The salary of information technology varies by location, position, job title and level of education. The highest salaries in IT are typically associated with positions that focus on high-demand areas of expertise, such as cloud computing and cybersecurity. Generally, the highest salaries are associated with senior positions in IT that require significant management skills and experience. Entry-level positions are correlated with lower salaries and may include roles like help desk analyst or IT technician.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median pay for computer and information technology occupations was $97,430 in 2021. This figure is more than double the median wage for all occupations and indicates that IT jobs offer highly competitive compensation.
When it comes to the average hourly wage for directors of information technology, data from the BLS shows that the lowest earners took home about $43 while the highest earners reported earning about $146 an hour. The data is based on a sample of 24,421 job postings that included advertised salary, which provides insight into how much individuals in this role are earning.
For those interested in pursuing a career in information technology, earning an advanced degree is often the first step. Obtaining a master's degree in information technology or a related field can provide the knowledge and training necessary to advance into a leadership position. For those looking for a more hands-on approach to information technology, an associate's degree in IT can be a great start. Franklin University is a leading university for adult learners and offers more than 50 affordable bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees online.
