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The IT Job Outlook Report
Are you looking to break into the IT field or hoping to expand your current computing capabilities?
If you answered yes then you’ve come to the right place. All across the United States the job outlook for computer-related positions is on the upturn and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) it doesn’t appear this will change much until 2020 or beyond.
Throughout many portions of the U.S., Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst ranks as the “in” job with projected growth over 50% in some regions. On the other hand, Computer Programmer is one of the few positions to show negative growth but only in a handful of states. This is just a small sample of the information you can glean from this report. No matter where you may live from Alaska to Florida, we have compiled the IT outlook for each state in the U.S. and have broken down which career paths are the most profitable in each. Whether you focus on cyber security or deal with technical support, we will show you where you can go to make the most out of your in-demand skill set.
Before we move into the state-by-state run down, here are the national rankings for IT positions within the U.S.
States with the Highest Number of Computer Occupation Jobs
California – 471,890 IT Jobs
Texas – 292,370 IT Jobs
New York – 216,150 IT Jobs
Virginia – 199,040 IT Jobs
Florida – 161,070 IT Jobs
States with the Highest Concentration of Jobs
Virginia
D.C.
Washington
Massachusetts
Maryland
Top Paying States
D.C.
Virginia
California
Massachusetts
Maryland
Metropolitan Areas with the Highest Employment Level
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metropolitan Division
New York-White Plains-Wayne, NY-NJ Metropolitan Division
Seattle-Bellevue-Everett, WA Metropolitan Division
Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL Metropolitan Division
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA NECTA Division
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale, CA Metropolitan Division
Dallas-Plano-Irving, TX Metropolitan Division
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta, GA
Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown, TX
The BLS’ Computer-Related Occupations
According to the BLS, job growth for Computer Occupations will increase 22% by the year 2020. This increase translates to the addition of roughly 778,300 new jobs, and thousands more will be opened due to replacements.
So what types of jobs will this include?
The BLS also breaks down Computer Occupations into five broad categories of job types. We have outlined each of them below with a brief description of the specific job titles that would fall under each.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Their primary role is to create and find new uses for technologies in the fields of healthcare, business, science and more. In order to break into this profession a Ph.D. is a must and competition is fierce as it is one of the lowest employed computer-related occupations. Across the nation, only about 28,200 workers are employed under this category and receive an average annual salary of $100,660. Employment is also only expected to increase 19% over the next few years but with the already low number of professionals employed in this field it won’t translate into much.
Computer and Information Analysts
Computer Systems Analysts and Information Security Analysts fall under this category with expected job increases of 22% through 2020 and average annual salaries of $77,740 and $75,660, respectively. For Computer Systems Analysts, their main priority is to study an organization’s current computer infrastructure and make recommendations for increasing operating efficiency from both a business and an IT perspective. On the other hand, Information Security Analysts concentrate predominantly on increasing a firm’s security and preventing information leaks from cyber-attacks.
Software Developers and Programmers
This category encompasses Computer Programmers, Web Developers, and Software Developers. These are the creators behind everything online from websites to programs to applications. They write the codes which build out the programs we need in order to operate easily online. In the U.S., on average, Computer Programmers earn $71,380, Web Developers earn $75,660 and Software Developers earn around $90,530; these fields are also witnessing 12%, 22% and 30% job increases, respectively.
Database and Systems Administrators and Network Architects
Database Administrators, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, and Computer Network Architects are all housed under this category. All of these roles work together to create an efficient online network for an organization to store and communicate information. Database Administrators are witnessing average salaries of $73,490 with job increases at 31%; Network and Computer Systems Administrators are earning $69,160 and witnessing 28% increases; and finally, Computer Network Architects earn $75,660 and jobs are growing at a rate of 22%.
Computer Support Specialists
These include both Computer User and Network Support Specialists and they deal primarily with non-technical users who are having computer problems in either a help-desk or technical support role. On average, they earn $46,260 a year and job growth for these positions is expected to be around 18% through 2020.
So What’s Next?
Now that you know each type of computer-related occupation out there, you are probably waiting to hear where you should take the career path you’ve probably already mentally decided on. Well, each job title and state are better for some things than others, which is just the nature of the U.S. job market. It is never really a cut and dry subject but we can give you some very close approximations. Whether you want to know which Computer Occupation you should pursue in your state or you are in an IT role now and want to know where you can make the most money from your skills we will tell you everything you need to know. So relax and take a few minutes to enjoy our state-by-state breakdown of the U.S. IT Job Market.
1. Alabama IT Jobs and Salaries
Alabama’s average salary income for all computer-related occupations is slightly below the national average at $74,764. However, based on the state’s lower than average cost of living index this salary offers professionals living and working within the state a relatively higher amount of disposable income.
While the opportunity to make the most of your yearly earnings in Alabama is desirable all around, salaries for certain occupations in the state standout even more. Computer and Information Research Scientists earn above average incomes at $104,280 per year. Additionally, in the Anniston-Oxford area of Alabama, Computer Programmers report average annual salaries of $109,740[1] which is $30,000 above the national average for this occupation, and will go far in the state of Alabama.
