Solutions Architect vs IT Support Specialist: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Solutions Architect
Design technical solutions to meet customer business requirements.
IT Support Specialist
Provide technical support for hardware, software, and networks.
Solutions Architect earns more on average — the national median is $54,720/year (88%) higher than a IT Support Specialist. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Solutions Architect vs IT Support Specialist — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Solutions Architect | IT Support Specialist | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $166,946 | $92,808 | Solutions +$74,138 |
| New York, NY | $142,757 | $72,917 | Solutions +$69,840 |
| Seattle, WA | $165,593 | $86,967 | Solutions +$78,626 |
| Austin, TX | $130,504 | $69,244 | Solutions +$61,260 |
| Chicago, IL | $128,220 | $64,877 | Solutions +$63,343 |
| Boston, MA | $149,219 | $79,215 | Solutions +$70,004 |
| London, UK | £88,896 | £47,998 | Solutions +$40,898 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$151,769 | CA$84,196 | Solutions +$67,573 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Solutions Architect or IT Support Specialist earn more?+
A Solutions Architect earns more on average. The national median salary for a Solutions Architect is $116,580/year, compared to $61,860/year for a IT Support Specialist — a difference of $54,720 (88%).
Which has better career growth — Solutions Architect or IT Support Specialist?+
Solutions Architect roles are growing at 24% YoY while IT Support Specialist demand is growing at 5% YoY. Solutions Architect has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Solutions Architect to IT Support Specialist?+
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 — Solutions Architect or IT Support Specialist?+
Solutions Architect has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 71%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.