How much does a Cyber Security Engineer make?
Cyber Security Engineers play a key role in protecting organizations from digital threats. They earn a solid income for their important work. The average yearly salary for a Cyber Security Engineer is around $130,063. This means that many in this field can expect a good paycheck.
The salary for a Cyber Security Engineer can vary based on experience and skills. Entry-level positions may start at around $73,130 per year. As experience grows, so does the salary. More experienced engineers can earn upwards of $198,000 annually. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth and higher earnings in this career. A Cyber Security Engineer can look forward to a rewarding and financially stable career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cyber Security Engineer?

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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $144,300
In Richmond, cybersecurity experts play a key role in protecting local businesses. Companies like Capital One and Deloitte offer many opportunities. The city's growing tech sector makes it a great place to start or advance a career in cybersecurity.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $136,687
Chicago is a hub for tech and finance, making it a prime location for cybersecurity professionals. Major firms like IBM and Accenture need skilled workers. The city's diverse job market offers many paths to grow in this field.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $134,083
Miami's warm climate and growing tech scene attract cybersecurity talent. Companies like Citigroup and Fidelity are expanding their cybersecurity teams. The city offers a mix of urban and beach lifestyles, making it an attractive place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $133,550
Washington, DC, is a center for government and tech, offering many cybersecurity jobs. Agencies like the NSA and companies like Lockheed Martin need strong security experts. The city's vibrant culture and networking opportunities make it ideal for career growth.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $133,186
San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and strong tech industry. Companies like Qualcomm and General Dynamics need cybersecurity experts. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities and professional growth, making it a great place to work.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $132,779
St. Louis offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with many opportunities in cybersecurity. Companies like Boeing and Edward Jones need skilled workers. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option for professionals.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $132,650
Dayton is a growing tech hub with many opportunities for cybersecurity experts. Companies like General Motors and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base need strong security professionals. The city's affordable living and community support make it a great place to work.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $128,318
Orlando's booming tech scene offers many cybersecurity jobs. Companies like Disney and Lockheed Martin need skilled workers. The city's family-friendly environment and vibrant culture make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $128,113
Charlotte is a financial hub with many opportunities in cybersecurity. Companies like Bank of America and Wells Fargo need strong security experts. The city's growing tech scene and quality of life make it a great place to work.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $127,581
San Antonio is a growing tech hub with many opportunities in cybersecurity. Companies like AT&T and H-E-B need skilled workers. The city's affordable living and strong community make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Cyber Security Engineer can work for?

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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $165,155
BAE Systems USA offers exciting roles for Cyber Security Engineers. They work in various locations, including Virginia, Maryland, and California, focusing on protecting national security systems.
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Navy Federal Credit Union
Average Salary: $164,353
Navy Federal Credit Union provides rewarding opportunities for Cyber Security Engineers. They operate in Virginia, Florida, and Colorado, ensuring the security of financial systems.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $154,808
Amentum offers competitive salaries for Cyber Security Engineers. They work in locations like Virginia, Maryland, and Texas, focusing on safeguarding critical infrastructure.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $152,975
Deloitte provides dynamic roles for Cyber Security Engineers. They operate in cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, helping to secure client data.
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $152,890
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory offers rewarding positions for Cyber Security Engineers. They work in California, focusing on national security and research projects.
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Leidos
Average Salary: $152,159
Leidos provides excellent opportunities for Cyber Security Engineers. They operate in Virginia, Maryland, and Colorado, ensuring the security of government and commercial systems.
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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $147,791
General Dynamics Information Technology offers competitive roles for Cyber Security Engineers. They work in locations like Virginia, Maryland, and Colorado, protecting critical information systems.
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HII
Average Salary: $146,150
HII provides rewarding positions for Cyber Security Engineers. They operate in Virginia, Mississippi, and California, focusing on national defense and aerospace projects.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $145,250
Piper Companies offers competitive salaries for Cyber Security Engineers. They work in various locations, including Virginia and Maryland, ensuring the security of financial and government systems.
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ASRC Federal
Average Salary: $139,956
ASRC Federal provides rewarding opportunities for Cyber Security Engineers. They operate in Virginia, Maryland, and California, focusing on national defense and aerospace projects.
How to earn more as a Cyber Security Engineer?
A Cyber Security Engineer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions. Certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly valued. These credentials show a deep understanding of security practices and can lead to better job opportunities.
Experience also plays a crucial role in earning more. Working in the field for several years allows engineers to build a strong portfolio of projects and skills. Each project adds to their expertise and makes them more valuable to potential employers. Networking with other professionals can lead to job offers that pay more. Attending industry conferences and joining professional groups can help build these connections. Finally, moving to a location with a higher cost of living can result in a higher salary. Cities with a high demand for cyber security professionals often offer better pay.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Cyber Security Engineer:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain several years of experience.
- Network with other professionals.
- Consider relocating to a higher-paying area.
- Stay updated with the latest security trends.