How much does a Systems Administrator make?
Systems Administrators play a key role in keeping computer systems running smoothly. This job pays well for the important work it involves. The average yearly salary for a Systems Administrator is $97,227. This means most administrators earn between $73,095 and $130,834 each year. Many factors can affect this number, like experience, location, and the company you work for.
A good salary is one of the perks of being a Systems Administrator. Here are some more benefits:
- Many companies offer good benefits, such as health insurance and retirement plans.
- This job can be found in many different industries, from tech companies to healthcare.
- Continued learning and certifications can lead to higher pay and more job opportunities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Administrator?

-
Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $125,694
In Manchester, NH, IT professionals manage systems for a mix of local companies and larger firms. Job seekers can find roles in industries like healthcare and finance. The city's tech sector is growing, offering good career prospects.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Manchester, NH
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $119,554
San Jose, CA, is a tech hub with many opportunities for IT experts. Companies like Google and Intel look for skilled candidates. The city's vibrant tech scene provides a dynamic work environment.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $115,613
San Francisco, CA, offers a competitive job market for IT professionals. Major tech companies like Apple and Salesforce are based here. Working in San Francisco means being part of a fast-paced, innovative industry.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $115,294
In Washington, DC, IT roles focus on government and non-profit sectors. Companies need experts to maintain secure networks. The city offers a mix of public service and private IT jobs.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Washington, DC
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $113,667
Seattle, WA, is known for its tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. IT professionals here enjoy a collaborative work culture. The city's tech scene offers many career opportunities.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $111,358
Boulder, CO, has a growing tech industry with startups and established companies. IT roles focus on providing reliable IT solutions. The city's small-town feel and tech growth make it an attractive place to work.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Boulder, CO
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $109,104
Baltimore, MD, offers a mix of IT roles in healthcare and finance. Companies like Under Armour look for skilled IT professionals. The city's diverse job market provides various career paths.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $108,520
Colorado Springs, CO, is home to many tech companies and military installations. IT roles focus on securing networks and maintaining systems. The city's tech scene is expanding, offering new opportunities.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $106,950
San Diego, CA, has a thriving tech scene with companies like Qualcomm and Scripps. IT roles here involve managing complex systems. The city's sunny climate and tech growth make it a desirable place to work.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $104,780
Huntsville, AL, is known for its aerospace and defense industries. IT professionals here work on projects for major companies. The city offers a stable job market with opportunities for growth.
Find Systems Administrator jobs in Huntsville, AL
What are the best companies a Systems Administrator can work for?

-
Praxis Engineering
Average Salary: $213,122
Praxis Engineering is a top employer for Systems Administrators. They work with various sectors, including aerospace and defense. They have locations across the United States.
-
Captivation Software
Average Salary: $200,000
Captivation Software is known for its high-paying positions for Systems Administrators. They focus on creating software solutions for clients. They operate nationwide.
-
DCI Solutions
Average Salary: $190,750
DCI Solutions offers competitive salaries for Systems Administrators. They work with government and commercial clients. Their headquarters is in California, with offices across the US.
-
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Average Salary: $157,946
This renowned research lab offers attractive salaries for Systems Administrators. They work on high-tech projects. Their main campus is in Maryland, with offices in various locations.
-
Parsons
Average Salary: $143,548
Parsons provides good compensation for Systems Administrators. They work in infrastructure and technology. They have offices throughout the United States.
-
BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $136,854
BAE Systems USA offers solid salaries for Systems Administrators. They focus on defense and aerospace. They have multiple locations across the country.
-
Piper Companies
Average Salary: $133,696
Piper Companies offers competitive pay for Systems Administrators. They work in various industries. Their offices are located in several states.
-
Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $132,884
Kaiser Permanente offers good salaries for Systems Administrators. They focus on healthcare technology. They have many locations on the West Coast.
-
Belcan
Average Salary: $129,544
Belcan provides good pay for Systems Administrators. They work in engineering and technology. They have offices in several states.
-
Raytheon
Average Salary: $127,684
Raytheon offers competitive salaries for Systems Administrators. They focus on defense and security. They have offices across the United States.
How to earn more as a Systems Administrator?
A Systems Administrator can take steps to increase earnings. They can focus on gaining more skills and certifications to stand out. Job seekers should know these key factors to earn more in this field.
First, gaining advanced certifications can help. Earning credentials like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or the CompTIA Data Center+ can improve job prospects. These certifications show expertise and commitment to the field. Next, gaining experience in cloud services can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Skills in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud can make a candidate more attractive. Learning new technologies keeps skills current. Experience with different systems and tools is valuable. Networking with professionals and attending industry events also helps. Sharing knowledge and making connections can lead to better job offers. Finally, taking on leadership roles can boost earnings. Managing a team or projects shows readiness for higher responsibility and pay.
Consider these factors to boost income as a Systems Administrator. Gaining certifications, learning new technologies, and taking on leadership roles can make a significant difference. Continuous learning and professional networking are key to success in this field.
- Gain advanced certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Data Center+
- Learn cloud services such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud
- Gain experience with various systems and tools
- Network with professionals and attend industry events
- Take on leadership roles and manage teams or projects



