Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Kansas City in 2025
Last Updated: December 25th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2025, Kansas City's tech job market is booming with 77,000 professionals and 4,400 companies. High-paying roles include software developers earning $98,900-$183,100, and data scientists at an average $112,000. Major players like Garmin and Cerner foster growth. The tech sector contributes $16.5 billion to the local economy, with lower living costs enhancing salary value. Key fields include AI, cybersecurity (17% growth anticipated), and cloud computing. As Kansas City becomes a regional tech hub, mastering Python, AI, and cloud skills can unlock top career opportunities.
Kansas City's tech scene is absolutely crushing it in 2025! The city now has over 77,000 skilled tech professionals, making up 9% of the total economic output.
We've grown 16% faster than other major cities like Chicago and Houston. Local universities are stepping up big time, with UMKC and Rockhurst pumping out tech talent ready to jump into the action.
The city's getting major attention as one of 31 regional tech hubs chosen by the U.S. Commerce Department, which is seriously impressive.
Tech companies are going all in on AI too - KC's spending on artificial intelligence hit $7.8 million last year, and companies like Nebius are investing over $1 billion in new data centers.
The job market's looking sweet for new grads, especially in software development, data science, and cybersecurity. With major players like Garmin headquartered here and tons of startups popping up, there's never been a better time to jump into KC's tech scene.
Let's dive into which tech jobs are paying the big bucks in 2025.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking 2025's Top Tech Jobs in Kansas City
- Software Developer Roles: Kings of Kansas City Tech
- Data Scientist Positions: Unveiling Insights
- Cybersecurity Analysts: Protecting Information
- Artificial Intelligence Specialists: Shaping the Future
- Cloud Engineers: Building Digital Infrastructures
- DevOps Engineers: Bridging Development and Operations
- IT Project Managers: Leading Tech Initiatives
- Mobile App Developers: Innovating on the Go
- Blockchain Developers: Cryptocurrencies and Beyond
- Biotech Technologist: Marrying Biology and Tech
- Conclusion: Opportunities and the Future of Kansas City Tech Jobs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Ranking 2025's Top Tech Jobs in Kansas City
(Up)Kansas City's tech scene is seriously heating up, with a fresh analysis showing over 77,000 tech professionals working across 4,400 companies in 2025. The methodology for ranking these top tech jobs starts with the numbers - cloud architects are leading the pack at $175,000 annually, while product managers and enterprise account executives follow closely at $150,000+.
The tech sector is growing at a 1.4% rate, contributing a massive $16.5 billion to the local economy. Looking at job creation trends, we're expecting 110,000 new tech positions by 2025, with major players like Cerner, Garmin, and T-Mobile driving growth.
The rankings also factor in living costs, which are way lower than other tech hubs, making these salaries stretch even further. We've looked at entry-level positions starting around $50,000 and tracked how they progress to senior roles exceeding six figures.
What's particularly exciting is the steady growth rate of 1.7% in the region, outpacing the national average.
This comprehensive approach ensures we're capturing the full picture of what makes these tech jobs not just high-paying, but also sustainable career choices in Kansas City's evolving tech landscape.
Software Developer Roles: Kings of Kansas City Tech
(Up)Software development in Kansas City is absolutely crushing it in 2025, with over 77,000 tech professionals making their mark across 4,400 companies. Recent salary data shows software developers earning between $98,900 to $183,100, making it one of the most rewarding career paths in the region.
The city's tech sector is growing faster than ever, with a 16% workforce increase since 2021, and major players like Google dropping $1 billion on a new data center that's creating 1,300 fresh jobs.
The job market is seriously strong, with only a 27% decline in openings compared to the national average of 34%.
What's really cool is that the cost of living here is 15% below the national average, meaning your salary goes way further. Companies like Cerner, Garmin, and T-Mobile are constantly on the lookout for talent, especially in AI and cloud computing.
Local tech recruitment platforms are connecting developers with high-quality opportunities, making it easier than ever to land that dream job.
The best part? Entry-level developers can start around $85K, with senior roles hitting well over six figures. With Kansas City recently being named a regional tech hub by the U.S. Commerce Department, the future's looking seriously bright for anyone jumping into software development here.
Data Scientist Positions: Unveiling Insights
(Up)Data science is totally reshaping how Kansas City tech companies make decisions in 2025. Business intelligence and data analytics are driving major growth across industries, with data scientists earning an impressive average salary of $112,000 - that's a 17% jump from last year! These professionals use Python, R, and SQL daily, while machine learning tools like TensorFlow help them predict trends and spot patterns that most people would miss.
The field is seriously taking off, and it's not just about crunching numbers.
Data scientists are now key players in helping companies boost their profits by 15-25% through better decision-making.
