Rust Developer vs IT Manager: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Rust Developer
Build systems-level software with memory safety using Rust.
IT Manager
Oversee IT department operations, staff, and technology strategy.
IT Manager earns more on average — the national median is $39,160/year (29%) higher than a Rust Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Rust Developer vs IT Manager — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Rust Developer | IT Manager | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $195,079 | $260,907 | Rust $65,828 |
| New York, NY | $166,830 | $206,737 | Rust $39,907 |
| Seattle, WA | $191,304 | $253,469 | Rust $62,165 |
| Austin, TX | $154,567 | $194,345 | Rust $39,778 |
| Chicago, IL | $143,868 | $186,335 | Rust $42,467 |
| Boston, MA | $179,869 | $234,529 | Rust $54,660 |
| London, UK | £106,048 | £138,371 | Rust $32,323 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$177,835 | CA$227,074 | Rust $49,239 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Rust Developer or IT Manager earn more?+
A IT Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Rust Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $175,140/year for a IT Manager — a difference of $39,160 (29%).
Which has better career growth — Rust Developer or IT Manager?+
Rust Developer roles are growing at 32% YoY while IT Manager demand is growing at 10% YoY. Rust Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Rust Developer to IT Manager?+
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 — Rust Developer or IT Manager?+
IT Manager has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 40%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.