Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Sacramento in 2025

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: January 3rd 2025

Skyline of Sacramento with tech symbols representing jobs.

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In 2025, Sacramento's tech industry is booming with a 2.7% growth rate and salaries averaging $92,000. Top roles include Cloud Architects earning up to $146,071 and Data Scientists making $128,000 annually. With a cost of living 23% below the national average, the city offers lucrative opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Sacramento's tech scene in 2025 is absolutely exploding! The numbers are mind-blowing - we're talking about 42,000 new tech jobs with a solid 2.7% growth rate.

What's really cool is that tech salaries here average $92,000, and the best part? The cost of living is 23% below the national average, so your money goes way further than in other tech hubs.

Over 1,400 tech companies now call Sacramento home, with roles ranging from AI development to cloud computing.

The hiring process typically takes about 36 days, which is pretty quick for tech jobs.

  • Cloud Architects: Earning up to $146,071 annually.
  • Data Scientists: Pulling in $128,000 annually.

What's really exciting is seeing positions like Cloud Architects earning up to $146,071 and Data Scientists pulling in $128,000 annually.

The city's becoming a major player in sustainable tech and AI, with tons of opportunities in cybersecurity and machine learning. For anyone looking to break into tech, Sacramento's combination of job growth, competitive salaries, and lower living costs makes it an amazing place to launch a career.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the highest-paying tech roles in our growing tech hub.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology: How We Ranked the Jobs
  • Cloud Architect: Leading the Way with Innovation
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Pioneers in AI
  • Data Scientist: Data-Driven Success
  • Software Engineer: Powering Digital Transformation
  • Network Security Engineer: Guardians of Data
  • Cybersecurity Engineer: Defending Against Threats
  • DevOps Engineer: Enhancing Collaboration
  • Information Security Analyst: Ensuring Data Protection
  • Penetration Tester: Detecting Vulnerabilities
  • AI Research Scientist: Innovators of Tomorrow
  • Conclusion: The Future of Tech Jobs in Sacramento
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology: How We Ranked the Jobs

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Based on Robert Half's latest research, over half of tech managers are actually lowering their experience requirements to fill positions faster, which is great news for newcomers.

We looked at everything from basic salaries to how many jobs are actually available, using real data from job boards and company reports. Sacramento's tech scene is creating an average of 16,500 new jobs monthly, making it seriously competitive with other tech hubs.

Companies are ready to pay top dollar for skills in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity - we're talking six-figure salaries right out of the gate.

We didn't just pull numbers out of thin air; we checked salary data from multiple sources, talked to real employers, and looked at where Sacramento's tech scene is headed.

The whole process involved three steps: gathering all the salary info we could find, checking which jobs actually matter for Sacramento's future (not just what pays well today), and running everything through our ranking system to make sure we weren't missing anything important.

And since the tech world moves super fast, we made sure to factor in which jobs will still be relevant in the next few years, not just what's hot right now. This isn't just about finding a job that pays well today - it's about finding a career that'll keep growing with you.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Cloud Architect: Leading the Way with Innovation

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Cloud Architects are crushing it in Sacramento's tech scene in 2025, leading the way with salaries reaching $166,639 for experienced professionals.

The role demands a mix of technical expertise and problem-solving skills, with responsibilities spanning from network assessment to security implementation. A typical day involves designing scalable solutions, managing cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Cloud Architects need serious skills in routing, switching, and wireless security, plus at least five years of hands-on experience with network operating systems.

The role requires mastery of cloud computing strategy, including infrastructure design, migration planning, and implementation of security protocols.

What makes this career path really exciting is the constant evolution of technology and the chance to work with cutting-edge tools. Sacramento's tech sector is booming with infrastructure investments hitting $8.9 billion, creating amazing opportunities for aspiring Cloud Architects.

The position typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science, but the real value comes from hands-on experience with high-availability systems and both relational and NoSQL databases.

Companies are actively seeking professionals who can handle complex cloud environments while keeping an eye on cost efficiency and performance optimization. With the tech sector growing at 14% through 2032, Cloud Architects are perfectly positioned to shape the future of Sacramento's digital landscape.

Machine Learning Engineer: Pioneers in AI

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Machine Learning Engineering is seriously taking off in Sacramento's tech scene in 2025. Based on new data, the field is experiencing major growth with 60% of tech managers actively seeking AI expertise.

