IT Manager vs AR/VR Developer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
IT Manager
Oversee IT department operations, staff, and technology strategy.
AR/VR Developer
Build augmented and virtual reality experiences for gaming, enterprise, and training.
IT Manager earns more on average — the national median is $39,160/year (29%) higher than a AR/VR Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
IT Manager vs AR/VR Developer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | IT Manager | AR/VR Developer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $260,907 | $194,489 | IT +$66,418 |
| New York, NY | $206,737 | $166,830 | IT +$39,907 |
| Seattle, WA | $253,469 | $188,885 | IT +$64,584 |
| Austin, TX | $194,345 | $153,759 | IT +$40,586 |
| Chicago, IL | $186,335 | $144,495 | IT +$41,840 |
| Boston, MA | $234,529 | $172,806 | IT +$61,723 |
| London, UK | £138,371 | £103,650 | IT +$34,721 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$227,074 | CA$175,134 | IT +$51,940 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a IT Manager or AR/VR Developer earn more?+
A IT Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a IT Manager is $175,140/year, compared to $135,980/year for a AR/VR Developer — a difference of $39,160 (29%).
Which has better career growth — IT Manager or AR/VR Developer?+
IT Manager roles are growing at 10% YoY while AR/VR Developer demand is growing at 38% YoY. AR/VR Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from IT Manager to AR/VR Developer?+
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 — IT Manager or AR/VR Developer?+
AR/VR Developer has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.