Alabama’s predictions for job growth over the next 5 years, places a number of Computer-related occupations on the state’s list of high demand professions. These job titles include:
Computer Software Engineers
Applications, Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts
Computer Systems Analysts
Computer Software Engineers
Systems Software Developers
Of these, Applications Software Engineer is considered the overall number one occupation on the high demand list based on growth rate, annual job openings and wage criteria. Computer Systems Analysts are predicted to have the most openings for the entire Computer and Mathematical Occupations group at an average of 380 annual job openings in Alabama through 2018.
Alabama’s Average Cost of Living Index: 92.78[2]
Anniston-Calhoun, AL – 91.2
Auburn-Opelika, AL – 98.9
Birmingham, AL – 90.8
Decatur-Hartselle, AL – 89.2
Dothan, AL – 89.8
Florence, AL – 90.2
Huntsville, AL – 91.2
Mobile, AL – 92.7
Montgomery, AL – 99.2
Tuscaloosa, AL – 94.6
2. Alaska Information Technology Jobs and Salaries
Alaska’s reported annual salary for all computer-related positions averages less than the national rate at $74,440. In terms of living costs, this salary is even lower than it should be for living comfortably in the state, in comparison to regions which report more average living indexes.
While all computer-related positions are relatively close to the national salary averages, in the Railbelt non-metropolitan area of Southwest Alaska, Computer Programmers are making around $10,000 more each year than their peers in the major cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks at $86,850 per year. This average annual salary is also above the national average of $78,260.
Alaska is also forecasted to experience high growth and an increase in job openings for a number of its computer-related positions within the state. The following positions are expected to experience the highest growth rates over the next 10 years:
Computer and Information Systems Managers
10-15% growth
130-229 new job openings
Computer Programmers
Less than 10% growth
130-229 new job openings
Computer Systems Analysts
15-21% growth
130-229 new job openings
Computer User Support Specialists
10-15% growth
Over 300 new job openings
Systems Analysts
15-21% growth
130-229 new job openings
Software Developer, Applications
15-21% growth
80-129 new job openings
Software Developer, Systems Software
15-21% growth
Less than 80 new job openings
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
10-15% growth
130-229 new job openings
Alaska’s Average Cost of Living Index: 132.75
Anchorage, AK – 128.4
Fairbanks, AK – 137.4
Juneau, AK – 136.5
Kodiak, AK – 128.7
3. Arizona IT Salaries and Jobs
Arizona’s economy continues to improve slowly across all industries. All sectors are expected to witness an increase in job openings through next year; however, this growth will be steady but slow moving. The only computer-related job in Arizona that is doing notably well is that of Computer Specialists.
While Computer Specialists are still witnessing salary averages lower than the national average, job openings for this position are forecasted for 4,263 new openings by the end of next year. Additionally, Arizona boasts the third highest concentration of Computer Network Support Specialists across the nation with the highest areas of concentration being in the Phoenix-Mesa-Glendale, Tucson, and Lake Havasu-Kingman regions.
Just as job demand sits at below average rates throughout the state, salaries for these positions also equal less than the national level at $76,653 per year. However, at a cost of living index above the nation’s average, this salary is even lower than what the market demands to maintain a typical standard of living. Realistically the average should be closer to $80,000 per year, to offer a competitive opportunity within this field. Overall, the lack of growth and low salaries does little to draw appeal to Arizona’s computer-based job market.
Arizona’s Average Cost of Living Index: 103.81
Flagstaff, AZ – 114.9
Phoenix, AZ – 100.7
Sierra Vista, AZ – 97.9
Tucson, AZ – 96.5
Yuma, AZ – 101.2
Lake Havasu City, AZ – 111.8
Prescott-Prescott Valley, AZ – 103.7
4. Arkansas IT Salaries
Arkansas professionals in computer-related positions earn an average of $16,000 less per year than the national average for the same job roles. However, since the state is averaging ten points below the average index for living costs this salary still offers a competitive opportunity for professionals entering the area.
While Arkansas currently does not hold a high employment share of the total U.S. computer-related job market, these numbers are forecasted to grow significantly throughout the ten year period from 2006-2016.
The breakdown below includes the following growth percent over ten years and the annual number of new jobs that translates to per occupation.
Computer Programmers
12.6% growth
128 new jobs per year
Computer Software Engineers, Applications
60.8% growth
117 new jobs per year
Computer Support Specialists
23.2% growth
207 new jobs per year
Computer Systems Analysts
50% growth
165 new jobs
Database Administrators
41.3% growth
48 new jobs per year
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
35.7% growth
85 new jobs per year
Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts
74.5% growth
144 new jobs per year
In terms of job availability, Arkansas is definitely expanding the number of computer-related job roles that the state offers. However, despite high growth percentages, this only translates to approximately 894 new jobs available each year throughout the entire state and for all computer-related occupations. Additionally, these jobs are predominantly concentrated in the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO area.
If relocation to the Fayetteville area of Arkansas sounds appealing to you and you don’t expect to earn a paycheck close to the national average for your job role (mind you it will still be close to double the state’s average annual salary for all occupations) then you may be able to find the opportunities you are seeking in America’s “Natural State.”
Arkansas’ Average Cost of Living Index: 90.67
Conway, AR – 86.6
Fayetteville, AR – 92.1
Jonesboro, AR – 88.9
Fort Smith, AR – 86.1
Hot Springs, AR – 93.8
Little Rock-North Little Rock, AR – 96.5
5. California IT Jobs and Salaries
Sunny California is one of the best places for computer-related jobs in the entire United States. Most of the regions in the state boast above average salaries for all computer occupations. Additionally, the pay rates are, on average, competitive to the state’s high cost of living. California is simply the state to beat in terms of both pay and number of positions available as it consistently makes the BLS’ top 5 list of the best states for each computer-based occupation.
