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Salary

How much does a Systems Administrator make?

The average salary for a Systems Administrator is $97,424 per year in the US.

Systems Administrators play a key role in keeping computers and networks running smoothly. On average, they earn around $97,424 a year. This figure changes based on experience and location. Salaries range from about $46,500 to over $184,000 annually. These professionals ensure that computer systems work well and are secure.

Here's how salaries break down:

  • The lowest 10% earn about $46,500.
  • The next 20% make between $59,000 and $71,559.
  • The middle 20% earn from $84,000 to $96,618.
  • The top 20% make between $121,677 and $184,000.
Most Systems Administrators fall in the middle, earning between $71,559 and $121,677 a year. Higher salaries usually come with more experience and responsibilities.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Administrator?

Systems Administrators can find excellent job opportunities in several cities. Manchester, NH, offers a high average salary of $125,694. Close behind are San Francisco, CA, with $124,851, and Washington, DC, with $116,082. These cities provide competitive pay and a chance to work in tech-rich environments. Other top-paying cities include San Jose, CA, and Baltimore, MD, both with salaries around $112,000. Cities like Boulder, CO, and Seattle, WA, also offer strong salaries, making them attractive places for Systems Administrators to seek employment.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Systems Administrator jobs, highlighting Manchester, NH with the highest at $125,694 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $105,394.
  1. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $125,694
    Working as an IT professional in Manchester, NH means you’ll find a blend of smaller companies and large corporations. The city’s tech scene offers a mix of growth opportunities and stability. Companies like BAE Systems and BAE Systems Inc. are prominent employers, providing robust IT infrastructures.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Manchester, NH


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $124,851
    In San Francisco, CA, an IT professional can thrive amidst the tech giants. The city is home to companies like Google, Apple, and Salesforce. These firms offer cutting-edge projects and career advancement. The vibrant tech community provides plenty of networking and learning opportunities.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $116,082
    Washington, DC, is a hub for government and tech companies. Working here, you’ll support various agencies and private firms, ensuring smooth IT operations. Companies such as Booz Allen Hamilton and Leidos are significant employers. The city’s political and tech intersections create a unique work environment.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Washington, DC


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $113,964
    San Jose, CA, is the heart of Silicon Valley. Here, an IT professional can work with some of the world’s biggest tech companies like Intel and Cisco. The city offers dynamic projects and a fast-paced work environment. Networking and professional growth are abundant in this tech-centric city.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $112,354
    Baltimore, MD, is a growing tech hub with a mix of industries. The city’s IT professionals often work with companies like Under Armour and Black & Decker. The tech scene is expanding, offering diverse job opportunities. The cost of living is moderate, making it an attractive place to work.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  6. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $112,348
    In Boulder, CO, you'll find a mix of tech startups and established companies. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a great place to work. Companies like Google and Ball Corporation offer stable IT roles. The Boulder tech scene is growing, providing ample opportunities for career growth.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Boulder, CO


  7. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $110,078
    Seattle, WA, is known for its tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon. Working here means you’ll be part of a dynamic and innovative environment. The city’s IT professionals often enjoy a strong sense of community. Seattle’s focus on tech innovation offers many opportunities for professional development.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $109,776
    Colorado Springs, CO, is a tech hub with a strong military presence. IT professionals here often work with defense contractors and tech companies. The city’s growing tech scene offers plenty of opportunities. The lower cost of living and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  9. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $107,576
    San Diego, CA, offers a blend of tech companies and military installations. IT professionals here work on diverse projects with companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics. The city’s pleasant climate and vibrant culture create a great work environment. Networking and professional growth are abundant.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in San Diego, CA


  10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $105,394
    Los Angeles, CA, is a vast tech market with opportunities in entertainment and tech. Companies like Amazon and Google provide a variety of projects. The city’s diverse tech scene offers many chances for innovation. The cost of living is high, but the professional opportunities are plentiful.
    Find Systems Administrator jobs in Los Angeles, CA

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

Top-tier companies that offer excellent compensation for Systems Administrator positions include Praxis Engineering, Captivation Software, and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. These organizations provide competitive salaries, making them attractive options for skilled professionals. Working for such companies can offer rewarding career opportunities and financial stability. Additionally, Parsons, BAE Systems USA, and Belcan also rank high on the list of top-paying employers for Systems Administrators. These firms value their IT staff, offering salaries that reflect their commitment to quality and innovation. This makes them appealing choices for those looking to advance in their careers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Systems Administrator jobs, highlighting Praxis Engineering with the highest at $206,607 and Raytheon with the lowest at $127,768.
  1. Praxis Engineering
    Average Salary: $206,607
    Praxis Engineering is a firm that values expertise in systems administration. They offer opportunities in various locations, including the U.S. and Canada. Their Systems Administrators work on maintaining and securing the company’s IT infrastructure.


  2. Captivation Software
    Average Salary: $200,000
    Captivation Software is an organization that relies heavily on their Systems Administrators to ensure seamless operations. They operate across the U.S. and are known for their robust benefits and growth opportunities.


  3. Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
    Average Salary: $163,917
    The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory offers exciting roles for Systems Administrators. They work in Maryland and have a focus on research and development. Their Systems Administrators are crucial in supporting cutting-edge projects.


  4. Parsons
    Average Salary: $145,307
    Parsons provides Systems Administrator roles in multiple locations across the U.S. Their teams focus on managing IT infrastructure for both government and private sectors, ensuring secure and efficient operations.


  5. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $138,635
    BAE Systems USA offers dynamic opportunities for Systems Administrators in various states. They work in defense and technology sectors, requiring strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.


  6. Belcan
    Average Salary: $135,121
    Belcan provides positions for Systems Administrators in several locations in the U.S. They focus on delivering IT solutions for their clients, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation.


  7. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $135,089
    Kaiser Permanente offers roles for Systems Administrators across multiple states in the U.S. They focus on maintaining and enhancing the company's IT systems to support healthcare services.


  8. Piper Companies
    Average Salary: $134,652
    Piper Companies offers Systems Administrator positions in several locations in the U.S. They focus on managing and securing the company’s IT infrastructure to support their diverse operations.


  9. Dhara Consulting Group
    Average Salary: $128,436
    Dhara Consulting Group provides opportunities for Systems Administrators in multiple states. They focus on delivering IT services to their clients, requiring strong technical skills and teamwork.


  10. Raytheon
    Average Salary: $127,768
    Raytheon offers Systems Administrator positions in various locations in the U.S. They focus on managing and securing IT infrastructure for their defense and technology projects.

How to earn more as a Systems Administrator?

A Systems Administrator plays a key role in keeping businesses running smoothly. With the right skills and certifications, it is possible to earn more in this role. Improving one's income can lead to greater job satisfaction and more opportunities.

Here are five important factors to consider for increasing your earnings as a Systems Administrator:

  1. Earn relevant certifications: Certifications from recognized organizations can show employers your skills and knowledge. They can also lead to higher-paying jobs. Consider certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft.
  2. Gain experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Seek roles that allow you to learn new skills and take on more responsibilities.
  3. Learn new technologies: Staying updated with the latest technologies can make you more valuable. Learn about cloud computing, cybersecurity, and other trending areas.
  4. Specialize in a niche: Focusing on a specific area, such as network administration or database management, can help you stand out. Specialization can lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities.
  5. Seek higher-level positions: Moving into roles like IT Manager or Chief Technology Officer can significantly increase your income. These roles require leadership skills and a deeper understanding of IT systems.

Currently 665 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.
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Systems Administrator
665 Job Openings