Thinking about getting your CompTIA Security+ certification? You're probably wondering what kind of CompTIA Security+ salary you can expect once you pass the exam. And honestly? That's the smart question to ask before investing your time and money into any certification.
The quick answer is that Security+ certified professionals earn between $65,000 and $95,000 on average in 2026 - but that number can swing pretty dramatically based on where you live, how much experience you have, and what specific role you land. I've seen entry-level folks start at $55K while experienced pros pull in well over $120K. Let me break down exactly what you can expect and how to maximize your earning potential.
What is CompTIA Security+ Certification?
Before we dive into the salary numbers, let's quickly cover what Security+ actually is. CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701 is the current version) is an entry-to-intermediate level certification that validates your cybersecurity knowledge. It covers threat assessment, network security, identity management, cryptography, and risk management fundamentals.
Here's the thing that makes Security+ special compared to other entry certs - it's DoD 8570 compliant. That means if you want to work for the government or defense contractors (and trust me, they pay well), Security+ is often a baseline requirement. Not just preferred. Required.
Security+ SY0-701 at a Glance
- Exam Code: SY0-701
- Number of Questions: Maximum of 90
- Question Types: Multiple choice and performance-based
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Passing Score: 750 (on a scale of 100-900)
- Exam Cost: $404 USD
- Recommended Experience: Network+ and 2 years IT admin experience
Now that we're on the same page about what Security+ covers, let's talk about what really matters to most people - the money.
CompTIA Security+ Salary Overview in 2026
So what's the real deal with CompTIA Security+ salary expectations? According to salary data from multiple sources including Glassdoor, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and PayScale, professionals holding Security+ certification earn a median salary ranging from $75,000 to $85,000 annually in 2026.
But median doesn't tell the whole story. The actual range spans from around $50,000 for entry-level positions in lower-cost areas all the way up to $130,000+ for experienced professionals in high-demand markets with additional certifications.
National Salary Statistics
Let me give you a realistic picture of what Security+ holders are actually earning across the country:
- 10th Percentile: $52,000 - $58,000
- 25th Percentile: $62,000 - $68,000
- 50th Percentile (Median): $75,000 - $85,000
- 75th Percentile: $92,000 - $105,000
- 90th Percentile: $115,000 - $130,000
These numbers reflect base salary only. When you factor in bonuses, overtime (especially in 24/7 security operations), and benefits, total compensation often runs 10-20% higher than base salary figures.
Security+ Salary by Experience Level
Experience level probably has the biggest impact on your CompTIA Security+ salary potential. Here's how compensation typically breaks down across different career stages.
Entry-Level (0-2 Years Experience)
Just starting out with Security+ and little or no direct security experience? You're looking at salaries in the $50,000 to $70,000 range for most positions. Major metros tend to pay on the higher end of that spectrum.
Typical entry-level titles include:
- Junior Security Analyst: $55,000 - $68,000
- SOC Analyst Tier 1: $52,000 - $65,000
- IT Security Specialist: $58,000 - $72,000
- Security Operations Technician: $50,000 - $62,000
The good news? Entry-level cybersecurity salaries beat most other entry-level IT positions. And the growth trajectory is steep if you're motivated.
Mid-Level (3-5 Years Experience)
This is where things get interesting. With 3-5 years under your belt and Security+ certification, salaries jump significantly to the $70,000 to $100,000 range. Many professionals add additional certifications during this phase, which accelerates earning potential.
- Security Analyst: $72,000 - $92,000
- SOC Analyst Tier 2/3: $75,000 - $95,000
- Information Security Analyst: $78,000 - $98,000
- Security Engineer: $85,000 - $105,000
Senior-Level (5+ Years Experience)
Senior cybersecurity professionals with Security+ (typically alongside advanced certs like CySA+ or CISSP) can command salaries from $90,000 to $150,000 or higher. At this level, you're often in management, architecture, or specialized consulting roles.