California is among the top five for the most number of jobs for the following job categories:
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer Systems Analysts
Information Security Analysts
Computer Programmers
Software Developers, Applications
Software Developers, Systems Software
Web Developers
Database Administrators
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Computer Network Architects
Computer User Support Specialists
Computer Network Support Specialists
The state, particularly in the Silicon Valley region, is also among the top five highest paying states for the following occupations:
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Information Security Analysts
Computer Programmers
Software Developers, Applications
Software Developers, Systems Software
Database Administrators
Computer Network Architects
Computer User Support Specialists
Computer Network Support Specialists
California is also number three in the nation for the highest concentration of Systems Software Developers. As far as the state’s job opportunities go, the metropolitan areas of Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale, CA and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA are numbers six and eight in the U.S. respectively for the highest number of computer-related employment positions.
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA; San Francisco-San Mateo-Redwood City, CA; and Oakland-Fremont-Hayward, CA are the number one, two and five top paying metropolitan areas in the nation, respectively. Professionals in a computer-related occupation working in these California regions will earn an average annual salary of $108,610, $100,720 or $94,880.
In other words, if you want any type of computer-related job and don’t mind the sunshine and beaches of the west coast then California will definitely have some well-paying options to provide you with.
California’s Average Cost of Living Index: 132.7
Bakersfield, CA – 103.4
Fresno, CA – 117.3
Oakland, CA – 139.1
Palm Spring, CA – 121.8
Riverside City, CA – 112.5
Sacramento, CA – 116.2
San Diego, CA – 132.3
San Francisco, CA – 164
San Jose, CA – 156.1
Truckee-Nevada County, CA – 146.9
Los Angeles – Long Beach, CA – 136.4
Orange County, CA – 146.4
6. Colorado Information Technology Jobs and Salaries
If you are a Computer Systems Analyst then the beautiful state of Colorado is for you, more specifically the non-metropolitan area of North Central Colorado. In this particular area Computer Systems Analysts earn an annual salary of $107,640[3], which is $23,840 over the national average. Additionally, 1,702 new Computer Systems Analyst positions were added in July 2013 alone.
During the period from July 1-31, 2013 the state of Colorado also added 2,308 Network and Computer Systems Administrator positions, 2,052 Software Developers-Applications, 1,810 Computer User Support Specialists and 1,757 Web Developers
Colorado is doing relatively well all around in terms of adding computer-related positions and offering competitive salaries. Even more so since the state’s overall cost of living settles around the national average. In addition to this, the state’s unemployment rate is also lower than the national average; this combination of factors all amounts to a very a desirable place to look for a computer-related career.
If you are still not convinced that Colorado can offer the career opportunities you want, then hopefully these statistics will help. Colorado is one of the BLS’ top five paying states for Computer Systems Analysts, Computer Programmers and Computer User Support Specialists.
It is also one of the top five states for the highest employment shares of Applications Software Developers, Network and Computer Systems Administrators and Computer Support Specialists.
Colorado’s Average Cost of Living Index: 100.7
Denver, CO – 103.2
Grand Junction, CO – 98.3
Gunnison, CO – 110
Loveland, CO – 91
Pueblo, CO – 85.6
Colorado Springs, CO – 92.8
Glenwood Springs, CO – 124
7. Connecticut IT Job Outlook
This state is another great choice for IT professionals looking to earn the most for their talents. According to the BLS, Connecticut is one of the five top paying states for these job positions:
Computer Systems Analysts
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Computer User and Support Specialist
Computer Network Support Specialist
Additionally, the state has several regions that pay their computer-related employees well above the national averages and is competitive with the state’s high living costs. These positions will typically earn $10,000-$32,000 more to be exact.
Below is an outline of the metropolitan areas with the highest paid jobs and the average annual salaries they offer.
Bridgeport – Stamford – Norwalk, CT
Computer Systems Analysts – $116,560[4]
Software Developers, Applications – $103,420
Network and Computer Systems Administrators – $92,760
Computer User Support Specialists – $61,120
Computer Network Support Specialists – $74,430[5]
Danbury, CT
Computer Systems Analysts – $98,030[6]
Software Developers, Systems Software – $124,470[7]
Hartford – West Hartford – East Hartford, CT
Computer User Support Specialists – $62,430
Computer Network Support Specialists – $77,460
Norwich – New London, CT
Information Security Analysts – $ 104,410
Worchester, MA-CT
Software Developers, Systems Software – $123,530[8]
Computer Network Architects – $105,380
If the 6-digit salaries readily available up in New England weren’t enough to get you excited about taking your career to Connecticut then keep this in mind, the state of Connecticut is expecting career growth throughout the IT job sector to move faster than average until 2020. They are hiring hundreds of Programmers, Applications Software Engineers, Systems Software Engineers, Computer Support Specialists, Computer Systems Analysts, Database Administrators, Network and Computer Systems Administrators and Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts each year for the next seven years.
The opportunity and the money is there no matter what your specific computer-related career path is, you just need to take advantage of it!