They're using everything from predictive analytics to real-time monitoring, and the best part? Companies can't get enough of these skills. Healthcare companies are leading the charge with a 22% growth in data science positions, followed closely by finance and retail sectors.
What's really cool is how data science careers are evolving - they're not just about statistics anymore.
Companies like Cerner, Garmin, and Sprint are investing heavily in their data teams, offering amazing opportunities for anyone interested in tech. The demand is so high that Kansas City firms are planning to hire 25% more data scientists in the next two years.
Whether you're into healthcare tech or finance, there's a data science role waiting for you. Plus, with the variety of projects and the chance to work with cutting-edge tech, it's definitely an exciting time to jump into this field!
Cybersecurity Analysts: Protecting Information
(Up)The cybersecurity scene in Kansas City is absolutely blowing up right now! According to recent market analysis, the city's cybersecurity sector employs nearly 7,000 professionals and is projected to grow by 18% by 2025.
That's huge! With cybercrime costs expected to hit $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, organizations are scrambling to protect their digital assets. The best part? Entry-level positions start around $61,000, with experienced pros making up to $165,000+.
Major institutions like the FBI regional HQ and U.S. Army's Combined Arms Center are driving this growth, contributing to Kansas City's $11.9 billion tech economy.
Companies are going all-in on emerging tech like AI-powered security, quantum encryption, and zero-trust architecture. The cybersecurity landscape keeps evolving with threats like deepfakes - did you know 60% of users encounter fake content online? That's exactly why companies are investing heavily in training programs and advanced security measures.
"These challenges have created insane opportunities for anyone interested in cybersecurity. The field needs people who can handle everything from cloud security to threat detection, and Kansas City's supportive tech community makes it the perfect place to start. With so many companies expanding their security teams and the global shortage of cybersecurity professionals expected to hit 3.5 million by 2025, there's never been a better time to jump into this field. If you're looking for job security and amazing pay, cybersecurity in KC is where it's at!"
- Cybersecurity growth is crucial. Kansas City's cybersecurity sector is expanding rapidly, employing nearly 7,000 professionals.
- High-paying tech jobs abound. Entry-level cybersecurity positions start at $61,000, with seasoned professionals earning up to $165,000.
- Tech institutions drive job growth. Organizations like the FBI and U.S. Army are major contributors to Kansas City's tech economy.
- Evolving cybersecurity threats. Companies are investing in AI-powered security and other advanced measures due to rising cyber threats.
- Opportunity for IT enthusiasts. There's a significant demand for cybersecurity professionals due to a global shortage.
Artificial Intelligence Specialists: Shaping the Future
(Up)Kansas City's AI scene has totally blown up in 2025, with tech salaries reaching up to $210,000 for senior AI specialists.
The city's getting serious about the future, investing over $7.8 million in AI development. Companies like Nebius are making big moves - they're launching their first NVIDIA GPU cluster right here in KC, bringing thousands of state-of-the-art GPUs by early 2025.
But it's not just about the hardware - companies are looking for people who know their stuff in cloud computing, Python, and AI frameworks like TensorFlow.
The job market's getting super competitive with major players like PwC, Garmin, and OpenStore stepping up their game.
SelectQuote's already showing what's possible - they've saved over $1.2 million using their internal AI tools in just two months.
About 38% of companies are planning to use AI to boost productivity in 2025. For anyone looking to break into AI, focusing on machine learning, cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, and solid programming skills is key.
The best part? You don't need to move to Silicon Valley - Kansas City's tech scene is growing 16% faster than in 2021, with more remote positions offering $250,000+ than ever before.
With startups popping up everywhere and established companies expanding their AI teams, it's honestly never been a better time to jump into AI in KC.
Cloud Engineers: Building Digital Infrastructures
(Up)Cloud computing is totally reshaping Kansas City's tech scene in 2025, with tech jobs now making up nearly 10% of the local economy.
Google's recent $1 billion investment in a new data center is seriously upgrading the city's cloud infrastructure, creating over 1,300 new jobs. The growth is real - data security and accessibility are becoming major priorities for businesses of all sizes.
Different cloud networks will be able to communicate with each other by 2025, making it easier for companies to work across multiple platforms.
Cloud engineers here are crushing it with salaries over $120,000 annually, and the demand just keeps growing. If you're looking to break into cloud engineering, you'll need to know your way around Kubernetes, Terraform, and AWS Lambda, plus have solid Python and Java skills.
The cybersecurity aspect is huge too - companies are super serious about protecting their data. It's honestly amazing to see how Kansas City is transforming into this major tech hub, with cloud computing leading the charge.
