Systems Administrator Salary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The median systems administrator salary in Philadelphia, PA is $88,202 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median and 6.1% above the Pennsylvania state average.
Systems Administrator Pay in Philadelphia: What to Expect (2026)
Philadelphia offers a median systems administrator salary of $88,202, which is $5,088 above the Pennsylvania state average of $83,114. Compared to the national median of $84,810, Philadelphia pays above average for this role.
Philadelphia's cost of living is 102% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for systems administrators in Philadelphia spans from $54,080 at the 10th percentile to $137,280 at the 90th percentile — a $83,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $57,200, while senior systems administrators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $130,000. As a major metro area with a population of 1,603,797, Philadelphia typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Systems Administrator Salary in Philadelphia by Experience
In Philadelphia, an entry-level systems administrator earns around $57,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $130,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Philadelphia, PA
| Percentile | Philadelphia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,680 |
| Median (50th) | $88,202 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,320 |
| 90th Percentile | $137,280 |
Systems Administrator Salary in Other Pennsylvania Cities
How to Become a Systems Administrator in Philadelphia
Education
Most systems administrator positions require a bachelor's degree. Philadelphia and the surrounding Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Systems Administrator Jobs in Philadelphia
Browse open systems administrator positions in Philadelphia, PA: