UX Designer vs Network Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
UX Designer
Design intuitive user experiences through research and prototyping.
Network Engineer
Design, implement, and manage computer network infrastructure.
Network Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $30,050/year (29%) higher than a UX Designer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
UX Designer vs Network Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | UX Designer | Network Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,252 | $195,491 | UX $44,239 |
| New York, NY | $122,423 | $165,772 | UX $43,349 |
| Seattle, WA | $150,553 | $192,889 | UX $42,336 |
| Austin, TX | $117,269 | $149,704 | UX $32,435 |
| Chicago, IL | $112,927 | $145,221 | UX $32,294 |
| Boston, MA | $131,883 | $176,955 | UX $45,072 |
| London, UK | £82,676 | £106,873 | UX $24,197 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$137,578 | CA$177,211 | UX $39,633 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a UX Designer or Network Engineer earn more?+
A Network Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a UX Designer is $104,000/year, compared to $134,050/year for a Network Engineer — a difference of $30,050 (29%).
Which has better career growth — UX Designer or Network Engineer?+
UX Designer roles are growing at 20% YoY while Network Engineer demand is growing at 6% YoY. UX Designer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from UX Designer to Network Engineer?+
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 — UX Designer or Network Engineer?+
UX Designer has a lower AI automation risk (38% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.