What’s the Average Cybersecurity Salary in 2021?
Cybersecurity has become a critical need for businesses worldwide. With cyber-attacks becoming more prevalent and sophisticated, companies are investing in cybersecurity professionals to safeguard their data and systems. This trend has resulted in a surge in demand for experts in information security and an increase in cybersecurity salaries.
The Average Cybersecurity Salary
According to research by CyberSeek, the average salary for cybersecurity professionals in the United States is $106,000 per year. This figure can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, credentials, and industry. For instance, a cybersecurity professional in San Francisco can earn an average salary of $135,000, while the average salary in Florida is $80,000.
Factors that Affect Cybersecurity Salaries
Experience: As with most occupations, cybersecurity salaries increase with experience. Entry-level cybersecurity professionals can earn an average of $72,000 per year, while experienced professionals with more than ten years of experience can earn over $147,000.
Credentials: Achieving professional certifications can significantly increase a cybersecurity professional’s earning potential. Top cybersecurity certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
Industry: Cybersecurity professionals in certain industries or sectors may earn more than others. For instance, those working in healthcare, finance, and government can earn higher salaries than those in retail or education.
Location: Cybersecurity salaries vary depending on the location. Areas with high living costs, such as San Francisco and New York City, tend to offer higher salaries than rural areas.
The Future of Cybersecurity Salaries
The demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to continue growing in the future, as organizations continue to prioritize secure computing environments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of information security professionals will grow 32% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is well above the average for all occupations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field with high earning potential. The average cybersecurity salary in the United States is $106,000 per year, but this can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, credentials, industry, and location. As cyber-attacks become more prevalent, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to continue growing, creating more opportunities for talented professionals in this field.
