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How much does a Systems Administrator make?

The average salary for a Systems Administrator is $97,592 per year in the US.

A Systems Administrator plays a critical role in maintaining and securing computer systems. They often work in an office environment, but some may offer remote positions. This job comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a Systems Administrator is around $97,592. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the company you work for.

Here are some details about the earnings of Systems Administrators:

  • The lowest 10% earn about $51,500.
  • The next 10% earn around $62,816.
  • The middle 20% earn between $74,133 and $85,449.
  • The next 20% earn between $96,765 and $108,081.
  • The top 20% earn more than $119,398.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Administrator?

Systems Administrators can find attractive job opportunities in several cities. Top earners typically work in Manchester, NH, where the average salary stands at $122,179. Cities like San Jose, CA, and Washington, DC, also offer high salaries, with figures reaching $117,552 and $115,105, respectively. Job seekers should look at these cities for competitive compensation packages. Places like San Francisco, CA, and Seattle, WA, are also great, with salaries near $112,000. The demand for skilled Systems Administrators in these locations ensures good earning potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Systems Administrator jobs, highlighting Manchester, NH with the highest at $122,179 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $103,801.
  1. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $122,179
    Manchester offers a friendly atmosphere with a lower cost of living. Many tech firms appreciate the talent pool available. Working here means you can enjoy a good balance of professional opportunities and a relaxed lifestyle.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Manchester, NH


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $117,552
    San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley, home to tech giants like Google and Apple. Being a systems admin here means you will have access to cutting-edge technologies and vast career opportunities. The fast-paced environment is ideal for those who thrive under pressure.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $115,105
    In Washington, DC, working as a systems admin offers a mix of government and private sector jobs. You will find prominent companies and enjoy a vibrant work culture. The city's rich history adds a unique flavor to your professional experience.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $112,848
    Seattle's tech scene is booming with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Working here means you're at the center of innovation. The city's natural beauty provides a refreshing backdrop to a dynamic work environment.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $112,076
    San Francisco is a major tech hub with companies like Salesforce and Uber. Being a systems admin here means you will be part of a high-energy workforce. The city's progressive culture and stunning landscapes make it a desirable place to live and work.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA


  6. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $109,752
    Boulder offers a laid-back environment with a strong focus on outdoor activities. Tech companies here provide a healthy work-life balance. Being a systems admin means you will enjoy both professional growth and a beautiful natural setting.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Boulder, CO


  7. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $108,360
    Colorado Springs offers a mix of tech jobs and a vibrant community. Working here means you can enjoy a lower cost of living and a strong sense of community. The city's stunning views are a great bonus for work-life balance.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  8. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $107,081
    Baltimore has a growing tech sector with companies like Under Armour. Working here means you can enjoy a lower cost of living and a rich cultural scene. The city offers a blend of historic charm and modern opportunities.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  9. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $106,627
    San Diego offers a laid-back lifestyle with a strong tech presence. Companies like Qualcomm and Dell EMC are based here. Working as a systems admin means you will enjoy beautiful weather and a relaxed work environment.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $103,801
    Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis with a diverse job market. Working here means you will have access to numerous industries and companies. The city's vibrant culture and entertainment options make it an exciting place to work.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Los Angeles, CA

What are the best companies a Systems Administrator can work for?

Praxis Engineering leads as the best-paying company for Systems Administrator jobs, offering an average salary of $211,233. Captivation Software closely follows, providing an impressive average salary of $200,000. Both companies show strong commitment to rewarding their Systems Administrators. In addition to these top earners, other notable companies include DCI Solutions, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, and BAE Systems USA. Each of these firms provides competitive salaries, ranging from $193,571 to $140,319. These opportunities highlight the potential for Systems Administrators to secure well-paying positions in reputable organizations.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Systems Administrator jobs, highlighting Praxis Engineering with the highest at $211,233 and Kaiser Permanente with the lowest at $128,390.
  1. Praxis Engineering
    Average Salary: $211,233
    Praxis Engineering offers competitive pay and benefits for Systems Administrators. They manage IT infrastructure in locations across the United States, such as New York, California, and Texas. Their work often involves ensuring network stability and security.


  2. Captivation Software
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Captivation Software provides a high salary for Systems Administrators. They work on complex software systems and are based in various states, including Florida and North Carolina. Their roles focus on maintaining and improving system performance.


  3. DCI Solutions
    Average Salary: $193,571
    DCI Solutions pays well for Systems Administrators. They operate in multiple states, such as Washington, D.C., and Virginia. Their work involves ensuring that systems run smoothly and securely for clients.


  4. Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
    Average Salary: $150,481
    The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory offers attractive salaries for Systems Administrators. They work in Maryland and California. Their tasks include managing and optimizing IT systems for research and development.


  5. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $140,319
    BAE Systems USA provides good compensation for Systems Administrators. They are based in Virginia and several other states. Their roles focus on maintaining and enhancing the company's IT infrastructure.


  6. Parsons
    Average Salary: $139,552
    Parsons offers competitive pay for Systems Administrators. They work in locations across the U.S., including California and Maryland. Their responsibilities include system administration and support services.


  7. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $137,859
    Deloitte offers attractive salaries for Systems Administrators. They operate in multiple states, such as New York and Texas. Their roles involve managing and optimizing IT systems to support business needs.


  8. Piper Companies
    Average Salary: $133,696
    Piper Companies provides good pay for Systems Administrators. They work in states like California and New York. Their tasks include system maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring network security.


  9. Belcan
    Average Salary: $129,544
    Belcan offers competitive salaries for Systems Administrators. They operate in states such as California and Virginia. Their roles focus on system administration and technical support.


  10. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $128,390
    Kaiser Permanente provides good compensation for Systems Administrators. They are based in California and other states. Their work involves managing and maintaining IT systems to support healthcare operations.

How to earn more as a Systems Administrator?

A Systems Administrator can increase earnings by gaining specific skills and certifications. Specializing in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or automation can lead to higher-paying jobs. Investing in certifications such as CompTIA, Cisco, or AWS can make a professional more attractive to employers. These credentials show a commitment to the field and a higher level of expertise.

Experience also plays a critical role in earning more. Working in larger or more complex environments can provide valuable experience. This experience can make a Systems Administrator more marketable and able to command higher salaries. Networking with other professionals in the field can open doors to better job opportunities. Attending conferences, joining professional groups, and connecting on platforms like LinkedIn can lead to new and better-paying jobs.

Additionally, taking on leadership roles can lead to higher earnings. Moving into positions such as Team Lead, IT Manager, or Director of IT can significantly increase salary. These roles often involve overseeing teams, managing projects, and making strategic decisions, which come with higher compensation. Staying updated with the latest technologies and trends in the field can also help a Systems Administrator remain competitive and earn more.

  1. Gain relevant certifications
  2. Build experience in specialized areas
  3. Network with industry professionals
  4. Take on leadership roles
  5. Stay updated with new technologies

Currently 593 Systems Administrator job openings, nationwide.

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Systems Administrator
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