Network Engineer vs Data Architect: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Network Engineer
Design, implement, and manage computer network infrastructure.
Data Architect
Design enterprise data systems, lakes, and pipelines for scalability and governance.
Data Architect earns more on average — the national median is $16,565/year (12%) higher than a Network Engineer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Network Engineer vs Data Architect — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Network Engineer | Data Architect | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $195,491 | $223,662 | Network $28,171 |
| New York, NY | $165,772 | $176,070 | Network $10,298 |
| Seattle, WA | $192,889 | $213,160 | Network $20,271 |
| Austin, TX | $149,704 | $169,668 | Network $19,964 |
| Chicago, IL | $145,221 | $163,518 | Network $18,297 |
| Boston, MA | $176,955 | $192,776 | Network $15,821 |
| London, UK | £106,873 | £114,371 | Network $7,498 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$177,211 | CA$200,067 | Network $22,856 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Network Engineer or Data Architect earn more?+
A Data Architect earns more on average. The national median salary for a Network Engineer is $134,050/year, compared to $150,615/year for a Data Architect — a difference of $16,565 (12%).
Which has better career growth — Network Engineer or Data Architect?+
Network Engineer roles are growing at 6% YoY while Data Architect demand is growing at 28% YoY. Data Architect has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Network Engineer to Data Architect?+
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 — Network Engineer or Data Architect?+
Data Architect has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.