Whether you're already in tech or thinking about getting started, cloud engineering offers some incredible opportunities right here in KC. The best part? Our cost of living is 15% below the national average, so your salary goes way further here than in other tech hubs.
DevOps Engineers: Bridging Development and Operations
(Up)DevOps Engineers are seriously changing the game in Kansas City's tech world. DevOpsDays KC 2025 is bringing together over 300 attendees from diverse tech sectors, showing just how crucial this role has become.
The field is experiencing massive growth, with entry-level salaries ranging from $93,000 to $168,000, making it one of the most attractive career paths for young tech professionals.
By integrating development and operations teams, DevOps engineers are creating faster, more reliable software delivery processes that companies just can't ignore.
The DevOps toolkit in Kansas City now includes cutting-edge tech that's reshaping how we work.
Industry forecasts predict a 25% annual growth between 2024 and 2032, with AI and machine learning becoming essential parts of the DevOps workflow.
The must-have skills include:
- Container orchestration with Docker and Kubernetes: Mastering these tools is key for managing and optimizing resources.
- Automation through Jenkins and GitLab: Streamlining processes to enhance efficiency.
- Cloud expertise in AWS or Azure: Understanding cloud environments is crucial for modern DevOps.
- Programming skills in Python or Ruby: Coding proficiency is invaluable for scripting and automation.
Major companies across Kansas City are actively seeking DevOps talent to stay competitive and innovative.
The job market is absolutely incredible right now.
Kansas City's DevOps scene is transforming rapidly, with companies focusing on AI-powered automation and enhanced security measures.
Local tech meetups are helping professionals stay current with these changes, and the community is super supportive of newcomers. The median salary hitting $120,000 in 2025 shows just how valued these skills are becoming.
With the upcoming DevOpsDays conference co-located with KCDC 2025, it's clear that Kansas City is becoming a serious player in the DevOps world.
IT Project Managers: Leading Tech Initiatives
(Up)IT Project Managers in Kansas City are crushing it in 2025, with salaries reaching up to $150,000+ for experienced professionals.
These tech leaders do way more than just manage timelines - they're the driving force behind innovation, working with cutting-edge AI tools and cloud computing solutions.
According to fresh data, project managers spend their days coordinating with technical teams, managing budgets, and making sure projects hit their goals without missing deadlines.
Major players like Cerner and Garmin are constantly looking for skilled PMs who can handle multiple projects while keeping everything running smoothly. The most successful managers have a solid mix of technical knowledge and soft skills, with communication skills showing up in 55% of job postings and leadership qualities in 34%.
Kansas City's tech scene is growing faster than ever, with over 77,000 professionals working across 4,400 tech companies. This growth means tons of opportunities - from leading AI implementations to managing cloud infrastructure projects.
The best part? These roles often come with sweet perks, including hybrid work options and comprehensive benefits packages.
For anyone looking to break into tech project management, Kansas City's lower living costs and expanding tech ecosystem make it an ideal place to build a career.
Mobile App Developers: Innovating on the Go
(Up)Mobile app development is transforming Kansas City's tech landscape at an incredible pace. According to recent industry data, global app downloads reached 257 billion in 2023, showing how mobile apps have become essential to daily life.
The surge in demand has made Kansas City a hotspot for app development, with local sports teams like Sporting KC and KC Current launching innovative mobile experiences for fans.
By 2025, 83% of mobile apps will feature AI-driven personalization, completely changing how users interact with their favorite applications.
The city's major tech companies are pushing boundaries in app development, integrating AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics to create smarter, more responsive applications.
The future of mobile apps shows they won't exist in isolation but as part of an interconnected ecosystem of devices and services.
This shift is creating exciting opportunities for developers who can blend technical skills with creative problem-solving. Local firms are particularly focused on developing apps that enhance urban living experiences, from smart city initiatives to improved public transportation interfaces.
As demand grows, mobile app developers in Kansas City are finding themselves at the center of innovation, working on projects that range from sports and entertainment to healthcare and finance.
The integration of AI is expected to reduce development time and costs by 30%, while improving app security and user experience. This evolution in app development is attracting both established tech companies and startups to Kansas City, creating a vibrant ecosystem where developers can build cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of mobile technology.
Blockchain Developers: Cryptocurrencies and Beyond
(Up)As a blockchain developer in Kansas City, the opportunities are absolutely massive right now. Top companies are actively hiring for blockchain roles, with salaries ranging from $90K to $275K annually.
Many positions are remote or hybrid, giving developers flexibility in how they work. Beyond cryptocurrencies, blockchain development has transformed into something much bigger.
Entry-level positions are expanding across various sectors, especially in healthcare data management and supply chain tracking.
Major players like Block (formerly Square) and Chainlink Labs are building serious presence in KC, bringing innovative projects that go way beyond basic crypto applications.
What's really interesting is how blockchain skills have become essential for tech professionals in 2025, alongside AI and cloud computing.
Companies are looking for developers who can work with Ethereum, Python, and smart contracts, but they're also big on problem-solving skills. The blockchain market keeps growing, and KC companies are all about using this tech to make their operations more efficient.
Whether it's securing patient data, tracking products, or creating smart contracts, blockchain developers are making real impact. Companies like Cerner and Garmin are leading the way, showing how blockchain can solve real-world problems.
If you're thinking about getting into blockchain development, now's seriously the perfect time - the field is growing like crazy, and KC is right at the center of it all.
Biotech Technologist: Marrying Biology and Tech
(Up)Kansas City is becoming a powerhouse in biotech, and it's honestly incredible to see how the field is evolving. According to recent job market analysis, KC has emerged as one of the key biotech hubs in the Midwest, joining cities like Indianapolis and St. Louis in driving innovation.
The city's growth is supported by a robust ecosystem of nearly 300 life science companies employing 35,000 people. What's really cool is how Kansas City's biotech scene is transforming healthcare through pharmaceutical development, medical research, and cutting-edge lab innovations.
The opportunities are literally everywhere - from research positions to validation engineering roles, with many offering competitive salaries ranging from $190,000 to $300,000 for senior positions.
Working at places like KCAS Bio, with its 70,000 square feet of modern lab space and collaborative environment, shows how the industry is evolving.
The best part? You don't need decades of experience to make an impact - companies are actively recruiting fresh talent with skills in bioinformatics, machine learning, and lab automation.
With major research organizations like MRIGlobal and the Stowers Institute backing the scene, Kansas City is seriously positioning itself as a career destination for anyone interested in combining tech with biology.
The city's affordable cost of living makes it even better for young professionals like Jennifer Johnson who want to jumpstart their careers in biotech without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: Opportunities and the Future of Kansas City Tech Jobs
(Up)Kansas City's tech scene is seriously taking off in 2025! Over 4,000 companies are generating a massive $25 billion impact on the local economy.
The job market is super exciting, with a projected 20.5% growth rate that's creating tons of opportunities for new tech talent. Companies like PwC and Artera are leading the charge in AI and healthcare tech, while Cloud Architects are seeing starting salaries between $83,200 - $109,900.
The industry needs fresh perspectives - about 20% of Kansas's current tech workforce is approaching retirement, opening doors for newcomers like us. Local tech giants like Weavix and Groover Labs are pushing innovation to new levels, especially in AI and cloud computing.
To get in on this growth, focus on mastering Python, cloud security, and machine learning - these skills are absolute gold right now. The city's got about 20,000 tech jobs waiting to be filled, and with companies throwing competitive salaries and amazing benefits at qualified candidates, there's never been a better time to jump into tech in KC. Whether you're into AI, cybersecurity, or full-stack development, Kansas City's tech future is looking seriously bright!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top high-paying tech jobs in Kansas City in 2025?
Some of the top high-paying tech jobs in Kansas City in 2025 include Software Developers, Data Scientists, Cybersecurity Analysts, Artificial Intelligence Specialists, and Cloud Engineers. These roles offer lucrative salaries, with some starting at $85,000 and senior roles exceeding six figures.
Why is Kansas City an attractive location for tech jobs in 2025?
Kansas City is an attractive location for tech jobs due to its fast-growing tech sector, which is expanding 16% faster than other major cities, lower living costs than other tech hubs, and the presence of major companies like Garmin, Cerner, and T-Mobile. It was named a regional tech hub by the U.S. Commerce Department, further boosting its appeal.
How is Artificial Intelligence impacting Kansas City's tech industry?
Artificial Intelligence is significantly impacting Kansas City's tech industry with $7.8 million invested into AI development and major firms like PwC and Garmin increasing their focus on AI-driven solutions. As companies compete for specialists, AI roles are offering salaries that can exceed $250,000, contributing to the city's tech growth.
What opportunities are available for Cybersecurity professionals in Kansas City?
Kansas City's cybersecurity sector is growing rapidly, employing nearly 7,000 professionals with an expected growth of 18% by 2025. Entry-level positions start at $61,000, and seasoned professionals can earn up to $165,000. The presence of major institutions like the FBI regional HQ is driving demand for cybersecurity expertise.
What factors are contributing to the growth of Kansas City's tech scene in 2025?
Kansas City's tech scene growth is driven by a strong talent pipeline from local universities, significant investments in AI and cloud computing, a cost of living 15% below the national average, and a projected creation of 110,000 new tech positions by 2025. This growth is supported by major players like Cerner and T-Mobile and enhanced digital infrastructures.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.