Network and Computer Systems Administrators vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developerss out-earn Network and Computer Systems Administratorss by $37K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Network and Computer Systems Administratorss land at $99,130 and Software Developerss at $135,980. The education gap is real: network and computer systems administrator programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Network and Computer Systems Administratorss is Maryland ($118,290); for Software Developerss it's California ($174,410).
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 Administratorss or Software Developerss?
Software Developerss earn more nationally. The median is $99,130 for Network and Computer Systems Administratorss versus $135,980 for Software Developerss, a difference of $37K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Network and Computer Systems 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, Network and Computer Systems Administrators or Software Developers?
Network and Computer Systems Administrators typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Network and Computer Systems Administratorss get paid the most?
Maryland is the top-paying state for Network and Computer Systems Administratorss 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. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Maryland, Network and Computer Systems Administratorss earn $118,290 vs. $138,680 for Software Developerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.