The global cybersecurity workforce gap has reached 4 million unfilled positions, with average US salaries hitting $150,000 for mid-career professionals as organizations desperately compete for qualified talent.

Salary Data

Entry-level analysts start at $75,000-90,000. Mid-career engineers and architects earn $130,000-180,000. CISOs at Fortune 500 companies now command $400,000-600,000 in total compensation.

Getting Into Cybersecurity

Industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and cloud security specializations provide the fastest path. Many employers accept certifications in lieu of degrees.