Connecticut’s Average Cost of Living Index: 130.27
Hartford, CT – 121.8
Stamford, CT – 146.9
New Haven, CT – 122.1
8. Delaware Information Technology Job Outlook
The Delaware metropolitan areas of Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD and Wilmington, DE-MD-NJ are the places to look for computer-related occupations in this state. The above average salaries and job opportunities available in these urban locations are what bring up Delaware’s Dover and Sussex County areas to give the state overall high rankings for securing a computer-related profession.
Delaware is one of the top five highest paying for the following job roles:
Information Security Analysts – $98,380
Software Developers, Applications – $100,210
Database Administrators – $87,280
Additionally, the state reports high wages and good to excellent job availability in most computer occupations; the precise rankings are listed below:
Computer Information Research Scientists
High wages
Fair job availability
Computer Systems Analysts
High wages
Excellent job availability
Information Security Analysts
High wages
Good job availability
Computer Programmers
High wages
Fair job availability
Software Developers, Applications
High wages
Excellent job availability
Software Developers, Systems Software
High wages
Good job availability
Web Developers
High wages
Good job availability
Database Administrators
High wages
Good job availability
Network and Computer Systems Administrators and Network Architects
High wages
Excellent job availability
Computer User and Network Support Specialists
Above average wages
Excellent job availability
In the state’s primary metropolitan areas job growth and high wages are readily available for professionals in the IT field. In addition, average living costs in this state increases the overall buying power these already high salaries offer, allowing computer-based workers to build a nice living throughout the state of Delaware.
Delaware’s Average Cost of Living Index: 102.45
Dover, DE – 99.7
Wilmington, DE – 105.2
9. Florida IT Jobs and Salaries
The state of Florida is expected to witness annual occupational growth of around 1.55% between 2012 and 2020. The majority of the state’s computer related occupations will experience growth rates above this at an average of 1.78% per year. The top three occupations forecasted for the highest percent changes each year are:
Network and Computer Systems Administrators and Architects – 2.72%
Database Administrators – 2.70%
Systems Software Developers – 2.55%
Computer Support Specialists are forecasted to open the greatest number of available new jobs at 1,360 new positions each year throughout the state. Florida is also on the U.S.’ top five list for having the greatest number for jobs for the following occupations:
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
Database Administrators
Computer Network Architects
Computer User Support Specialists
Computer Network Support Specialists
Additionally, the state has the second largest concentration of Computer Network Architects in the nation. That being said, Network Architects also make, on average, $25,000 less than the national average salary for this profession at $69,230 per year, but this can still offer a competitive rate based on the state’s cost of living. However, only seven of the twenty-three division areas in the state actually report average annual salaries above this with the highest paying area being the Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, FL region at $80,010 annually. The lowest paid area for Network Architects in Florida is in the Northwest non-metropolitan area of the state where earnings average $47,290 per year.
The average salary in in the Sunshine State for all computer-based occupations stands at $73,647, slightly above average in regards to the state’s living costs. In addition, a few occupations really standout in certain areas, by earning significantly more than average. If you really want to make the move to Florida and increase your disposable income as much as possible then pursue a position as a Computer Systems Analyst. This job is expected to grow at 1.89% annually and will equate to 865 new jobs per year. The following Florida areas are the best to look for openings in this particular occupation:
North Port – Bradenton – Sarasota, FL
$109,420[9] annually
Port St. Lucie, FL
$107,900[10] annually
Tallahassee, FL
$98,020[11] annually
Crestview – Fort Walton Beach – Destin
$96,720 annually
Miami – Miami Beach – Kendall Metropolitan Division
$90,130 annually
West Palm Beach – Boca Raton – Boynton Beach Metropolitan Division
$89,430 annually
Orlando – Kissimmee – Sanford
$88,890 annually
Miami – Fort Lauderdale – Pompano Beach
$87,970 annually
One final note on Florida’s IT job outlook, if you are a skilled Computer and Information Research Scientist and want to relocate to Florida then check out the opportunities in the Palm Beach – Melbourne – Titusville area. This area boasts the highest concentration of Computer and Information Research Scientists in the state, granted there are only 665 scientists in the state total and growth is low at 18 new jobs per year, but the pay is significantly above average at $130,520[12] per year. If you have the skills, enjoy the heat and the beach, and wouldn’t mind a 6-figure paycheck then the opportunity here is perfect for you.
Florida’s Average Cost of Living Index: 99.48
Bradenton, FL – 95.8
Gainesville, FL – 99.8
Jacksonville, FL – 92.9
Orlando, FL – 97.8
Sarasota, FL – 101.5
Tampa, FL – 92.4
Cape Coral-Fort Myers, FL – 95.6
Fort Lauderdale, FL – 115.7
Miami-Dade County, FL – 106
Panama City, FL – 99.4
Vero Beach – Indian River, FL – 97.4
10. Georgia IT Job and Salary Information
If you want to make the move to Georgia, there is really only one region that should command your attention and that is the state’s Atlanta – Sandy Springs – Marietta metropolitan area. This area is number nine in the country for the highest IT employment levels and it is what brings up the rest of the state’s below average employment shares for computer-related occupations. This particular area also boasts salaries that are near or slightly higher than average for all of their computer-based jobs. The remainder of the state is reporting annual salaries that are predominantly lower than average, but extremely competitive based on the state’s living cost index.
