Network and Computer Systems Administrators vs. Computer User Support Specialists: Who Earns More?
Network and Computer Systems Administrators out-earn Computer User Support Specialists by $37K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Network and Computer Systems Administrators land at $99,130 and Computer User Support Specialists at $61,860. The education gap is real: network and computer systems administrator programs typically require bachelor's degree, while computer user support specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Network and Computer Systems Administrators is Maryland ($118,290); for Computer User Support Specialists it's District of Columbia ($80,950).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Network and Computer Systems Administrators median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Network and Computer Systems Administrators or Computer User Support Specialists?
Network and Computer Systems Administrators earn more nationally. The median is $99,130 for Network and Computer Systems Administrators versus $61,860 for Computer User Support Specialists, a difference of $37K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Network and Computer Systems Administrators or Computer User Support Specialists?
Computer User Support Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at -3.7% projected growth, compared to -4.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Network and Computer Systems Administrators or Computer User Support Specialists?
Network and Computer Systems Administrators typically requires bachelor's degree. Computer User Support Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Network and Computer Systems Administrators get paid the most?
Maryland is the top-paying state for Network and Computer Systems Administrators at $118,290/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Network and Computer Systems Administrators vs. Computer User Support Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Maryland, Network and Computer Systems Administrators earn $118,290 vs. $64,750 for Computer User Support Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.