Columbus vs Kennesaw: Cloud Architect Salary (2026)
Compare cloud architect salaries between Columbus, GA and Kennesaw, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, GA | Kennesaw, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,312▲ | $130,497 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.46▲ | $62.74 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,337 | $82,659▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $112,856▲ | $101,343 |
| 75th Percentile | $151,759 | $161,459▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $179,392 | $190,771▲ |
| Total Employed | 100▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Columbus, GA offers better overall compensation for cloud architects, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kennesaw.
The salary gap between Columbus and Kennesaw is $9,815 (7.52%). Columbus's median is -5.72% compared to the US national median of $148,828.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $99,055,Kennesaw spans $108,112. Kennesaw has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced cloud architects.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbus ($157,131 effective) pays 12.10% more than Kennesaw ($140,169 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,312/year)
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $157,131)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Kennesaw if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($190,771)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, cloud architect salaries in Columbus grew 20.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.9% growth in Kennesaw over the same period.
Columbus, GA
$113,140 (2019) → $136,490 (2025)
Kennesaw, GA
$115,544 (2024) → $126,943 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, GA
Kennesaw, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays cloud architects more: Columbus or Kennesaw?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Kennesaw?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Kennesaw as a cloud architect?
What do entry-level cloud architects earn in Columbus vs Kennesaw?
Related Comparisons
Written by Maria Gonzalez, MS
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in cloud architecture. She specializes in cloud security and compliance. She works in a technology consulting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.80% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Gonzalez, MS, a licensed cloud architect with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov