The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) credential is one of the most recognized certifications in networking, opening doors to a wide range of IT roles. As organizations increasingly rely on robust network infrastructure, professionals with CCNA certification are in high demand. Understanding the CCNA salary in 2026 can help professionals plan their career path, negotiate pay, and explore advancement opportunities.
This guide covers average salaries, factors affecting pay, experience-based earnings, job market trends, benefits, certifications, education impact, and comparisons with related IT certifications.
Average CCNA Salary in 2026
CCNA-certified professionals earn competitive salaries due to their specialized knowledge in networking, routing, switching, and network security.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Salary Level | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Mid-Career | $72,000 – $90,000 |
| Experienced | $95,000 – $115,000 |
| Top Earners | $120,000+ |
Average CCNA salary in 2026:
👉 Approximately $78,000 – $85,000 per year
Salaries vary by location, industry, employer, and additional certifications.
Factors Influencing CCNA Salary
Several key factors affect earnings for CCNA-certified professionals:
1. Geographic Location
Urban centers and tech hubs generally pay more due to higher demand and cost of living.
2. Industry & Employer
- IT companies, cloud service providers, and telecom firms offer higher pay
- Government and educational institutions may offer slightly lower salaries but strong benefits
3. Experience & Skill Level
Advanced networking skills, practical experience, and specialization in areas like security or cloud networking increase earning potential.
4. Additional Certifications
Holding certifications beyond CCNA can boost salary, including:
- CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional)
- CompTIA Network+
- Security+ or cloud certifications
5. Job Role & Responsibilities
- Network Administrator
- Systems Engineer
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Security Analyst
Roles requiring leadership or project management responsibilities tend to command higher pay.
CCNA Salary by Experience (2026)
Experience plays a significant role in salary growth for CCNA professionals.
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 0–2 Years | $55,000 – $65,000 |
| 3–5 Years | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| 6–10 Years | $90,000 – $105,000 |
| 10+ Years | $110,000 – $130,000 |
Gaining hands-on experience in network configuration, troubleshooting, and security management is key to moving up the pay scale.
Job Market Trends for CCNA Professionals in 2026
The demand for CCNA-certified professionals continues to grow as businesses modernize networks and adopt cloud technologies.
Key Trends Shaping the Job Market
- Migration to cloud infrastructure and hybrid networks
- Increasing cybersecurity threats driving demand for secure networks
- Growth in IoT (Internet of Things) and data centers
- Remote work requiring robust network administration
Hiring Outlook
- Network administrators, support engineers, and junior network engineers are in high demand
- Employers value CCNA-certified candidates for their proven networking foundation
Benefits and Compensation Beyond Salary
CCNA-certified professionals often receive strong benefits that add significant value to total compensation.
Common Benefits Include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plans (401k or equivalent)
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development allowances for certifications and training
- Performance bonuses and profit-sharing
Additional Perks:
- Remote work flexibility in IT roles
- Career growth opportunities into senior network engineering or architecture roles
- Access to company-sponsored tech conferences and workshops
These benefits can add an extra $10,000–$20,000 annually in overall value.
Certifications and Education That Impact CCNA Salary
High-Value Certifications in 2026
- CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) – increases salary by 15–25%
- CompTIA Security+ or Network+ – adds security and troubleshooting credibility
- Cloud certifications (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) – enhances network roles in hybrid environments
Education Impact
- A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or networking often increases starting salary
- Advanced degrees like a master’s in IT or cybersecurity can lead to higher management or architect-level positions
CCNA Salary vs Related IT Certifications (2026)
| Certification/Role | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| CCNA | $78,000 – $85,000 |
| CCNP | $95,000 – $110,000 |
| CompTIA Network+ | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| AWS Certified Solutions Architect | $105,000 – $120,000 |
| Security+ | $70,000 – $85,000 |
CCNA provides a strong foundation and opens the door to higher-paying certifications like CCNP or specialized cloud and security certifications.
Is a CCNA Career a Good Choice in 2026?
Yes. CCNA certification is highly respected in the IT industry and offers:
- Competitive salary potential
- Strong job security in multiple industries
- Clear pathways to advanced certifications and roles
- Opportunities for specialization in network security, cloud, and infrastructure
Pros:
- High entry-level pay for certified professionals
- In-demand skills across multiple industries
- Opportunity to grow into senior or managerial roles
Considerations:
- Ongoing training and certification updates required
- High responsibility for network performance and security
- Fast-paced, sometimes high-pressure work environment
Final Thoughts
The CCNA salary in 2026 reflects the increasing importance of networking professionals in the IT landscape. With average salaries around $78,000–$85,000, strong growth potential, and career flexibility, CCNA certification provides both financial and professional advantages.
By gaining experience, pursuing advanced certifications like CCNP, and staying current with industry trends, CCNA-certified professionals can maximize their earning potential and secure a rewarding, long-term career in networking.