While the salaries and the amount of jobs per location are below the typical rates, Georgia is forecasted to experience computer-related job growth above the state’s 1.1% annual average employment growth from 2010 through 2020. Of the expected growth, the state predicts 42% of all added jobs in computer-related occupations will stem predominantly from industry growth. However, some occupations such as Computer Programmer, Information Security Analyst, Web Developer, Computer Systems Analyst, Computer Support Specialist, and Network Architect will witness openings predominantly due to job replacements. The remaining computer-related positions should witness steady annual growth through 2020.The projected percentage increases and jobs added annually are identified below for these occupations.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
0.9% growth
20 jobs added
Software Developers, Applications
1.6% growth
350 jobs added
Software Developers, Systems Software
2.3% growth
320 jobs added
Database Administrators
2.2% growth
150 jobs added
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
2.5% growth
470 jobs added
As previously stated, the majority of all computer-related occupations in the state report salaries relatively close to the national average, making the profit potential in Georgia’s economy comparatively high to other states that are closer to the national average cost index. The one major exception to this is that Computer User Support Specialists throughout the state are, in some cases, significantly underpaid compared to the national average for this occupation; up to $17,000 below. So if this happens to be your field of work, Georgia may not be your best bet in terms of increasing your buying power by a significant percent.
Georgia’s Average Cost of Living Index: 92.28
Albany, GA – 90.1
Americus, GA – 88.3
Atlanta, GA – 95.6
Douglas, GA – 88.6
Marietta, GA – 94.8
Savannah, GA – 93.5
Valdosta, GA – 94.1
Augusta-Aiken, GA-SC – 93.2
11. Hawaii Information Technology Jobs and Salaries
While the idea of living in Hawaii may sound wonderful, if you’re in any computer-related profession it may not be the best move for you. Throughout the state, Computer and Information Research Scientists are the only profession to be earning a salary equivalent to the national average. Every other computer-related profession earns, on average, $10,000 less per year than their peers in the same profession.
Additionally, these jobs are experiencing average annual growth at 1.8% but when the occupation concentration for computer-related jobs is already very low this only translates to an average of 35 new positions available per year for each job title. Between 2010 and 2020 Hawaii expects to only add an additional 1,540 new computer-related positions across the state for all the specific job roles combined.
Unless wages increase to offer a more competitive impact against Hawaii’s exorbitant living costs then this state should just be avoided in terms of moving your computer-related career to its shores.
Hawaii’s Average Cost of Living Index: 165.7
Honolulu, HI – 165.7
12. Idaho IT Job and Salary Outlook
If you are a Computer Information Research Scientist then you should probably avoid Idaho all together because this position is hard to come by in the state and availability is slim to none. Overall, the salaries in Idaho are well below the national averages for all computer-related positions, yet in some cases, they are competitive in comparison to the state’s cost of living.
Additionally, these occupations are identified by the Idaho Department of Labor’s 2010-2020 Long-Term Occupation Projection Report as being “Hot Jobs,” which are marked by high growth, high pay and job abundance. Through 2020, it is expected that each of these positions will witness anywhere between 1.5% and 3.0% annualized growth. This projection should lead to computer-related positions comprising 4.02% of the overall Idaho job market in 2020, an increase of 0.11 percentage points from 2010.
However, as previously stated, the salaries are much lower than average and this is true for both the major cities in the state, such as Boise, and the non-metropolitan areas. A competitive average salary for computer-related occupations in terms of living costs for the state would be around $60,710. However, even in Boise, professionals can expect to earn $10,000-$25,000 less than the national averages for annual salaries in the same positions, making some occupations less desirable.
So if you are planning to move your computer-related career to Idaho, understand that despite it being a growing industry the pay available in the state will be, in some cases, much lower than necessary.
Idaho’s Average Cost of Living Index: 93.1
Boise, ID – 97.2
Idaho Falls, ID – 90.6
Twin Falls, ID – 91.5
13. Illinois IT Jobs and Salaries
Illinois is definitely the land of opportunity for computer-related job seekers. Employment projections from 2010 until 2020 are expected to increase, on average, 19.79% for all computer-related occupations, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security’s report. This translates to the addition of 25,867 new computer-related employment opportunities over a ten-year period. This is a huge leap from the state’s average 8.63% increase across all occupations.
The job areas with the highest short-term forecasted growth for the period between 2011 and 2013 includes:
Software Developers, Applications
646 new jobs
3.53% change
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
466 new jobs
3.53% change
Software Developers, Systems Software
507 new jobs
3.29% change
The occupations with the highest projected long-term growth for the period between 2010 and 2020 includes:
Software Developers, Applications
5,519 new jobs
30.87% change
Software Developers, Systems Software
3,657 new jobs
24.38% change
Database Administrators
1,161 new jobs
24.99% change
Additionally, the salaries available for all computer-related occupations are within $10,000 of the national averages, very competitive to not only the national rate but to the state’s below average cost of living index. The metropolitan area of Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL is also number four on the United States’ list of states with the highest computer-related job employment and Illinois is fourth in the country for the highest number of Computer Programmer positions.
The positions and decent pay are readily available throughout Illinois; there’s no doubt that professionals will find a position they want and the competitive pay they need throughout this state.
