As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Database Administrator I in the United States is $72,173 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, a Database Administrator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Database Administrator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Database Administrator I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Database Administrator I | 0-2 years | $72,173 |
| Database Administrator II | 2-4 years | $104,413 |
| Database Administrator III | 4-7 years | $116,999 |
| Database Administrator IV | 7+ years | $136,864 |
| Database Administration Manager | 7+ years | $153,431 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Database Administrator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 3.98% |
| Data Entry | 2.45% |
| Data Warehouse | 1.56% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Azure
|
$78,669 |
9%
|
|
SQL Server Databases
|
$77,947 |
8%
|
|
Disaster Recovery
|
$77,947 |
8%
|
|
SQL
|
$77,225 |
7%
|
|
SQL Server
|
$77,225 |
7%
|
|
Troubleshooting
|
$76,503 |
6%
|
Understanding how a Database Administrator I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Database Administrator I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| CRM Administrator II | $90,420 | 25% |
| Master Data Management Analyst II | $89,935 | 25% |
| Database Administrator II | $104,413 | 45% |
| ERP Administrator II | $101,358 | 40% |
Salaries for a Database Administrator I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $72,297 in 2023 to around $72,129 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Database Administrator I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $72,297 |
| 2024 | $72,631 |
| 2025 | $72,129 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Database Administrator I and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Database Administrator I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Database Administrator I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Database Administrator I is $91,032.
The highest pay for Database Administrator I is $75,367.
The lowest pay for Database Administrator I is $52,285.
Administers and maintains the company database and data warehouses. Implements and monitors database access and configurations. Resolves database performance and capacity issues. Performs database recovery and back-up. May involve in capacity planning, and some development work. May require a bachelor's degree or its equivalent. Typically reports to a manager. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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