Frontend Developer vs Systems 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.
Systems Administrator
Manage servers, operating systems, and IT infrastructure.
Frontend Developer earns more on average — the national median is $36,850/year (37%) higher than a Systems Administrator. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Frontend Developer vs Systems Administrator — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Frontend Developer | Systems Administrator | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $192,184 | $146,173 | Frontend +$46,011 |
| New York, NY | $161,096 | $120,157 | Frontend +$40,939 |
| Seattle, WA | $196,031 | $143,912 | Frontend +$52,119 |
| Austin, TX | $148,203 | $108,712 | Frontend +$39,491 |
| Chicago, IL | $141,696 | $104,809 | Frontend +$36,887 |
| Boston, MA | $178,445 | $127,175 | Frontend +$51,270 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £76,827 | Frontend $2,885 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$130,867 | Frontend $4,715 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Frontend Developer or Systems Administrator earn more?+
A Frontend Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Frontend Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $99,130/year for a Systems Administrator — a difference of $36,850 (37%).
Which has better career growth — Frontend Developer or Systems Administrator?+
Frontend Developer roles are growing at 22% YoY while Systems Administrator demand is growing at 4% YoY. Frontend Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Frontend Developer to Systems 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 Systems Administrator?+
Frontend Developer has a lower AI automation risk (44% vs 64%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.