Illinois’ Average Cost of Living Index: 96.15
Champaign-Urbana, IL – 96.9
Chicago, IL – 116.9
Danville, IL – 91.1
Decatur, IL – 91.4
Galesburg, IL – 93
Peoria, IL – 96.3
Quincy, IL – 95.5
Rockford, IL – 92.4
Springfield, IL – 85.8
Joliet-Will County, IL – 102.2
14. Indiana IT Jobs and Salaries Report
The state of Indiana reports average salaries around $10,000-$12,000 less than the national averages for the same computer-related occupations. However, these numbers are not too far off base since the state’s overall average of $71,912 is competitive for the state’s cost of living and will allow for a greater amount of disposable income in comparison to the national average.
Indiana’s Department of Labor reports that several Information Technology positions are among the state’s hot 50 jobs based on projected wages and demand in 2020. These jobs include:
Computer Software Engineer
1.9% growth
274 new jobs added per year
Computer Systems Analyst
2.1% growth
163 new jobs added per year
Network Systems and Data Communications Administrator
2.6% growth
164 new jobs added per year
Information Security Analyst Network Architect
2.6% growth
123 new jobs added per year
Database Administrator
3.3% growth
58 new jobs added per year
The one career path that is significantly lower across all Indiana counties and cities is that of Web Developers. This path is witnessing upwards of $30,000 less in pay each year than in other areas around the United States, who make on average $66,100 annually. The top four lowest paid Indiana areas for this occupation are located in:
Anderson, IN – $32,500
Bloomington, IN – $36,330
Evansville, IN-KY – $37,850
Lafayette, IN – $38,730
The state identifies the computer occupations field to be one of its fastest growing positions and the numbers do reflect significant growth is truly in-store throughout the next several years. The only thing to be wary about while job hunting is whether or not the salaries offered in these positions offer a competitive pay for the area’s specific cost of living index.
Indiana’s Average Cost of Living Index: 92.96
Elkhart-Goshen, IN – 94
Evansville, IN – 96.2
Indianapolis, IN – 87.2
Lafayette, IN – 98.2
Muncie, IN – 91
Richmond, IN – 90.8
Fort Wayne-Allen, IN – 94.4
South Bend, IN – 91.9
15. Iowa IT Jobs and Salaries
Computer-related occupations in Iowa are reporting annual average salaries at $12,500 below the national level, however, this is still above the expected annual average relative to Iowa’s cost of living index. The state is also forecasted to grow, on average, 1.7% annually in this field, which equates to the opening of 475 new jobs each year. The majority of computer-related positions in Iowa are, unsurprisingly, concentrated in the state’s metropolitan areas. The areas with the highest above average share of employment include:
Cedar Rapids
Des Moines – West Des Moines
Dubuque
Omaha – Council Bluffs, NE-IA
Additionally, there are a few hidden gems in the state that report annual average salaries well above the national average. The Des Moines area boasts an average salary of $100,380[13] for its Computer Network Architect positions. Computer Network Architects in the Davenport – Moline – Rock Island area also earn slightly above average paychecks for their work at $97,630 per year. The Sioux City area also shows that their Applications Software Developers earn significantly above average at $126,180[14] annually.
Similarly, there is also one stand-out low earner throughout the state. In Ames, IA, Software Developers, Systems Software are earning salaries drastically below the national and state averages. Their $35,510[15] annual paycheck is close to $60,000 below the national rate for this position. Additionally, this is significantly below even the state’s average entry salary for this line of work which averaged to be $56,860 in 2012.
When it comes to finding work in the state this is undoubtedly one area and occupation to avoid. As far as the remaining areas and jobs, only expect average paychecks in terms of the region’s living indexes, but if you’re fine with that then Iowa wouldn’t be a bad option to consider.
Iowa’s Average Cost of Living Index: 94.04
Ames, IA – 96.8
Burlington, IA – 97
Cedar Rapids, IA – 92
Dubuque, IA – 95.9
Iowa City, IA – 96.2
Des Moines, IA – 90.9
Mason City, IA – 89.1
Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA – 91.7
Davenport-Moline-Rock Is, IA-IL – 96.8
16. Kansas Computer Related Jobs and Salaries
Computer-related occupations throughout the U.S. state of Kansas will typically earn $10,000 less than the national average. However, this is relative to the state’s below average living expenses and it shouldn’t deter professionals from coming to the state to work.
In fact, computer-related positions are among the state’s fastest growing jobs and boast some of the highest earnings for the region. In the latest Kansas Occupational Outlook report, the state is forecasted to grow its computer occupations by 17.3% during the period from 2010-2020, equaling 10,724 new and replacement positions throughout the state.
Additionally, in the 2008-2018 report, the state named Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts as the number one occupation for the highest percent change in employment at a 53.4% increase in jobs. This percentage equals the addition of roughly 1,410 jobs over the ten year period. Applications Software Engineers also made the list at number nine with a 34.1% increase and the addition of 1,120 jobs.
When it comes to searching for positions within Kansas, no matter the occupation, the Kansas City MO-KS area is the best to look. This area contains 28.6% of the state’s total population and it is expected to be the fastest in occupation growth through at least 2018. Every other area of Kansas reports below average employment shares for computer-related occupations, so it is suggested to begin your job search in this Kansas City area where you will find the greatest number of available jobs and the highest salaries in the state.
