Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Systems Administrator salary

In United States, a backend developer earns about 54% more than a systems administrator — $148,000 vs $95,800 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Technology
Backend Developer
$148,000/yr
Monthly
$12,300
Hourly
$71
Range
$94,700–$213,100
10-yr outlook
+16%
Technology
Systems Administrator
$95,800/yr
Monthly
$8,000
Hourly
$46
Range
$66,500–$131,600
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperSystems Administrator
Entry (10th)$94,700$66,500
25th$121,400$81,100
Median$148,000$95,800
75th$180,600$113,700
Senior (90th)$213,100$131,600

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

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Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or systems administrator earn more in United States?
A backend developer earns more, at about $148,000 per year vs $95,800 for a systems administrator — roughly 54% ($52,200) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A backend developer typically earns $94,700–$213,100, while a systems administrator earns $66,500–$131,600 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about $12,300 and a systems administrator about $8,000.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $94,700 while a systems administrator earns about $66,500 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $213,100 while a systems administrator earns about $131,600 per year.
Are backend developer and systems administrator similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.