IT Manager vs Database Administrator: 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.
Database Administrator
Design, implement, and maintain databases for performance, security, and reliability.
IT Manager earns more on average — the national median is $78,462/year (81%) higher than a Database Administrator. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
IT Manager vs Database Administrator — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | IT Manager | Database Administrator | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $260,907 | $143,960 | IT +$116,947 |
| New York, NY | $206,737 | $113,900 | IT +$92,837 |
| Seattle, WA | $253,469 | $137,758 | IT +$115,711 |
| Austin, TX | $194,345 | $110,792 | IT +$83,553 |
| Chicago, IL | $186,335 | $100,682 | IT +$85,653 |
| Boston, MA | $234,529 | $127,909 | IT +$106,620 |
| London, UK | £138,371 | £77,179 | IT +$61,192 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$227,074 | CA$127,247 | IT +$99,827 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a IT Manager or Database Administrator earn more?+
A IT Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a IT Manager is $175,140/year, compared to $96,678/year for a Database Administrator — a difference of $78,462 (81%).
Which has better career growth — IT Manager or Database Administrator?+
IT Manager roles are growing at 10% YoY while Database Administrator demand is growing at 8% YoY. IT Manager has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from IT Manager 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 — IT Manager or Database Administrator?+
IT Manager has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.