iOS Developer vs Data Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
iOS Developer
Build native applications for Apple iPhone and iPad.
Data Engineer
Build and maintain data pipelines, warehouses, and ETL infrastructure.
Data Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $3,520/year (3%) higher than a iOS Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
iOS Developer vs Data Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | iOS Developer | Data Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $203,984 | $202,499 | iOS +$1,485 |
| New York, NY | $159,203 | $131,540 | iOS +$27,663 |
| Seattle, WA | $188,620 | $105,430 | iOS +$83,190 |
| Austin, TX | $151,755 | $153,836 | iOS $2,081 |
| Chicago, IL | $142,066 | $154,010 | iOS $11,944 |
| Boston, MA | $178,564 | $179,962 | iOS $1,398 |
| London, UK | £107,314 | £108,711 | iOS $1,397 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$181,638 | CA$181,115 | iOS +$523 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a iOS Developer or Data Engineer earn more?+
A Data Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a iOS Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $139,500/year for a Data Engineer — a difference of $3,520 (3%).
Which has better career growth — iOS Developer or Data Engineer?+
iOS Developer roles are growing at 18% YoY while Data Engineer demand is growing at 34% YoY. Data Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from iOS Developer to Data Engineer?+
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 — iOS Developer or Data Engineer?+
Data Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (42% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.