Database Administrators: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 73,180 database administrators, and they earn a median of $104,620/year. The range runs from $57K to $161K. New Jersey pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level database administrators start around $57K. The gap between that and the median ($105K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $161K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $129K | 2,060 |
| District of Columbia | $128K | 550 |
| Maryland | $122K | 2,640 |
| New Hampshire | $122K | 230 |
| Massachusetts | $117K | 1,940 |
| Washington | $115K | 2,190 |
| Kansas | $113K | 560 |
| California | $111K | 8,360 |
| Texas | $110K | 6,110 |
| North Carolina | $108K | 1,990 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a database administrators make?▼
The median database administrators salary in the United States is $104,620 per year ($50/hour). Entry-level positions start around $56,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,890.
What education do you need to become a database administrators?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for database administrators?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for database administrators.
What are the highest paying states for database administrators?▼
The highest paying states for database administrators are New Jersey ($128,970), District of Columbia ($128,440), Maryland ($122,110), New Hampshire ($121,820), Massachusetts ($117,420). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.