Entry-level salaries start strong at around $96,000, with experienced professionals earning between $133,076 to $181,346. The real buzz is around seasoned Machine Learning Engineers with 5+ years of experience, who are landing impressive compensation packages that can reach up to $210,000 in specialized roles.

The skills that matter most include Python programming, deep learning frameworks like PyTorch, and cloud platform expertise. What's cool is that Sacramento's cost of living is 23% below the national average, making these high salaries stretch even further.

Companies like Intel and HP are expanding their presence here, and they're specifically looking for people who can handle AI threat detection, cloud security, and quantum-safe encryption.

The best part? The field keeps evolving with new challenges in natural language processing and computer vision, making it an exciting career choice for tech enthusiasts who want to push boundaries and create cutting-edge solutions.

With over 5,000 cybersecurity openings and a growing focus on AI integration, Sacramento is becoming a legit tech hub where machine learning professionals can thrive.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Data Scientist: Data-Driven Success

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As a Data Scientist in Sacramento, you're at the forefront of transforming raw data into actionable insights.

The role has evolved significantly, with professionals now earning between $110,000 to $130,000 annually, while experienced Data Scientists can reach up to $154,760.

The work involves building data pipelines, creating machine learning models, and developing visualization tools that make complex information accessible. According to recent data, employment for Data Scientists is expected to grow by 73,100 jobs between 2023 and 2033, making it one of the fastest-growing tech roles through 2025.

The field requires proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and various data analysis tools, with opportunities spanning healthcare, finance, and emerging tech sectors.

What makes this role especially exciting is the chance to work with cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies. Recent trends show that Sacramento's tech sector has grown by 9.7% since 2023, offering Data Scientists competitive salaries while maintaining a cost of living 14% lower than the California average.

The role combines technical expertise with problem-solving skills, making it perfect for those who love turning data challenges into business solutions.

Software Engineer: Powering Digital Transformation

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In Sacramento's tech scene, Software Engineers are earning competitive salaries averaging $110,000, with experienced professionals pulling in up to $125,000.

The field is seriously growing, with over 530 tech companies now operating in the area. These roles aren't just about coding - they're reshaping how businesses work across healthcare, finance, and pretty much every industry you can think of.

The job market is super active, with the tech sector growing 9.7% since 2023, and living costs are 14% lower than the California average.

That's honestly huge for anyone starting their career. Major companies are investing billions in infrastructure ($8.9B to be exact), creating tons of new opportunities.

Software Engineers here are working on everything from AI applications to cloud platforms, using languages like Python, JavaScript, and Java. What makes Sacramento different is how it combines solid career growth with actually affordable living - you can make great money while still having a life outside work.

The average hiring process takes about 36 days, and companies are actively looking for people who can bring fresh perspectives to their teams. Whether you're into building apps, creating AI solutions, or working on cloud systems, there's room to grow and innovate.

Plus, with the tech sector contributing nearly $1 trillion to California's economy, this field is only getting bigger.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Network Security Engineer: Guardians of Data

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Network Security Engineers are seriously in demand here in Sacramento for 2025. According to recent salary data, these digital defenders are earning between $141,872 to $165,673, making this role one of the best-paid tech positions in the region.

What makes this job exciting is that you're basically working as the guardian of an organization's network - setting up firewalls, running security tests, and analyzing network data for potential threats.

Leading healthcare organizations are actively seeking engineers who can handle everything from implementing enterprise-level security solutions to managing complex system architectures.

The role goes beyond just technical skills - you need to stay sharp and think ahead of potential cyber threats. Key responsibilities include configuring VPNs, maintaining email and web protocols, and responding quickly to security incidents.

With Sacramento's tech scene growing rapidly, especially in healthcare and government sectors, network security engineers are becoming crucial for protecting sensitive data.

Companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity infrastructure, creating tons of opportunities for those interested in this field. The best part? The job keeps evolving with new technologies and threats, so you're always learning and adapting.

If you're into problem-solving and want to make a real impact while earning a solid salary, this could be your perfect career match in Sacramento's booming tech scene.

Cybersecurity Engineer: Defending Against Threats

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In 2025, Sacramento's cybersecurity job market is on fire with over 5,000 positions available, and major employers like Intel and Kaiser are constantly searching for talent.

