Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary in 2025

As cyber threats continue to grow in complexity and frequency, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. For those entering the field in 2025, understanding the salary landscape is crucial for career planning and growth. This article explores the average entry-level cybersecurity salary, factors affecting earnings, job market trends, and educational pathways that can impact your compensation.

Average Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary in 2025

The cybersecurity field is known for its competitive pay, even at entry levels. As of 2025, the average salary for entry-level cybersecurity professionals ranges from $60,000 to $85,000 annually. However, this range can vary significantly depending on location, company size, and specialization.

Lower range: Around $55,000 to $60,000 for entry-level roles in smaller markets or less technical positions.
Upper range: Up to $85,000 or slightly more in tech hubs or companies with high-security needs.

Factors Influencing Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary

Several key factors affect how much an entry-level cybersecurity professional can earn:

1. Geographic Location

Salaries are generally higher in major metropolitan areas such as San Francisco, New York, and Washington D.C., reflecting the cost of living and local demand.

2. Company Size and Industry

Large corporations and sectors like finance, healthcare, and government often offer higher salaries due to the critical nature of cybersecurity in these fields.

3. Education and Certifications

Possessing relevant degrees and certifications can significantly impact starting salaries:

Certifications: CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Cisco’s CCNA Security are highly regarded.
Degrees: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity can improve salary prospects.

4. Technical Skills and Experience

Even at entry-level, internships, relevant projects, and knowledge of key tools (e.g., SIEM, firewalls, scripting) can set candidates apart and justify higher pay.

Salary Progression with Experience

Entry-level salaries are just the starting point. As professionals gain experience, certifications, and specialized skills, their earning potential grows significantly.

1-3 years experience: $75,000 to $95,000
3-5 years experience: $90,000 to $120,000
Senior roles (5+ years): $110,000 to $150,000+

Some lead or specialized cybersecurity roles, such as Security Architects or Incident Response Leads, can command salaries well over $130,000 annually.

Job Market Trends in 2025

The cybersecurity job market continues to expand rapidly due to:

Increased cyberattacks and ransomware incidents.
Greater regulatory requirements for data protection.
Growing adoption of cloud and IoT technologies requiring robust security measures.

Demand for entry-level cybersecurity talent is especially strong as organizations aim to build security teams capable of defending against evolving threats.

Benefits Beyond Salary

Working in cybersecurity offers perks beyond the paycheck:

Job security: High demand means strong job stability.
Career growth: Clear pathways to senior roles and specialized positions.
Remote work: Many cybersecurity roles offer flexibility in location.
Continuous learning: Fast-evolving field encouraging ongoing skill development.

Key Certifications and Education to Boost Salary

To maximize salary potential as an entry-level cybersecurity professional, consider obtaining certifications such as:

CompTIA Security+ — foundational cybersecurity skills.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) — typically for experienced professionals but valuable long-term.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) — for penetration testing skills.
Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate — focused on security operations.

In addition, pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree related to cybersecurity or information technology can provide an advantage in salary negotiations.

Conclusion

The entry-level cybersecurity salary in 2025 is promising, with averages typically between $60,000 and $85,000, influenced by location, education, and certifications. With strong job growth and increasing demand, cybersecurity offers a lucrative and stable career path. Investing in certifications and gaining hands-on experience can accelerate salary growth and open doors to advanced roles in this dynamic field.

If you’re planning to start a career in cybersecurity, now is a great time to enter the industry and build a rewarding professional journey.