Network and Computer Systems Administrators vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developers out-earn Network and Computer Systems Administrators by $37K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Network and Computer Systems Administrators land at $99,130 and Software Developers 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 Administrators is Maryland ($118,290); for Software Developers 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 Administrators or Software Developers?
Software Developers earn more nationally. The median is $99,130 for Network and Computer Systems Administrators versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $37K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Network and Computer Systems Administrators or Software Developers?
Software Developers has the better 10-year outlook at 15.8% 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 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 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. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Maryland, Network and Computer Systems Administrators earn $118,290 vs. $138,680 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.