Systems Administrator Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median systems administrator salary in Columbia, MO is $74,633 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Systems Administrator Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median systems administrator salary of $74,633, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $74,633. Compared to the national median of $84,810, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $74,633 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $84,810 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for systems administrators seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for systems administrators in Columbia spans from $45,760 at the 10th percentile to $116,160 at the 90th percentile — a $70,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $48,400, while senior systems administrators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $110,000. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Systems Administrator Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $48,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $110,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,960 |
| Median (50th) | $74,633 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $116,160 |
Systems Administrator Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Systems Administrator in Columbia
Education
Most systems administrator positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, systems administrator employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Systems Administrator Jobs in Columbia
Browse open systems administrator positions in Columbia, MO: