Frontend Developer vs Database Administrator: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Frontend Developer
Build user interfaces and web experiences using modern frameworks.
Database Administrator
Design, implement, and maintain databases for performance, security, and reliability.
Frontend Developer earns more on average — the national median is $39,302/year (41%) higher than a Database Administrator. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Frontend Developer vs Database Administrator — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Frontend Developer | Database Administrator | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $192,184 | $143,960 | Frontend +$48,224 |
| New York, NY | $161,096 | $113,900 | Frontend +$47,196 |
| Seattle, WA | $196,031 | $137,758 | Frontend +$58,273 |
| Austin, TX | $148,203 | $110,792 | Frontend +$37,411 |
| Chicago, IL | $141,696 | $100,682 | Frontend +$41,014 |
| Boston, MA | $178,445 | $127,909 | Frontend +$50,536 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £77,179 | Frontend $3,237 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$127,247 | Frontend $1,095 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Frontend Developer or Database Administrator earn more?+
A Frontend Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Frontend Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $96,678/year for a Database Administrator — a difference of $39,302 (41%).
Which has better career growth — Frontend Developer or Database Administrator?+
Frontend Developer roles are growing at 22% YoY while Database Administrator demand is growing at 8% YoY. Frontend Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Frontend Developer to Database Administrator?+
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 — Frontend Developer or Database Administrator?+
Database Administrator has a lower AI automation risk (42% vs 44%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.