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How much does a Systems Administrator make?

The average salary for a Systems Administrator is $97,584 per year in the US.

A Systems Administrator plays a key role in keeping computer systems running smoothly. This important job comes with a good salary. On average, a Systems Administrator makes around $97,584 per year. This means that many Systems Administrators earn a decent income.

Here is a look at the salary distribution for Systems Administrators. A smaller percentage of Systems Administrators earn less than $57,899 each year, while a larger percentage earn between $83,697 and $135,292 annually. The highest earners in this field make over $161,090 per year. This range shows that with experience and skill, the salary can grow significantly. This career path offers opportunities for advancement and higher pay.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Administrator?

Systems Administrators can earn competitive salaries in several cities. San Francisco, CA, offers the highest average salary at $126,572. Other top-paying cities include Manchester, NH, and Washington, DC, with average salaries of $123,718 and $115,977, respectively. Job seekers may find these locations attractive for both their earning potential and professional opportunities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Systems Administrator jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $126,572 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $107,635.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $126,572
    In San Francisco, you'll find a bustling tech scene with many opportunities. Companies like Apple and Salesforce rely on skilled professionals to keep their systems running smoothly. The dynamic environment provides plenty of growth and networking opportunities.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $123,718
    Manchester offers a more relaxed pace while still providing solid opportunities for IT professionals. Local companies benefit from your expertise in maintaining efficient IT systems. The area also offers a lower cost of living, making it an attractive option.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Manchester, NH


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $115,977
    Washington, DC, is a hub for government and defense sectors, creating a steady demand for IT support. Working here means you'll be part of a community that values your skills in keeping critical systems operational. The city offers numerous professional development opportunities.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $112,668
    Baltimore provides a mix of urban and suburban living with a growing tech scene. Companies in the healthcare and finance sectors often need your expertise to ensure their IT infrastructure is robust. The cost of living is moderate, making it an attractive choice.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  5. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $112,118
    Boulder is known for its outdoor lifestyle and vibrant tech community. Companies here appreciate professionals who can manage their IT needs effectively. The scenic surroundings offer a great quality of life, balancing work and personal time well.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Boulder, CO


  6. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $111,587
    Seattle is a tech powerhouse with companies like Amazon and Microsoft needing your skills. The city offers a lively work environment with many professional networking events. Seattle’s climate and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $111,265
    San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, filled with tech startups and established companies. Working here means you'll be at the forefront of IT innovation. The high demand for IT professionals makes it an excellent place for career growth.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA


  8. Springfield, IL
    Average Salary: $111,069
    Springfield offers a smaller city feel with a supportive business community. Companies here value your expertise in keeping their IT systems up-to-date. The lower cost of living and friendly atmosphere make it a pleasant place to work and live.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Springfield, IL


  9. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $110,558
    Colorado Springs is known for its picturesque scenery and strong military presence. This creates a unique environment for IT professionals. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities and professional opportunities, making it a balanced choice.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  10. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $107,635
    San Diego combines beautiful weather with a strong tech sector. Companies in biotech and defense sectors often seek your skills to maintain their systems. The city's laid-back lifestyle and great beaches make it a desirable place to live.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Diego, CA

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

Praxis Engineering offers the highest average salary for Systems Administrators, at nearly $207,000. Captivation Software also pays well, with an average salary around $200,000. Other top-paying companies include Parsons, BAE Systems USA, and Piper Companies. Securing a Systems Administrator role with one of these companies can lead to a rewarding career with excellent compensation. Kaiser Permanente, Belcan, Raytheon, AMH, and CACI International also offer competitive salaries for this position. These companies provide opportunities for professional growth and financial stability.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Systems Administrator jobs, highlighting Praxis Engineering with the highest at $206,607 and CACI International with the lowest at $124,090.
  1. Praxis Engineering
    Average Salary: $206,607
    Praxis Engineering offers exciting opportunities for Systems Administrators. They work in various locations across the U.S., including Washington D.C., and California. They focus on providing technical solutions for government and commercial clients.


  2. Captivation Software
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Captivation Software hires Systems Administrators who work in states like California and Virginia. They provide innovative solutions for federal agencies. Their work environment supports professional growth and learning.


  3. Parsons
    Average Salary: $145,307
    Parsons has Systems Administrator roles across the country, including in Texas and Colorado. They focus on infrastructure and cybersecurity. Parsons offers many opportunities for career advancement.


  4. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $138,765
    BAE Systems USA seeks Systems Administrators in locations such as Virginia and California. They work on advanced technology projects. They provide a collaborative and dynamic work environment.


  5. Piper Companies
    Average Salary: $138,152
    Piper Companies hires Systems Administrators in locations like Colorado and Maryland. They provide financial services technology solutions. They offer a supportive and innovative work culture.


  6. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $135,357
    Kaiser Permanente offers Systems Administrator positions in California and Washington. They focus on healthcare IT services. They provide a stable and rewarding work environment.


  7. Belcan
    Average Salary: $130,228
    Belcan has Systems Administrator roles in states such as Texas and Florida. They provide engineering and technical services. They offer many opportunities for professional development.


  8. Raytheon
    Average Salary: $127,603
    Raytheon seeks Systems Administrators in Virginia and Colorado. They focus on defense and technology solutions. They provide a dynamic and challenging work environment.


  9. AMH
    Average Salary: $126,628
    AMH offers Systems Administrator positions in California and Maryland. They provide IT and engineering services. They support a collaborative and innovative work culture.


  10. CACI International
    Average Salary: $124,090
    CACI International hires Systems Administrators in locations like Virginia and California. They provide IT solutions for federal agencies. They offer a challenging and rewarding work environment.

How to earn more as a Systems Administrator?

A Systems Administrator has many opportunities to advance in their career and increase their salary. One key way to earn more is by gaining relevant certifications. These prove skills and knowledge in specific areas, making a candidate more attractive to employers. Popular certifications include CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, and Cisco CCNA.

Experience matters when it comes to earning more. Working in the field for several years builds a solid background that employers value. Seeking roles that offer challenges and learning opportunities can lead to better positions. Networking with other professionals and staying updated on industry trends also enhances job prospects. Companies often look for candidates with a proven track record of success.

Specializing in a niche can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or database management are in demand. Focusing on these areas can lead to more opportunities and higher salaries. Job seekers can look for roles that match their specialization and gain further expertise through training and experience.

Here are some factors that can help a Systems Administrator earn more:

  1. Obtain relevant certifications
  2. Gain experience in the field
  3. Specialize in a niche area
  4. Network with other professionals
  5. Stay updated on industry trends

Currently 680 Systems Administrator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Systems Administrator in the US?

Learn what a Systems Administrator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Systems Administrator today.
Position
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Systems Administrator
680 Job Openings