- Senior Security Analyst: $95,000 - $125,000
- Security Architect: $120,000 - $160,000
- Security Manager: $110,000 - $145,000
- Principal Security Engineer: $130,000 - $175,000
Accelerate Your Career Growth
Want to move faster through these salary bands? Focus on building hands-on experience in high-demand areas like cloud security, incident response, or threat hunting. These specializations command premium salaries and often have less competition than generalist roles.
CompTIA Security+ Salary by Location
Where you work matters. A lot. The same job title with identical qualifications can pay $30,000 to $50,000 more (or less) depending on your location. Let's look at how Security+ salaries vary across different regions.
Highest Paying Metro Areas
If maximizing your Security+ salary is the primary goal, these cities offer the highest compensation:
- San Francisco Bay Area: $95,000 - $140,000
- New York City: $90,000 - $130,000
- Washington D.C. Metro: $85,000 - $125,000
- Seattle: $88,000 - $125,000
- Boston: $82,000 - $118,000
- Los Angeles: $80,000 - $115,000
Now here's the catch - high salaries often come with high costs of living. That $120,000 San Francisco salary might provide less purchasing power than an $85,000 salary in Dallas or Phoenix. Always factor in cost of living when comparing offers.
Best Value Markets
Some cities offer a sweet spot of solid salaries with reasonable living costs. These "best value" markets include:
- Dallas/Fort Worth: $72,000 - $105,000
- Austin: $75,000 - $110,000
- Atlanta: $70,000 - $100,000
- Denver: $75,000 - $108,000
- Phoenix: $68,000 - $95,000
- Raleigh-Durham: $72,000 - $102,000
Remote Work Impact
Remote work has changed the salary landscape significantly. Many companies now offer location-adjusted salaries, meaning remote workers in lower-cost areas earn less than their colleagues in expensive metros. But some companies pay the same regardless of location - these are the opportunities to target if you're seeking maximum value.
Security+ Salary by Job Role
The specific job you land dramatically impacts your CompTIA Security+ salary. Here's a breakdown of common roles that typically require or prefer Security+ certification.
Security Operations Roles
- SOC Analyst (Tier 1): $52,000 - $68,000
- SOC Analyst (Tier 2): $65,000 - $85,000
- SOC Analyst (Tier 3): $80,000 - $105,000
- SOC Manager: $100,000 - $135,000
Security Analysis Roles
- Junior Security Analyst: $55,000 - $70,000
- Security Analyst: $70,000 - $95,000
- Senior Security Analyst: $90,000 - $120,000
- Threat Intelligence Analyst: $85,000 - $115,000
IT Administration with Security Focus
- Systems Administrator (Security): $65,000 - $90,000
- Network Administrator (Security): $62,000 - $88,000
- Security Systems Administrator: $72,000 - $98,000
Government and Defense Roles
Government and defense contractors often pay premium rates for cleared Security+ professionals:
- Information Assurance Analyst: $75,000 - $105,000
- Cybersecurity Specialist (GS-9 to GS-13): $60,000 - $115,000
- Defense Contractor Security Analyst: $80,000 - $120,000
Government Pay Considerations
Government positions use the General Schedule (GS) pay scale which may appear lower than private sector equivalents. However, factor in excellent benefits, job stability, pension plans, and work-life balance. Total compensation often exceeds private sector when benefits are included.
Factors That Affect Your CompTIA Security+ Salary
Beyond experience, location, and job title, several other factors influence what you can earn with Security+ certification.
