Computer Network Architects vs Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: Salary Comparison (2024)
Side-by-side salary comparison using 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Which Career Pays More?
Computer Network Architects professionals earn $67,420 more per year than Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters professionals — that's 107.1% higher. At the 90th percentile, Computer Network Architects earns $198,030 compared to $105,150 for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters.
Salary Range Comparison
Computer Network Architects$79,520 – $198,030
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters$40,670 – $105,150
$40,670$198,030
Detailed Salary Comparison
| Percentile | Computer Network Architects | Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,520 | $40,670 | +$38,850 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,120 | $48,860 | +$53,260 |
| Median (50th) | $130,390 | $62,970 | +$67,420 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,440 | $81,900 | +$82,540 |
| 90th Percentile | $198,030 | $105,150 | +$92,880 |
| Mean (Average) | $135,890 | $69,940 | +$65,950 |
Employment Numbers
Computer Network Architects
177,010
employed nationwide
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
455,940
employed nationwide
Top Paying Cities
Best Cities for Computer Network Architects
| City | Median |
|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $174,120 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $166,880 |
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | $163,570 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, CA | $155,480 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | $153,820 |
Best Cities for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
| City | Median |
|---|---|
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | $100,110 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $98,890 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | $97,020 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $90,220 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $87,160 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who earns more: Computer Network Architects or Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
Computer Network Architects professionals earn more, with a median salary difference of $67,420 (107.1% higher) as of 2024 BLS data.
What is the salary range for Computer Network Architects?
Computer Network Architects salaries range from $79,520 (10th percentile) to $198,030 (90th percentile), with a median of $130,390.
What is the salary range for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salaries range from $40,670 (10th percentile) to $105,150 (90th percentile), with a median of $62,970.
How many Computer Network Architects and Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters jobs are there?
There are approximately 177,010 Computer Network Architects positions and 455,940 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters positions nationwide according to 2024 BLS data.
Is it worth switching from Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters to Computer Network Architects?
Career decisions depend on many factors beyond salary. Computer Network Architects has a median salary of $130,390 while Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters earns $62,970. Consider job satisfaction, growth prospects, required education, and work-life balance.
Career Resources
Career Change Resources
Explore tools and guides for transitioning between careers.
Professional Certifications
Find certifications that can boost your earning potential.
Online Degree Programs
Browse accredited online degrees relevant to these careers.
Resume Writing Services
Get professional help crafting a standout resume.
Explore More
Was this data helpful?
Data verified March 2026 · Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS