How much does a Cyber Security Engineer make?
Cyber Security Engineers play a crucial role in protecting organizations from digital threats. They earn a solid income, reflecting the importance of their work. The average yearly salary for a Cyber Security Engineer is around $130,850. This figure shows that the job is well-compensated.
The salary range for Cyber Security Engineers can vary. At the lower end, some earn about $73,000 per year. As experience and skills grow, salaries can reach up to $206,000 annually. This wide range offers many opportunities for growth and advancement. Employers value these skills, which is why the pay is competitive. With the right qualifications, a Cyber Security Engineer can expect a rewarding career both in terms of job satisfaction and financial compensation.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cyber Security Engineer?

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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $143,285
In Richmond, professionals in cybersecurity work to protect data and networks. Companies like Capital One and Altria offer many opportunities. The city's growing tech scene makes it a good place to start or grow a career.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $142,435
Chicago is a hub for cybersecurity experts. With major firms like Boeing and Accenture, the city offers diverse roles. Chicago's vibrant tech community provides many chances to learn and grow.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $134,336
Dayton is home to several tech companies needing cybersecurity talent. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base offers unique opportunities. The city's supportive environment helps professionals advance in their careers.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $134,233
San Diego is a top city for cybersecurity jobs. With companies like Qualcomm and Northrop Grumman, the area offers many exciting roles. The city's beautiful weather and strong tech scene make it an attractive place to work.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $134,083
Miami has a growing need for cybersecurity experts. Companies like Carnival Corporation and Knight Foundation are hiring. The city's diverse culture and warm climate make it a great place to live and work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $133,750
Washington, DC, is a key location for cybersecurity jobs. With many government agencies and tech firms, the city offers many opportunities. Working here means being at the center of important tech and security developments.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $133,210
St. Louis offers a mix of tech and cybersecurity jobs. Companies like Boeing and Express Scripts are looking for talent. The city's affordable cost of living and strong community make it a good place to work.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $129,830
Charlotte is a fast-growing city for cybersecurity jobs. With companies like Bank of America and Duke Energy, the area offers many opportunities. The city's welcoming atmosphere and strong economy make it a great place to work.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $128,825
Orlando is a great place for cybersecurity careers. With companies like Disney and Lockheed Martin, the city offers many exciting roles. The city's vibrant culture and warm climate make it a fun place to live and work.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $128,235
San Antonio offers many cybersecurity jobs. Companies like AT&T and H-E-B are hiring. The city's strong economy and affordable living make it a good place to start or grow a career.
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What are the best companies a Cyber Security Engineer can work for?

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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $174,400
Amazon.com offers top-tier Cyber Security Engineer positions. They focus on protecting their vast digital infrastructure. Amazon operates globally, with major offices in Seattle, New York, and San Francisco.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $164,356
Amentum provides Cyber Security Engineer roles with a strong focus on government contracts. They work on securing critical systems. The company has locations in Virginia, California, and Texas.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $162,080
BAE Systems USA offers Cyber Security Engineer jobs with a focus on defense and aerospace. They protect sensitive information. The company operates in major cities like Arlington, Virginia, and San Diego, California.
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Navy Federal Credit Union
Average Salary: $157,683
Navy Federal Credit Union provides Cyber Security Engineer positions with a focus on financial security. They safeguard member data. The company operates nationwide, with headquarters in Virginia.
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $155,759
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory offers Cyber Security Engineer roles with a focus on national security. They protect critical research data. The lab is located in California.
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Leidos
Average Salary: $147,657
Leidos provides Cyber Security Engineer positions with a focus on government and defense. They secure sensitive information. They operate in major cities like Reston, Virginia, and San Antonio, Texas.
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HII
Average Salary: $146,150
HII offers Cyber Security Engineer roles with a focus on defense and aerospace. They protect critical systems. The company operates in Virginia and Mississippi.
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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $145,841
General Dynamics Information Technology provides Cyber Security Engineer positions with a focus on defense and government. They secure sensitive data. They operate in major cities like Falls Church, Virginia, and San Diego, California.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $142,929
Piper Companies offers Cyber Security Engineer roles with a focus on defense and government. They protect critical systems. The company operates in Virginia and California.
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ASRC Federal
Average Salary: $139,956
ASRC Federal provides Cyber Security Engineer positions with a focus on government and defense. They secure sensitive information. They operate in major cities like Fairfax, Virginia, and Huntsville, Alabama.
How to earn more as a Cyber Security Engineer?
A Cyber Security Engineer can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience in different industries can open up higher-paying opportunities. Each sector has unique challenges and security needs, making a versatile engineer more valuable. Specializing in high-demand areas like cloud security or threat intelligence can also lead to higher salaries. These areas often face critical skill shortages, making specialized engineers more sought after.
Certifications play a crucial role in enhancing earning potential. Recognized certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can significantly boost a resume. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to the field and a deeper understanding of security practices. Networking with other professionals and attending industry conferences can lead to new job opportunities. Building a strong professional network can provide insights into higher-paying positions and industry trends. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest security technologies and threats can also lead to better-paying roles. Employers value engineers who can adapt to new challenges and protect their systems effectively.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Cyber Security Engineer:
- Gain experience in different industries.
- Specialize in high-demand areas.
- Obtain recognized certifications.
- Build a strong professional network.
- Stay updated with the latest security technologies.