Additional Certifications
Stacking certifications typically increases earning potential by 10-25% per relevant cert. Common certifications that complement Security+ include:
- CompTIA CySA+ - adds $8,000 - $15,000 to salary potential
- CompTIA PenTest+ - adds $10,000 - $18,000 for offensive security roles
- CompTIA Network+ - adds $5,000 - $10,000 and strengthens foundation
- CISSP - can add $20,000 - $40,000 but requires 5 years experience
Education Level
While Security+ can substitute for degree requirements in many positions, combining certification with education boosts salary:
- High School + Security+: Baseline salary range
- Associate's + Security+: +5-10% salary premium
- Bachelor's + Security+: +15-25% salary premium
- Master's + Security+: +25-35% salary premium
Security Clearance
Having or being eligible for security clearance significantly increases earning potential, especially in the D.C. metro area:
- No Clearance: Baseline salary
- Secret Clearance: +$10,000 - $20,000
- Top Secret: +$20,000 - $35,000
- TS/SCI: +$30,000 - $50,000
Industry Sector
The industry you work in also affects compensation. Highest paying sectors for Security+ professionals include:
- Finance/Banking: 15-25% above average
- Technology: 10-20% above average
- Defense/Government Contracting: 10-20% above average
- Healthcare: 5-15% above average
- Retail/Hospitality: At or below average
Security+ Salary vs Other Certifications
How does CompTIA Security+ salary compare to other popular IT and cybersecurity certifications? Here's a realistic comparison to help you understand where Security+ fits in the certification landscape.
CompTIA Certification Salary Comparison
- CompTIA A+: $45,000 - $65,000
- CompTIA Network+: $55,000 - $75,000
- CompTIA Security+: $65,000 - $95,000
- CompTIA CySA+: $75,000 - $110,000
- CompTIA PenTest+: $80,000 - $115,000
- CompTIA CASP+: $95,000 - $135,000
Security+ vs Industry Certifications
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): $70,000 - $100,000
- CCNA Security: $70,000 - $95,000
- SSCP: $75,000 - $105,000
- CISSP: $100,000 - $150,000
Security+ offers excellent value for entry-to-intermediate professionals. It's more accessible than CISSP (which requires 5 years experience) while commanding better salaries than general IT certifications.
How to Maximize Your Security+ Earning Potential
Having Security+ certification is just the starting point. Here's how to maximize your CompTIA Security+ salary potential throughout your career.
Build Practical Skills
Certifications open doors, but skills keep you employed and advancing. Focus on building real expertise in:
- SIEM platforms (Splunk, QRadar, Azure Sentinel)
- Endpoint detection and response tools
- Cloud security (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Scripting and automation (Python, PowerShell)
- Incident response procedures
Strategic Certification Stacking
Plan your certification path strategically. After Security+, consider:
- For SOC/Analyst Track: CySA+ → GCIH → CISSP
- For Offensive Security: PenTest+ → CEH → OSCP
- For Cloud Security: Cloud+ → AWS Security Specialty → CCSP
- For Management: CySA+ → CISM → CISSP
Negotiate Effectively
Many Security+ professionals leave money on the table by not negotiating. Tips for better offers:
- Research salary ranges thoroughly before interviews
- Highlight specific skills and certifications, not just job titles
- Consider total compensation - not just base salary
- Be willing to walk away from lowball offers
- Negotiate sign-on bonuses if base salary is fixed
Consider the Government/Defense Path
If you're eligible for security clearance, government and defense contractor positions often pay premium rates for Security+ certified professionals. The D.C. metro area alone has thousands of positions requiring Security+ as a baseline.
Fast-Track Your Certification
Need help passing your Security+ exam quickly? Our expert team has helped thousands of IT professionals achieve their certification goals. Learn how we can help with your Security+ certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts on Security+ Salary Potential
So is CompTIA Security+ worth it from a salary perspective? Looking at the data, I'd say absolutely - especially if you're serious about a cybersecurity career. The certification provides a solid salary floor that exceeds most entry-level IT positions, and the ceiling is high for those who continue developing their skills.
The cybersecurity skills gap isn't going away anytime soon. With hundreds of thousands of unfilled positions in the U.S. alone, Security+ certified professionals will continue to command competitive salaries. Whether you're earning $55,000 in your first SOC analyst role or pushing six figures as a senior security engineer, the investment in certification pays dividends throughout your career.
The key is to view Security+ as a foundation, not a destination. Keep building skills, stack relevant certifications, and don't be afraid to negotiate for what you're worth. The demand for security talent isn't slowing down, and neither should your career growth.
Ready to take the next step? Contact our team to learn how we can help you achieve your Security+ certification and start earning what you deserve.