Kansas’ Average Cost of Living Index: 91.39
Hays, KS – 89.4
Hutchinson, KS – 94
Lawrence, KS – 94.6
Manhattan, KS – 95
Salina, KS – 86.9
Topeka, KS – 91.8
Wichita, KS – 91.8
Dodge City, KS – 89.3
Garden City, KS – 89.7
17. Kentucky IT Jobs and Salaries
When it comes to computer-related occupations the state of Kentucky is growing at a rate four percentage points below the national average. The state also reports very low employment shares for all computer-based occupations and salaries average $16,400 below the national average. However, the state’s national average of $63,395 is in line with the state’s low living costs.
Computer-related positions in the state are forecasted to grow 18.68% from 2010 to 2020, significantly above Kentucky’s average employment growth rate of 12.4%. This projection makes the computer-related occupation sector the 5th fastest growing job group throughout the state. Of this group Network and Computer Systems Architects and Administrators forecast the highest percent change at 26.74% and Computer Programmers are the lowest at 9.20%.
The best area to begin looking for a computer-related position in the state of Kentucky is in the Cincinnati – Middletown, OH-KY-IN region. This area contains the highest employment share in the state for computer occupations. In addition it offers the highest average pay for many of its computer-based job roles, including:
Computer Systems Analyst – $86,170
Web Developers – $59,530
Network and Computer Systems Administrators – $69,550
Computer Network Architects – $86,420
Computer User Support Specialists – $46,170
As far as the remaining job titles go, the highest paying areas for each of them are as listed below:
Database Administrators
$80,990 in Elizabethtown, KY
Software Developers, Applications
$93,250[16] in Lexington-Fayette, KY
Information Security Analysts
$85,390 in Louisville-Jefferson County, KY-IN
Computer Programmers
$77,530 in West Kentucky non-metropolitan area
Software Developers, Systems Software
$154,010[17] in West Kentucky non-metropolitan area
Computer Network Support Specialists
$62,000 in West Kentucky non-metropolitan area
Kentucky’s Average Cost of Living Index: 89.26
Covington, KY – 87.8
Lexington, KY – 92.8
Louisville, KY – 87.7
Paducah, KY – 87.3
Bowling Green, KY – 90.7
18. Louisiana Computer Related Jobs and Salary Information
Statewide the employment share for computer-related occupations is significantly lower than the average for the United States. However, several of the computer-related job titles are among the state’s fastest growing occupations for the period between 2010 and 2020. The two with the highest forecasted employment growth are:
Systems Software Developers – 46.4%
Applications Software Developers – 35.3%
Throughout the various regions of Louisiana, the growth rates for these and other computer-related occupations are similarly high. Below is the breakdown of the projected 10-year growth for specific occupations within each region.
Alexandria Region:
Network and Computer Systems Architects and Administrators – 28.8%
Baton Rouge Region:
Software Developers, Applications – 34.3%
Database Administrators – 41.4%
Houma Region:
Network and Computer Systems Administrators –37.0%
Lake Charles Region:
Network and Computer Systems Administrators – 54.7%
Monroe Region:
Computer Systems Analyst – 50.7%
Computer Programmers – 42.6%
Network and Computer Systems Administrators – 39.8%
Computer Support Specialists – 31.7%
New Orleans Region:
Software Developers, Applications – 39.2%
Software Developers, Systems Software – 46.9%
Database Administrators – 33.1%
Shreveport Region:
Network and Computer Systems Administrators – 35%
Software Developers, Applications – 33.6%
Database Administrators – 28.2%
The growth rates for these occupations are above the national average for computer-related occupations and signals a great opportunity for beginning an IT career path. However, any IT professionals interested in starting or moving their careers to the Louisiana area should keep in mind that the average salaries for these positions can be up to $24,000 less than the national average. They still offer a competitive salary for the area’s cost of living though so don’t fret about making your bills just understand that when comparing it to the overall U.S. average a Louisiana paycheck will be relatively low in comparison.
Louisiana’s Average Cost of Living Index: 96.09
Alexandria, LA – 95.1
Baton Rouge, LA – 96.1
Hammond, LA – 95.9
Lafayette, LA – 99.2
Monroe, LA – 92.7
Shreveport-Bossier City, LA – 95.3
Slidell-St. Tammany Parish, LA – 97
Lake Charles, LA – 97.4
19. Maine IT/Computer Jobs and Salaries
When it comes to Maine’s employment outlook for computer-related positions the state holds a low employment share and below average salaries, averaging $66,305. Overall, along with the state’s cost of living, Maine does not present the most desirable outlook for individuals within the computer industry.
Additionally, the state is only expected to witness a 10.1% growth in jobs over the ten-year period between 2010 and 2020. This is more than half the national growth rate for the computer-related jobs sector and equates to only 274 openings per year.
If you still wish to pursue your career in the state of Maine, then it is suggested to look at openings within the Portsmouth, NH-ME area. This region is the highest paid area within the state and has the greatest employment share. Additionally, Information Security Analysts and Computer Network Support Specialists in this region earn $10,000 and $7,000 over the national average respectively. The remaining computer-related occupations earn salaries either just at or below the average.
