Database Administrators vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developers out-earn Database Administrators by $31K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Database Administrators land at $104,620 and Software Developers at $135,980. The education gap is real: database administrator programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Database Administrators is Utah ($135,750); for Software Developers it's California ($174,410).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Database Administrators median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Database Administrators or Software Developers?
Software Developers earn more nationally. The median is $104,620 for Database Administrators versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $31K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Database Administrators or Software Developers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Database Administrators or Software Developers?
Database Administrators typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Database Administrators get paid the most?
Utah is the top-paying state for Database Administrators at $135,750/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Database Administrators vs. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Massachusetts, Database Administrators earn $129,300 vs. $165,210 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.