In 2025, cybersecurity continues to be one of the most in-demand fields globally. Among the foundational certifications, CompTIA Security+ stands out as a valuable credential for both entry-level and intermediate cybersecurity professionals. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to benchmark your earnings, understanding the CompTIA Security+ salary in 2025 can help guide your career decisions.
What Is the Average CompTIA Security+ Salary in 2025?
As of mid-2025, the average salary for professionals with a CompTIA Security+ certification in the United States ranges between $72,000 and $103,000 per year. This range can vary widely depending on several key factors such as location, experience, job role, and additional certifications.
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Entry-Level Professionals: $58,000 – $72,000
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Mid-Level Professionals: $73,000 – $88,000
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Senior Roles: $90,000 – $120,000+
Some specialized roles, such as Penetration Testers (Pen Testers), can command even higher pay, especially when combined with advanced certifications and experience.
Key Factors Influencing Salary
Several elements influence your earning potential with a CompTIA Security+ certification:
1. Experience Level
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0–2 Years: $58,000–$70,000
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3–5 Years: $72,000–$85,000
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5+ Years: $90,000–$115,000+
2. Job Role
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Security Analyst: ~$82,000
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Penetration Tester: ~$96,000
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Network Security Administrator: ~$88,000
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Security Consultant: ~$102,000
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Senior Lead Navigator / IT Lead: $110,000+
3. Location
Tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, Austin, and Washington D.C. tend to offer higher salaries:
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California: +15–20% above average
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Texas & Florida: On par or slightly below national average
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Remote Roles: Vary widely based on company location and cost of living
4. Additional Certifications
Holding Security+ is often a starting point. Pairing it with other certifications can significantly increase salary:
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CompTIA CySA+
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Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
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CISSP
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AWS Certified Security – Specialty
Real-World Comparison: Security+ vs. Other Roles
To give you a broader perspective, here’s how Security+ professionals stack up compared to other tech roles:
Job Title | Average Salary (2025) |
---|---|
Security+ Certified Pro | $72,000 – $103,000 |
SAP Consultant (Ref Level) | $110,000 – $140,000 |
Peloton Instructor (Top Tier)* | $150,000+ |
Pen Tester (with certs) | $95,000 – $120,000 |
*Note: Highly dependent on fame, experience, and media exposure
What You Take Home for a $103K Salary
If you’re making $103,000 annually, your take-home pay after taxes in most U.S. states will be approximately:
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Federal + State Taxes: ~$22,000 – $28,000
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Net Take-Home (Annually): ~$75,000 – $81,000
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Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$6,250 – $6,750
This amount allows a comfortable lifestyle, especially if you work remotely or in a lower-cost state.
Job Market Outlook
The cybersecurity industry is booming, and CompTIA Security+ remains one of the top certifications recognized globally. According to industry projections:
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Cybersecurity job postings are expected to grow by 11% by 2026
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Over 700,000 unfilled cybersecurity roles in the U.S. as of 2025
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Security+ is frequently listed as a required or preferred credential for entry- to mid-level roles
Benefits of Earning Security+
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Foundation for Advanced Roles: Ideal stepping stone to more advanced certifications
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DoD 8570 Compliance: Required for many government roles
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Vendor-Neutral: Opens doors to diverse roles across different platforms
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Cost-Effective: Compared to other certifications, it’s affordable with high ROI
Certifications That Boost Your Security+ Salary
To maximize your salary potential, consider adding the following certifications to your resume:
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CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)
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Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
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Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
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Microsoft SC-900 / Azure Security Certs
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AWS/Azure Security Certifications
These credentials can increase your salary by 10–30%, especially when combined with relevant experience.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, CompTIA Security+ continues to be a powerful and respected credential in the cybersecurity space. Whether you’re aiming for a new job, a promotion, or a salary negotiation, understanding your market worth and enhancing your skills through certifications can significantly improve your career trajectory.
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