Enterprise Architect vs Network Engineer: 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.
Network Engineer
Design, implement, and manage computer network infrastructure.
Network Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $17,470/year (15%) higher than a Enterprise Architect. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Enterprise Architect vs Network Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Enterprise Architect | Network Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $174,584 | $195,491 | Enterprise $20,907 |
| New York, NY | $138,849 | $165,772 | Enterprise $26,923 |
| Seattle, WA | $170,016 | $192,889 | Enterprise $22,873 |
| Austin, TX | $128,905 | $149,704 | Enterprise $20,799 |
| Chicago, IL | $126,306 | $145,221 | Enterprise $18,915 |
| Boston, MA | $150,648 | $176,955 | Enterprise $26,307 |
| London, UK | £92,059 | £106,873 | Enterprise $14,814 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$158,112 | CA$177,211 | Enterprise $19,099 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Enterprise Architect or Network Engineer earn more?+
A Network Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Enterprise Architect is $116,580/year, compared to $134,050/year for a Network Engineer — a difference of $17,470 (15%).
Which has better career growth — Enterprise Architect or Network Engineer?+
Enterprise Architect roles are growing at 18% YoY while Network Engineer demand is growing at 6% YoY. Enterprise Architect has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Enterprise Architect to Network Engineer?+
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 Network Engineer?+
Enterprise Architect has a lower AI automation risk (25% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.