include Arlington, Virginia, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. They seek skilled engineers for secure and efficient data management.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $130,804
SAIC offers rewarding Database Engineer jobs. They work on defense and intelligence data systems. Locations include McLean, Virginia, and San Diego, California. They need professionals who can handle sensitive data with care.
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Palco
Average Salary: $96,156
Palco provides Database Engineer jobs with a focus on data analytics. Locations include San Francisco, California. They seek skilled engineers who can analyze and interpret complex data for business insights.
How to earn more as a Database Engineer?
A Database Engineer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Building a strong foundation in database management systems is crucial. This includes mastering SQL, understanding NoSQL databases, and learning how to optimize database performance. These skills make a Database Engineer more valuable to potential employers.
Gaining experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud is another way to boost earnings. Many companies are moving to cloud-based solutions, and having this expertise can set a Database Engineer apart. Certifications in these platforms can also lead to higher-paying positions. Networking with other professionals and staying updated with industry trends will help in finding better job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional groups, and participating in online forums can provide valuable connections and insights.
Specializing in a niche area can also lead to higher earnings. This could mean focusing on big data, data warehousing, or cybersecurity within databases. Having a specific area of expertise can make a Database Engineer more attractive to employers looking for specialized skills. Continuous learning and professional development are essential for career growth. Taking advanced courses, attending workshops, and earning additional certifications can open up higher-paying roles.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings as a Database Engineer:
- Master database management systems
- Gain experience with cloud platforms
- Specialize in a niche area
- Network with other professionals
- Continuously learn and develop skills



