Database Architects

SOC code 15-1243 · O*NET-SOC 15-1243.00 · Considerable preparation needed · Computer and IT

Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation

Database Architects pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$139,500

a year

Hourly

$67.07

per hour

10th$86,240Median$139,50090th$204,000

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$144,440

$69.44 per hour

Middle 50%

$109,370 – $169,290

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$86,240 – $204,000

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

67,140

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $86,240; $41.46/hr
25th percentile: $109,370; $52.58/hr
Median percentile: $139,500; $67.07/hr
75th percentile: $169,290; $81.39/hr
90th percentile: $204,000; $98.08/hr

What does a database architect do?

Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Develop and document database architectures.
Collaborate with system architects, software architects, design analysts, and others to understand business or industry requirements.
Develop database architectural strategies at the modeling, design and implementation stages to address business or industry requirements.
Design databases to support business applications, ensuring system scalability, security, performance, and reliability.
Develop data models for applications, metadata tables, views or related database structures.
Design database applications, such as interfaces, data transfer mechanisms, global temporary tables, data partitions, and function-based indexes to enable efficient access of the generic database structure.
Develop methods for integrating different products so they work properly together, such as customizing commercial databases to fit specific needs.
Create and enforce database development standards.

How to become a database architect

Most people in this role hold bachelor's degree — 76% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 4 — Considerable preparation needed

Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

See all zone 4 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

Bachelor's Degree76%
Master's Degree14%
Post-Secondary Certificate5%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate5%

Common questions

How much does a database architect earn?

The national median is $139,500 a year. The full range runs from $86,240 at the 10th percentile to $204,000 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a database architect without a degree?

Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 4, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension3.9/5
Critical Thinking3.9/5
Active Listening3.5/5
Speaking3.5/5
Active Learning3.3/5

Knowledge areas

Computers and Electronics4.3/5
Engineering and Technology4.0/5
Design3.7/5
Mathematics3.7/5
English Language3.1/5
Administration and Management2.9/5
Education and Training2.6/5

Transferable strengths: Complex Problem Solving, Judgment and Decision Making, Systems Analysis, Programming, Systems Evaluation.