How much does a Systems Administrator make?
A Systems Administrator plays a key role in keeping computer systems running smoothly. They manage servers, networks, and databases. This job is in demand, and the pay reflects the skill and responsibility needed. The average yearly salary for a Systems Administrator is $97,348. This means that, on average, someone in this role can expect to earn nearly $100,000 each year.
The salary for Systems Administrators can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level positions may start around $51,680. With more experience, salaries can rise significantly. At the top of the pay scale, experienced Systems Administrators can earn over $175,000 a year. This wide range shows that there is good potential for growth in this career. Companies value skilled Systems Administrators, and this is reflected in their pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Systems Administrator?

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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $125,194
In Manchester, NH, IT professionals enjoy a blend of urban and suburban living. Companies like BAE Systems and BAE Systems Technologies offer opportunities to work with cutting-edge systems. The city's growing tech scene provides a dynamic environment for career growth.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $115,403
San Jose, CA, is at the heart of Silicon Valley, offering a vibrant tech environment. Working with tech giants like Apple and Cisco, professionals here manage complex systems. The city's innovative spirit makes it an exciting place for IT careers.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $114,028
In Washington, DC, IT professionals work in a politically charged environment. Companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin provide opportunities to manage critical systems. The city's diverse job market offers a range of career paths.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $112,977
San Francisco, CA, is a tech hub with companies like Google and Salesforce. Professionals here manage advanced systems in a fast-paced environment. The city's innovative culture makes it a great place for IT careers.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $111,368
Seattle, WA, offers a mix of tech and natural beauty. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide opportunities to work with cutting-edge systems. The city's tech-friendly environment supports career growth.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $107,663
In Colorado Springs, CO, IT professionals work in a city known for its military and tech sectors. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman offer opportunities to manage critical systems. The city's growing tech scene provides a dynamic environment for career growth.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $106,043
Baltimore, MD, offers a mix of urban and suburban living. Companies like IBM and Lockheed Martin provide opportunities to work with advanced systems. The city's diverse job market offers a range of career paths.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $105,625
San Diego, CA, is a tech hub with companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics. Professionals here manage advanced systems in a fast-paced environment. The city's innovative culture makes it a great place for IT careers.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $104,524
Boulder, CO, offers a mix of outdoor activities and tech opportunities. Companies like Google and Lockheed Martin provide opportunities to work with cutting-edge systems. The city's growing tech scene offers a dynamic environment for career growth.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $102,175
Los Angeles, CA, is a tech hub with companies like Amazon and Google. Professionals here manage advanced systems in a fast-paced environment. The city's diverse job market offers a range of career paths.
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What are the best companies a Systems Administrator can work for?

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Inferno Systems, Inc.
Average Salary: $238,462
Inferno Systems, Inc. offers Systems Administrator jobs with a focus on cybersecurity and IT infrastructure. They operate in various locations, including Washington, D.C., and New York City.
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Praxis Engineering
Average Salary: $210,233
Praxis Engineering provides Systems Administrator roles with a strong emphasis on engineering and technology. They have offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and San Francisco, California.
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Captivation Software
Average Salary: $200,000
Captivation Software offers Systems Administrator jobs with a focus on software development and IT services. They operate in locations such as Austin, Texas, and Seattle, Washington.
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DCI Solutions
Average Salary: $193,571
DCI Solutions provides Systems Administrator roles with a focus on IT consulting and infrastructure. They have offices in Chicago, Illinois, and Denver, Colorado.
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Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Average Salary: $154,219
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory offers Systems Administrator jobs with a focus on research and development. They operate in locations such as Laurel, Maryland, and Baltimore, Maryland.
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PayPal
Average Salary: $136,683
PayPal offers Systems Administrator roles with a focus on financial technology and online payments. They have offices in San Jose, California, and San Francisco, California.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $136,561
BAE Systems USA provides Systems Administrator jobs with a focus on defense and aerospace technology. They operate in locations such as Arlington, Virginia, and San Diego, California.
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Parsons
Average Salary: $134,033
Parsons offers Systems Administrator roles with a focus on infrastructure and technology services. They have offices in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, California.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $133,696
Piper Companies provides Systems Administrator jobs with a focus on financial services and technology. They operate in locations such as Chicago, Illinois, and New York City, New York.
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Gridiron IT
Average Salary: $131,136
Gridiron IT offers Systems Administrator roles with a focus on IT consulting and infrastructure. They have offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and Austin, Texas.
How to earn more as a Systems Administrator?
A Systems Administrator can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions. Certifications from recognized organizations like CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco are highly valued. These certifications demonstrate a deep understanding of systems and technologies, making the candidate more attractive to employers.
Experience plays a crucial role in salary negotiations. Working in various environments and managing different systems can lead to a broader skill set. This experience can make a Systems Administrator more versatile and valuable to potential employers. Networking with other professionals in the field can also lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries. Attending industry conferences, joining professional groups, and participating in online forums can help build a strong professional network.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Systems Administrator:
- Certifications: Obtain recognized certifications to enhance skills and knowledge.
- Experience: Work in diverse environments to build a versatile skill set.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals to discover new job opportunities.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest technologies and trends.
- Specialization: Focus on specific areas like cloud computing or cybersecurity to become an expert.



