Frontend Developer 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.
Frontend Developer
Build user interfaces and web experiences using modern frameworks.
IT Support Specialist
Provide technical support for hardware, software, and networks.
Frontend Developer earns more on average — the national median is $74,120/year (120%) higher than a IT Support Specialist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Frontend Developer vs IT Support Specialist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Frontend Developer | IT Support Specialist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $192,184 | $92,808 | Frontend +$99,376 |
| New York, NY | $161,096 | $72,917 | Frontend +$88,179 |
| Seattle, WA | $196,031 | $86,967 | Frontend +$109,064 |
| Austin, TX | $148,203 | $69,244 | Frontend +$78,959 |
| Chicago, IL | $141,696 | $64,877 | Frontend +$76,819 |
| Boston, MA | $178,445 | $79,215 | Frontend +$99,230 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £47,998 | Frontend +$25,944 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$84,196 | Frontend +$41,956 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Frontend Developer or IT Support Specialist earn more?+
A Frontend Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Frontend Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $61,860/year for a IT Support Specialist — a difference of $74,120 (120%).
Which has better career growth — Frontend Developer or IT Support Specialist?+
Frontend Developer roles are growing at 22% YoY while IT Support Specialist demand is growing at 5% YoY. Frontend Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Frontend Developer 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 — Frontend Developer or IT Support Specialist?+
Frontend Developer has a lower AI automation risk (44% vs 71%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.