How much does a Security Specialist make?
A Security Specialist can expect to earn a solid income. The average yearly salary for this role is around $70,288. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company. For those just starting out, salaries can be lower, but they grow with experience.
Different levels of experience lead to different pay scales. Entry-level specialists might earn closer to $34,000 a year. With more experience, these numbers can rise significantly. At the top end, seasoned specialists can earn upwards of $167,800 annually. This wide range shows that dedication and hard work can lead to excellent rewards.
What are the highest paying cities for a Security Specialist?

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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $115,215
In Jackson, professionals can find rewarding work with companies like Entergy and Trustmark. This vibrant city offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern opportunities. Working here, security experts can enjoy a thriving job market and a strong sense of community.
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Chattanooga, TN
Average Salary: $109,076
Chattanooga offers a dynamic environment for those in the security field. Companies like Volkswagen and EPB provide excellent opportunities. The city combines natural beauty with urban convenience, making it a great place for a fulfilling career in security.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $104,574
Washington, DC is a hub for security specialists. With major employers like the U.S. Department of Defense and various federal agencies, this city offers diverse and impactful work. Security professionals here enjoy a rich cultural scene and a high demand for their expertise.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $103,585
Seattle provides a progressive atmosphere for security experts. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are leaders in tech and innovation. This city offers a strong community and a growing job market, making it an attractive place for security careers.
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Durham, NC
Average Salary: $103,243
Durham is known for its Research Triangle Park and tech startups. Companies such as IBM and Cisco offer promising careers in security. The city combines a vibrant nightlife with a welcoming community, ideal for security professionals.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $102,485
Hartford is home to major insurance companies like Aetna and Travelers. Security specialists here enjoy a stable job market and a strong sense of community. The city offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities.
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Wilmington, NC
Average Salary: $96,923
Wilmington offers a growing job market for security experts. Companies like Bank of America and the Port of Wilmington provide excellent opportunities. This coastal city combines natural beauty with urban opportunities, creating a vibrant work environment.
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Lafayette, LA
Average Salary: $96,169
Lafayette has a unique blend of culture and opportunity. Companies like Cajun Electric and Lafayette Parish offer great career prospects. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and rich history make it an attractive place for security specialists.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $95,346
Raleigh is a hub for tech and innovation, with companies like Cisco and IBM. Security professionals here enjoy a thriving job market and a high quality of life. The city combines natural beauty with urban convenience, making it a great place for a fulfilling career.
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Fayetteville, NC
Average Salary: $94,757
Fayetteville offers diverse opportunities for security experts. Companies like Fort Bragg and Cape Fear Valley Health System provide stable employment. The city’s growing population and vibrant community make it an attractive place for security careers.
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What are the best companies a Security Specialist can work for?

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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $166,574
Wells Fargo is one of the largest financial services companies in the U.S. They offer a variety of opportunities for Security Specialists. The company operates in many locations across the country, including major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Charlotte.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $166,512
Amazon Web Services provides cloud computing services and is a top choice for Security Specialists. They have offices in many cities, including Seattle, New York, and London. Working here offers chances to protect some of the world's largest digital platforms.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $165,546
TikTok is a popular social media platform known for its short videos. They hire Security Specialists to keep user data safe. TikTok's headquarters are in Los Angeles, with offices in places like New York and Singapore.
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World Wide Technology
Average Salary: $142,796
World Wide Technology focuses on IT solutions and services. They need Security Specialists to safeguard their clients' data. The company operates in various locations across the U.S., including St. Louis and Dallas.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $142,695
Microsoft is a leader in software and technology. They offer Security Specialist positions to protect their products and services. Microsoft has offices in cities like Redmond, Seattle, and Hyderabad.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $136,530
KPMG is a global network of professional services firms. They need Security Specialists to protect sensitive data. KPMG operates in many locations around the world, including New York and London.
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Safeguard Security & Surveillance, Inc.
Average Salary: $132,727
Safeguard Security & Surveillance provides security services and equipment. They hire Security Specialists to work on-site and remotely. The company serves clients across the U.S., with offices in Denver and Miami.
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Accenture
Average Salary: $130,801
Accenture offers consulting services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations. They need Security Specialists to protect their clients' data. Accenture has offices in cities like New York, Chicago, and Bangalore.
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Google
Average Salary: $127,478
Google is a tech giant known for its search engine and many other products. They hire Security Specialists to protect user data and systems. Google has offices in Silicon Valley, New York, and London.
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Bank of America
Average Salary: $127,463
Bank of America is one of the largest banks in the U.S. They offer Security Specialist positions to protect financial information. The bank operates in many locations across the country, including Charlotte, New York, and San Francisco.
How to earn more as a Security Specialist?
A Security Specialist can increase their earnings through various methods. Focusing on professional development is a great start. Specializing in areas like cybersecurity or risk management can open up higher-paying opportunities. Continuous learning and certification can lead to advanced roles and better pay.
Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job openings and promotions. Attending industry conferences, joining professional groups, and using online platforms like LinkedIn can help build valuable connections. Experience matters. Starting in entry-level positions and gaining hands-on experience can lead to higher positions over time. Seeking roles that offer growth and taking on more responsibility can increase earning potential. Some factors to consider include:
- Earn certifications in specialized areas.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Gain experience through various roles.
- Seek positions with opportunities for advancement.
- Stay updated with the latest industry trends.



