Enterprise Architect vs IT Support Specialist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Enterprise Architect
Align IT architecture with business strategy at the enterprise level.
IT Support Specialist
Provide technical support for hardware, software, and networks.
Enterprise Architect earns more on average — the national median is $54,720/year (88%) higher than a IT Support Specialist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Enterprise Architect vs IT Support Specialist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Enterprise Architect | IT Support Specialist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $174,584 | $92,808 | Enterprise +$81,776 |
| New York, NY | $138,849 | $72,917 | Enterprise +$65,932 |
| Seattle, WA | $170,016 | $86,967 | Enterprise +$83,049 |
| Austin, TX | $128,905 | $69,244 | Enterprise +$59,661 |
| Chicago, IL | $126,306 | $64,877 | Enterprise +$61,429 |
| Boston, MA | $150,648 | $79,215 | Enterprise +$71,433 |
| London, UK | £92,059 | £47,998 | Enterprise +$44,061 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$158,112 | CA$84,196 | Enterprise +$73,916 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Enterprise Architect or IT Support Specialist earn more?+
A Enterprise Architect earns more on average. The national median salary for a Enterprise Architect is $116,580/year, compared to $61,860/year for a IT Support Specialist — a difference of $54,720 (88%).
Which has better career growth — Enterprise Architect or IT Support Specialist?+
Enterprise Architect roles are growing at 18% YoY while IT Support Specialist demand is growing at 5% YoY. Enterprise Architect has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Enterprise Architect to IT Support Specialist?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Enterprise Architect or IT Support Specialist?+
Enterprise Architect has a lower AI automation risk (25% vs 71%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.