As a Cybersecurity Engineer in Sacramento, you're looking at salaries ranging from $108,000 to $240,000, with entry-level positions starting around $130,988. The role is intense but rewarding - you're basically the digital guardian protecting organizations from cyber threats that are getting more sophisticated by the day.

Here's what makes this career path seriously exciting:

  • Cutting-edge tech: You get to work with the latest technology to detect and stop security breaches.
  • Proactive security: There's a huge focus on proactive security measures and system protection.
  • Penetration testing: You'll run penetration testing to find vulnerabilities before hackers do.
  • Team collaboration: Collaboration with tech teams to build bulletproof security systems.

The demand is real - industry forecasts show a 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030, way faster than most other careers.

Sacramento's becoming a major tech hub, especially in cybersecurity, with a strong 91% supply/demand ratio. That means job security is practically guaranteed.

What's even better? Companies are investing heavily in training programs, making it easier to level up your skills and advance your career.

With cyber attacks getting more complex and frequent, organizations are investing big time in their security.

The job isn't just about playing defense anymore - it's about being strategic and staying ahead of threats. If you're into problem-solving and want a career that actually matters, cybersecurity in Sacramento is where it's at.

Trust me, securing the digital future while making a solid income is pretty much the dream job in 2025.

DevOps Engineer: Enhancing Collaboration

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DevOps Engineers are reshaping Sacramento's tech scene in 2025, making a real impact on how companies develop and deploy software. Entry-level positions start at $73,000 to $125,000, with experienced professionals earning up to $129,097.

These professionals are essential for speeding up development cycles and making systems more reliable. The role combines coding skills with operational know-how, creating a perfect mix for today's tech needs.

Sacramento's average DevOps salary of $129,143 shows just how much companies value these skills.

What makes DevOps Engineers so important is their ability to build and maintain CI/CD pipelines that keep code flowing smoothly from development to production.

They're the ones making sure everything runs without hiccups, using automation to catch issues before they become problems. The cool thing about DevOps is how it brings different teams together - developers, IT ops, and security all working as one unit.

Sacramento's tech scene is growing fast, and DevOps Engineers are right at the center of it.

With over 530 tech companies in the area and billions in new construction, the opportunities are everywhere.

Companies are competing hard for DevOps talent, offering great benefits and the chance to work with cutting-edge tools.

  • Central Theme: Understanding DevOps career filters the path.
    If you're thinking about a tech career in Sacramento, DevOps is definitely worth checking out - it's not just about the salary, but also about being part of something that's changing how technology works.

Information Security Analyst: Ensuring Data Protection

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Sacramento's cybersecurity scene is seriously heating up in 2025, with Information Security Analyst positions offering starting salaries around $130,988 - way higher than initially expected.

The job market is expanding like crazy with over 5,000 openings, and the best part? There's not enough talent to fill all these roles. Companies are basically competing for skilled professionals, which means better pay and amazing perks.

We're talking about salary ranges from $108,000 to $240,000 depending on your experience level, plus sweet benefits like flexible work options and annual bonuses up to 15%.

The cool thing is, you don't need decades of experience to get started.

Entry-level analysts handle everything from firewall administration to encryption tech, and the learning curve is totally worth it. Major responsibilities include security audits, risk assessments, and stopping security breaches.

With big players like Intel and Kaiser Permanente hiring in Sacramento, and the market projected to grow 33% by 2033, this field is definitely where it's at. Plus, if you're into AI and machine learning, that's even better - job postings requiring AI knowledge are increasing, making your skill set even more valuable.

What makes this career path even more attractive is the variety of specializations available.

Whether you're into penetration testing, security architecture, or consulting, there's room to grow and specialize. The field is constantly evolving with new security challenges, so it never gets boring.

With Sacramento becoming a major tech hub and companies investing more in security, now's honestly the perfect time to jump in.

Penetration Tester: Detecting Vulnerabilities

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As a Penetration Tester in Sacramento's tech scene, you get to be the good guy who hacks systems to keep them safe.

Starting salary hits around $91,000, but experienced pros can make over $200,000 annually - pretty sweet for playing defense against cyber threats. The role requires solid skills in Python, PowerShell, and network protocols, plus you'll need to master tools like Metasploit and Kali Linux.

