South Africa’s tech industry continues to thrive in 2025, with IT professionals earning significantly more than the national average salary. According to Analytico’s 2025 South African tech salary survey, the demand for skilled IT workers has driven salaries to new heights.
The survey, conducted in February 2025, gathered insights from over 2,500 IT professionals across various roles, including software developers, network engineers, systems administrators, and executives. As technology becomes an integral part of every industry, salaries in tech are reflecting this growing reliance on skilled professionals.
What Are the Key Findings from the 2025 Tech Salary Survey?
The survey revealed several important trends shaping the tech job market in South Africa:
- 47% of IT professionals received a salary increase in 2025.
- 55% received a bonus during the previous year.
- 60% believe they are paid fairly, while 40% feel underpaid, and less than 1% feel overpaid.
- The average monthly salary for full-time tech professionals is R88,635, while part-time workers earn R44,336 on average.
These figures highlight how IT professionals continue to out-earn the national average salary, which stands at R28,220, according to the Quarterly Employment Statistics survey (Q3 2024).
How Do Tech Salaries Compare Across Different Roles?
Tech salaries vary widely depending on the job role, experience level, and company size. Professionals working in large corporations in regions like Gauteng and Cape Town generally earn more than those in smaller companies or rural areas.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of tech salaries in South Africa for 2025:
| Job Role | Entry-Level (R) | Experienced (R) | Mid-level (R) | Senior (R) | High-end (R) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-level executive | N/A | 55,500 | 120,000 | 156,500 | 220,000 |
| Programming & software development | 39,000 | 55,000 | 79,000 | 105,000 | 150,000 |
| Consultant | 12,000 | 30,000 | 70,000 | 105,000 | 156,000 |
| Analyst | 34,000 | 44,966 | 62,000 | 105,500 | 140,000 |
| IT management | 25,500 | 37,500 | 61,500 | 98,160 | 133,200 |
| Communications & media | 19,550 | 25,000 | 61,000 | 109,375 | 131,500 |
| Project management | 23,000 | 37,500 | 55,000 | 84,000 | 109,200 |
| Security | 21,500 | 31,325 | 45,000 | 99,500 | 109,616 |
| Database design & administration | 22,000 | 24,500 | 40,000 | 73,000 | 120,000 |
| Systems administration | 15,986 | 25,000 | 39,000 | 60,000 | 76,000 |
| Sales & marketing | 11,900 | 19,500 | 38,000 | 58,500 | 82,000 |
| Web development | 15,750 | 20,000 | 35,000 | 63,500 | 74,400 |
| Design & animation | 10,300 | 14,750 | 31,000 | 40,000 | 45,000 |
| Education, training & research | 8,800 | 25,000 | 30,000 | 47,554 | 69,920 |
| Tech support | 12,000 | 17,000 | 26,000 | 37,800 | 50,545 |
| Networking | 14,000 | 18,350 | 25,250 | 44,498 | 91,050 |
Why Do Salaries Differ Across Regions and Companies?
Several factors contribute to the differences in salaries across regions and companies:
- Location: Professionals in urban areas like Johannesburg and Cape Town generally earn higher salaries than those in smaller towns.
- Company Size: Large corporations often pay more and offer better benefits than smaller enterprises.
- Experience Level: Senior professionals with over 10 years of experience command significantly higher salaries.
- Industry Demand: Roles in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis are among the most sought-after, driving salaries higher.
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Which IT Roles Are the Highest-Paying in 2025?
Certain roles stand out for offering lucrative salaries in the South African tech industry:
- C-level Executives: Top earners can make up to R220,000 per month, reflecting their leadership responsibilities.
- Software Developers: Mid-level developers earn an average of R79,000, with high-end salaries reaching R150,000.
- IT Managers: Professionals in this role can expect up to R133,200 at the top end.
- Security Experts: As cybersecurity becomes a priority, senior roles offer salaries up to R109,616.
- Project Managers: High-end professionals in this field can earn around R109,200.
How Does Experience Affect Tech Salaries?
Experience plays a pivotal role in determining salary brackets:
- Entry-level (10th percentile): Professionals with minimal experience often earn between R10,300 and R39,000 depending on the role.
- Mid-level (Median): With 5-10 years of experience, salaries typically range from R30,000 to R79,000.
- Senior and High-end (75th to 90th percentile): Professionals with extensive experience can earn over R100,000, with C-level executives reaching beyond R200,000.
FAQs
Why are tech salaries higher than the national average in South Africa?
Tech roles require specialized skills and are in high demand, leading to salaries that surpass the national average.
Which tech jobs pay the most in 2025?
C-level executives, software developers, IT managers, and cybersecurity experts are among the highest earners.
How much can an entry-level software developer expect to earn?
Entry-level developers earn an average of R39,000 per month, with potential for significant growth with experience.
Do large companies pay more than small businesses?
Yes, larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits.
What is the average salary for a senior IT professional?
Senior IT professionals can earn between R98,000 and R156,500, depending on their role and company.
How much do tech professionals in project management earn?
Mid-level project managers earn around R55,000, with senior roles reaching R109,200.
Why is there a significant salary gap between regions?
Urban centers like Johannesburg and Cape Town offer higher salaries due to living costs and stronger tech industry presence.
What’s the outlook for tech salaries in South Africa beyond 2025?
With the ongoing digital transformation, tech salaries are expected to remain strong, especially for high-demand roles like cybersecurity and AI development.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
