Full Stack Developer vs IT Manager: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Full Stack Developer
Build both frontend and backend of web applications.
IT Manager
Oversee IT department operations, staff, and technology strategy.
IT Manager earns more on average — the national median is $39,160/year (29%) higher than a Full Stack Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Full Stack Developer vs IT Manager — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Full Stack Developer | IT Manager | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $198,461 | $260,907 | Full $62,446 |
| New York, NY | $159,461 | $206,737 | Full $47,276 |
| Seattle, WA | $190,473 | $253,469 | Full $62,996 |
| Austin, TX | $150,833 | $194,345 | Full $43,512 |
| Chicago, IL | $146,057 | $186,335 | Full $40,278 |
| Boston, MA | $175,364 | $234,529 | Full $59,165 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £138,371 | Full $64,429 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$227,074 | Full $100,922 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Full Stack Developer or IT Manager earn more?+
A IT Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Full Stack Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $175,140/year for a IT Manager — a difference of $39,160 (29%).
Which has better career growth — Full Stack Developer or IT Manager?+
Full Stack Developer roles are growing at 24% YoY while IT Manager demand is growing at 10% YoY. Full Stack Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Full Stack Developer to IT Manager?+
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 — Full Stack Developer or IT Manager?+
IT Manager has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 46%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.