Major employers like Intel and Kaiser Permanente are constantly on the lookout for talented pen testers, contributing to the 25% surge in cybersecurity job openings expected by 2024.

Getting started typically means grabbing certifications like CEH or OSCP, and about 55% of pros hold a bachelor's degree. What makes this job extra interesting is that you're basically a problem-solver who thinks like a hacker but works for the good team.

Day-to-day work involves identifying vulnerabilities, running security assessments, and helping organizations upgrade their defenses.

The best part? Sacramento's tech boom means tons of opportunities to grow, especially with the increasing focus on cloud security and AI. Companies are investing heavily in security, which means job security for those of us who love finding and fixing vulnerabilities.

Plus, you get to work with cutting-edge tech while helping protect important data - it's literally getting paid to outsmart the bad guys.

AI Research Scientist: Innovators of Tomorrow

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As a future AI Research Scientist in Sacramento's growing tech scene, I'm excited about the incredible opportunities ahead. These innovators are pushing the boundaries of what's possible with artificial intelligence, and the average salary of $197,972 definitely makes this career path worth considering.

The role involves creating cutting-edge algorithms, running complex experiments, and developing AI models that make machines smarter. What's really cool is how AI Research Scientists work across different industries - from healthcare to finance to agriculture - making a real difference in how these sectors operate.

Sacramento's tech community is seriously embracing AI innovation.

Research Scientists are leading groundbreaking projects in areas like smart city development and environmental monitoring.

The work isn't just about coding - it's about solving real problems that impact our community. Plus, the opportunities are expanding fast. Local tech companies aren't just looking for people who can code; they want innovators who can think creatively about AI solutions while considering their ethical implications.

For anyone interested in this field, the path is clear but challenging.

Becoming an AI Research Scientist typically requires advanced degrees in computer science or related fields, strong programming skills, and a deep understanding of machine learning.

Sacramento's tech ecosystem supports growth through various conferences, workshops, and incubators. The city is becoming a hub for sustainable AI development, with more companies focusing on responsible AI practices.

This isn't just about creating cool technology - it's about shaping how AI will be used to benefit society while maintaining ethical standards.

Conclusion: The Future of Tech Jobs in Sacramento

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Sacramento's tech scene is absolutely taking off in 2025, and the numbers are seriously impressive! With tech jobs making up 6.5% of total employment, we're seeing some major opportunities here.

The latest employment data shows Sacramento's tech salaries are up 9.7% since 2023, with Cloud Architects earning around $144,000, Machine Learning Engineers pulling in $137,000, and Data Scientists making $125,000.

The cost of living here is 14% lower than the California average, so your tech salary goes way further.

Looking ahead, Sacramento's tech sector is changing the game with over 1,400 tech companies now calling this city home.

The job market is growing super fast, with an 8% annual growth rate expected over the next five years. Big names like Apple are expanding here, and there are tons of opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Plus, with projected construction starts hitting $8.9 billion, there's massive infrastructure development supporting all this growth.

For anyone looking to break into tech, Sacramento ranks among the top growing tech hubs in the country with a 9.7% salary increase.

The average hiring timeline is just 36 days, and entry-level positions start around $47,000, with experienced roles reaching up to $141,905. Companies are investing heavily in training and development, especially in AI and machine learning, where 60% of tech managers are actively hiring.

Whether you're into coding, cybersecurity, or data science, Sacramento's tech scene is seriously ready for new talent.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the average salary for tech jobs in Sacramento in 2025?

The average tech salary in Sacramento is $92,000 in 2025, with roles like Cloud Architects earning up to $146,071 and Data Scientists pulling in $128,000 annually.

How does Sacramento's cost of living impact tech salaries?

Sacramento's cost of living is 23% below the national average, allowing tech professionals to stretch their salaries further compared to other tech hubs.

What are some high-paying tech roles in Sacramento for 2025?

Some high-paying tech roles include Cloud Architects, Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, and Network Security Engineers, with salaries ranging from $133,076 to $210,000 for experienced professionals.

How fast is the tech job market growing in Sacramento?

Sacramento's tech job market is experiencing a 2.7% growth rate, contributing to an overall 8% annual growth rate expected over the next five years.

What makes Sacramento an attractive place for tech careers?

Sacramento offers competitive salaries, a lower cost of living, and a rapidly growing tech sector with opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, making it an ideal location for launching a tech career.

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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.