Game 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.
Game Developer
Build video games for PC, console, and mobile platforms.
Database Administrator
Design, implement, and maintain databases for performance, security, and reliability.
Game 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.
Game Developer vs Database Administrator — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Game Developer | Database Administrator | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $193,262 | $143,960 | Game +$49,302 |
| New York, NY | $160,244 | $113,900 | Game +$46,344 |
| Seattle, WA | $191,791 | $137,758 | Game +$54,033 |
| Austin, TX | $153,586 | $110,792 | Game +$42,794 |
| Chicago, IL | $149,561 | $100,682 | Game +$48,879 |
| Boston, MA | $175,129 | $127,909 | Game +$47,220 |
| London, UK | £103,778 | £77,179 | Game +$26,599 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$181,136 | CA$127,247 | Game +$53,889 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Game Developer or Database Administrator earn more?+
A Game Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Game 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 — Game Developer or Database Administrator?+
Game Developer roles are growing at 14% YoY while Database Administrator demand is growing at 8% YoY. Game Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Game 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 — Game Developer or Database Administrator?+
Game Developer has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.