Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in technology, and entry-level positions serve as the gateway to a highly rewarding career. With the rise in cyber threats, businesses are investing heavily in protecting their data, networks, and systems. Understanding the cybersecurity entry-level salary in 2026 can help aspiring professionals plan their careers, choose certifications, and negotiate competitive pay.
This guide provides detailed insights into salary ranges, factors affecting pay, experience-based earnings, job market trends, benefits, certifications, education, and comparisons with related IT roles.
Average Cybersecurity Entry-Level Salary in 2026
Entry-level cybersecurity positions are increasingly in demand, offering competitive salaries even for professionals just starting in the field.
Estimated Salary Range
| Salary Level | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Low Range | $58,000 – $65,000 |
| Average | $68,000 – $75,000 |
| High Range | $78,000 – $85,000 |
| Top Earners | $90,000+ |
Average entry-level cybersecurity salary in 2026:
👉 Approximately $70,000 – $75,000 per year
Salaries can vary based on location, certifications, education, and the specific IT sector.
Factors That Influence Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary
Several variables determine how much a beginner in cybersecurity can earn:
1. Geographic Location
Salaries are higher in cities with a strong tech presence, including:
- San Francisco, CA
- New York, NY
- Seattle, WA
- Austin, TX
2. Company Type
- Large corporations, tech firms, and finance companies generally pay more.
- Startups may offer lower base pay but additional equity or bonuses.
3. Certifications & Skills
Certifications can significantly boost starting salary (covered in detail later).
- Skills in cloud security, network security, and incident response are highly valued.
4. Education Level
- Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or IT is standard.
- Master’s or specialized degrees may start closer to the higher range.
5. Industry Focus
Certain industries pay more due to high risk, including:
- Finance & banking
- Healthcare
- Government & defense
Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary by Experience (2026)
Even within entry-level roles, slight variations in experience can impact earnings.
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 0–1 Year | $58,000 – $65,000 |
| 1–2 Years | $65,000 – $72,000 |
| 2–3 Years | $70,000 – $78,000 |
As skills grow in practical applications, such as threat analysis, firewall management, and vulnerability testing, employers are willing to offer higher compensation.
Job Market Trends for Entry-Level Cybersecurity Roles
Cybersecurity continues to be one of the most in-demand tech fields.
Key Market Trends:
- Increasing cyberattacks and ransomware incidents
- Expansion of remote work, raising network security demands
- Regulatory compliance requirements (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR)
- Rising need for cloud security specialists
- Growth in managed security service providers (MSSPs)
Hiring Outlook
Entry-level cybersecurity roles are highly available, making this field one of the most secure starting careers in tech.
Benefits Beyond Salary
Entry-level cybersecurity jobs often come with robust perks, in addition to competitive pay:
Common Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) or retirement plans
- Paid time off (PTO) and sick leave
- Professional development allowances
Additional Perks:
- Remote work flexibility
- Certification reimbursement programs
- Mentorship programs
- Performance-based bonuses
These benefits can add $10,000–$20,000+ in total annual value beyond base pay.
Certifications That Impact Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary
Certifications are crucial for beginners to stand out in this competitive field. They can increase earning potential and employability.
Popular Entry-Level Certifications:
- CompTIA Security+ – Industry-standard for cybersecurity basics
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Beginner-friendly penetration testing credential
- Cisco CyberOps Associate – Network security fundamentals
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – More advanced but achievable with prep
- AWS Certified Security – Specialty – Cloud-focused security role
Entry-level professionals with one or more certifications may earn $5,000–$15,000 more than non-certified peers.
Education Path and Salary Impact
Typical Education Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or information technology
- Strong foundation in networking, operating systems, and coding
Advanced Education Advantage:
- Master’s in cybersecurity or information security can lead to faster promotions and higher starting salaries, often $10,000+ above average for entry-level positions.
Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salary vs Related IT Roles
| IT Role | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Entry-Level | $70,000 – $75,000 |
| IT Support / Help Desk | $45,000 – $55,000 |
| Network Administrator | $65,000 – $72,000 |
| Software Developer (Junior) | $68,000 – $75,000 |
| Data Analyst / BI Analyst | $65,000 – $72,000 |
Cybersecurity entry-level positions tend to outperform general IT support roles and are competitive with junior developer positions.
Is Entry-Level Cybersecurity a Good Career in 2026?
Absolutely. With rising cyber threats, companies are prioritizing security, ensuring strong demand, career growth, and competitive pay.
Pros:
- High starting salary compared to other tech fields
- Strong job security and growth opportunities
- Clear paths for advancement into mid- and senior-level roles
- Opportunities for specialization
Considerations:
- Continuous learning required to keep up with new threats
- High responsibility even in entry-level positions
- May require irregular hours in incident response scenarios
Final Thoughts
The cybersecurity entry-level salary in 2026 reflects a field that is both lucrative and future-proof. With average salaries around $70,000–$75,000, strong benefits, and rapid growth potential, cybersecurity offers a compelling career path for technology enthusiasts. By earning certifications, gaining hands-on experience, and pursuing advanced education, entry-level professionals can maximize their salary and position themselves for a long-term, rewarding career.