Maine’s Average Cost of Living Index: 116.5
Portland, ME – 116.5
20. Maryland IT Jobs and IT Salaries
If you want to begin or grow your computer-based career then Maryland is one of the perfect places to do so. As one of the highest paying states for a number of computer-related occupations and home to the number one metropolitan area in the U.S. for the highest computer-based employment, it’s easy to see why Maryland should be a top choice for any IT computer professional.
The average salary in the state is $89,448, which is above the national average. Even more noteworthy though is the fact that several positions average in the six-figures for the state as a whole, including:
Computer and Information Research Scientists – $104,310
Information Security Analysts – $100,230
Software Developers, Applications – $104,740
Software Developers, Systems Software – $108,970
Computer Network Architects – $102,540
Additionally, the state expects this employment sector to witness an overall job growth of 22.9% from 2010 to 2020. This equals the addition of 41,460 new jobs over the same ten year period. Maryland also offers a great opportunity for job-seekers as the state has both the positions available and the high salaries to offer that contribute to a very desirable career. While you can’t really go wrong with any area you choose, below are the top five highest paying regions in the state:
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metropolitan Division – $97,750
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV – $97,040
Bethesda-Rockville-Frederick, MD Metropolitan Division – $92,820
St. Mary’s County, Maryland non-metropolitan area – $92,400
Baltimore-Towson, MD – $89,800
Now that you know Maryland offers overall great pay for its computer professionals find out below which job roles demand the highest salaries and the greatest number of opportunities. For each category below Maryland was named by the BLS as being one of the top five states for each position in terms of highest number of jobs, top salary or highest employment share.
Highest Number of Jobs:
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Top Salary:
Information Security Analyst
Computer Programmers
Software Developers, Applications
Software Developers, Systems Software
Web Developers
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Highest Employment Share:
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Information Security Analysts
Software Developers, Systems Software
Web Developers
Database Administrators
Computer Network Architects
Computer Network Support Specialists
Maryland’s Average Cost of Living Index: 124.95
Baltimore, MD – 119.4
Bethesda-Gaithersburg-Frederick, MD – 130.5
21. Massachusetts IT Job Opportunities and Salary Information
Massachusetts is very similar to Maryland in that job opportunity and high salaries are readily available in the state for professionals working in computer-related occupations. The Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA NECTA Division is the nation’s fifth highest employed metropolitan area for this job sector.
Additionally, the state is experiencing above average growth rates for several of its occupations for the period between 2010 and 2020. Below are the computer-related occupations in Massachusetts with the highest growth percentages:
Computer Programmers – 13.5%
Computer Support Specialists – 21.03%
Software Developers, Applications – 25.65%
Computer Systems Analysts – 28.54%
Information Security Analysts, Web Developers and Computer Network Architects – 29.9%
Network and Computer Systems Administrators – 32.15%
Software Developers, Systems Software – 33.49%
Similar to Maryland, you can’t really go wrong in choosing to take your computer-related profession to Massachusetts. However, you can make the most of it by choosing one of the state’s already high pay and fast growth occupations and applying in the cities that typically pay the most. Below we have broken down the state’s top three occupations and what Massachusetts cities offer the highest pay for them.
Software Developer, Systems Software
Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury, MA-NH NECTA Division – $125,430[18]
Worchester, MA-CT – $123,530[19]
Taunton-Norton-Raynham, MA NECTA Division – $113,710
Nashua, NH-MA NECTA Division – $112,730
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH NECTA Division – $112,170
Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, MA-NH NECTA Division – $110,520
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH – $110,440
Software Developer, Applications
Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury, MA-NH NECTA Division – $121,750[20]
Brockton-Bridgewater-Easton, MA NECTA Division – $105,920[21]
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH NECTA Division – $104,720
Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, MA-NH NECTA Division – $103,360
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH – $103,190
Framingham, MA NECTA Division – $100,030
Computer Network Architect
Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, MA-NH NECTA Division – $118,550
Nashua, NH-MA NECTA Division – $113,790[22]
Framingham, MA NECTA Division – $112,050
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH – $109,790
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH NECTA Division – $109,080
Worchester, MA-CT -$105,380
Additionally, if you don’t want to pursue the career of a Software Developer or Network Architect then take a look at the state’s other top paying careers and find out which hold a high employment share in the state of Massachusetts.
Highest Number of Jobs:
Software Developers, Systems Software
Web Developers
Top Salary:
Software Developers, Applications
Software Developers, Systems Software
Web Developers
Computer Network Architects
Computer User Support Specialists
Computer Network Support Specialists
Highest Employment Share:
Computer Systems Analysts
Software Developers, Applications
Software Developers, Systems Software
Web Developers
Database Administrators
Computer Network Architects
Computer User Support Specialists
As stated at the beginning of this section, Massachusetts offers a great deal of opportunity for professionals in the technology sector. No matter where you are currently at in your career, you will be sure to find the positions you need in this state for the next several years.
Massachusetts’ Average Cost of Living Index: 120.23
Boston, MA – 132.5
Fitchburg-Leominster, MA – 103.3
Framingham-Natick, MA – 134.5
Pittsfield, MA – 110.6
22. Michigan Computer Jobs and Salaries
Michigan reports low employment shares and low wages for all of its computer-related occupations. Detroit is the only area that forecasts average annual salaries for this occupational group in the $70,000 range, which is still lower than both the national average and in relation to the city’s cost of living.
Additionally, the state as a whole is only projected to witness a 13.9% growt