IT Manager Salary: Your 2025 Guide

As an IT manager, you can work in various companies and organizations, including those in the computer systems, financial, or manufacturing fields. You’ll typically plan and install computer hardware and software, learn about new technology for your organization, and negotiate with computer vendors on behalf of your company. 

If this sounds intriguing, you might be happy to know that the job outlook for IT managers looks promising. The number of IT manager positions available will continue expanding in the foreseeable future as organizations continue to rely on these professionals to oversee their computer, tech, and cybersecurity needs.

Explore the factors that can contribute to your IT manager salary below.

Read more: Do I Need an Information Technology Degree? What to Consider

What is an IT manager?

As an IT manager, you’re responsible for leading and managing your organization's IT department and overseeing its computer systems and information technology. You'll review your organization’s computer needs and recommend possible upgrades. You will also oversee the installation and maintenance of its hardware and software. 

As an IT manager, you might recruit, hire, and train new employees. You will need to remain abreast of new technological developments and determine if you can implement potential changes in your organization to keep up with changing trends in the field.

Read more: How to Become an IT Manager: Your Career Guide

How much does an IT manager make?

Computer and information systems managers make a median annual income of $169,510, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. Viewing the average IT manager’s earnings from multiple sources can provide a helpful view of your potential earnings. 

The following offers a look at the average salary calculated by the BLS and several other organizations that track salaries for information technology managers [1, 2, 3, 4]: 

*All salary data current as of December 2024

Factors that can affect an IT manager salary

Your education level and experience can boost your IT manager earnings. Where you live can also impact your salary due to the demand for IT professionals or the cost of living in a particular area. Depending on your interests or specialties, some sectors will earn more than others.

Education

Employers usually expect IT managers to have a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. Some companies also could require a graduate degree, such as a Master of Information Technology Management or a Master of Business Administration (MBA). 

The following represents the average IT manager salaries based on education level [2]:

• Some college or associate degree: $102,630

• Bachelor's degree: $123,558

• Master's degree: $132,068

• Doctorate: $134,881

Read more: Information Systems vs. Information Technology (IS vs. IT)

Experience

Your previous experience as an IT manager can affect your salary. The longer you work in the role, the more likely you will earn a higher annual income. According to Glassdoor, the estimated average salaries you can expect based on your previous experience include [3]:

• 1–3 years: $82,082

• 4–6 years: $89,011

• 7–9 years: $100,566

• 10–14 years: $111,901

• 15+ years: $124,192

Location

Where you live can affect your earnings due to the demand for work in the area, the cost of living, and other regional factors. The following list shows the top five highest-paying states by average annual IT manager salary[5].

• California: $217,030 

• New York: $213,930 

• Washington: $207,390

• New Jersey: $205,120

• Delaware: $196,630 

Additionally, some cities and their metropolitan areas may have higher earnings than others based on the cost of living or the number of positions for IT managers. You can earn more if you live in these areas or are willing to relocate.

For example, the San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Santa Clara metropolitan area of California pays IT managers an average annual income of $255,830, more than any other area in the country. The San Francisco, Oakland, and Hayward area follows with an average annual income of $237,480 [5]. However, before relocating, remember that places with higher compensation typically require a higher cost of living.

Read more: What Is a Good Salary?

Industry

IT managers can earn more money in specific industries than others. According to the BLS, working in information can earn you a median annual income of $183,370, while positions in manufacturing can earn you $175,540  [1].

Glassdoor lists the following five industries as some of the highest-paying for IT managers. Note that these figures represent base pay only and do not include additional pay, such as bonuses and commission [3]:

• Financial services: $131,127

• Aerospace and defense: $124,045

• Manufacturing: $118,914

• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology: $118,649

• Energy, mining, and utilities: $118,711

Related job titles

Other positions in the industry can help you gain additional experience before becoming an IT manager. You might also consider them if you're currently an IT manager looking for a job change or want to explore new interests. 

1. Computer network architect

Average annual wage: $129,840 [6]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2023 to 2033):  13 percent [6]

Educational requirements: Requirements will vary by employer. Many require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a computer-related field. Some may have no stipulation regarding degrees, and some may require a master's degree. 

A computer network architect plans and implements data communications networks for companies and organizations. In this role, you might create layouts for new networks, test them to ensure they're implemented correctly and perform hardware, software, and network upgrades as needed. 

Read more: A Guide to Network Architectures

2. Computer systems administrator

Average annual wage: $84,614 [7]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2023 to 2033): 17 percent [8]

Educational requirements: Most employers require you to have a bachelor's degree in IT, engineering, or another computer-oriented field. Some may require a master's degree. 

A computer systems administrator handles the daily operations of an organization's computer networks. That might include installing hardware and software, maintaining system security, and upgrading as needed. 

Job outlook

According to the BLS, IT manager positions will grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the national average for all occupations. Additionally, BLS expects the industry to have 54,700 job openings on average each year from 2023 to 2033 [8].

The need for IT managers will continue to grow as companies and organizations grow their technology needs. The increasing prevalence of cybersecurity issues also necessitates more personnel to protect employers’ critical computer systems.

Getting started with Coursera

As an IT manager, you'll oversee your employer's IT department, manage its staff, and ensure smooth operation. This job combines IT knowledge with workplace skills like leadership, lifelong learning, and attention to detail.  

Continue learning and growing IT management skills with courses such as Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals Specialization with IBM on Coursera. You can learn about software management, types of networks, and how to troubleshoot issues as an IT manager. Upon completion, gain a shareable Professional Certificate to include in your resume, CV, or LinkedIn profile.