Cyber security salaries in arizona
Arizona has several qualities that make it an attractive destination for cyber security professionals. These include the state's emerging as a growing tech hub, particularly in cities like Phoenix and Tucson. Arizona's supportive business environment, access to talent from universities and initiatives promoting innovation have contributed to the growth of the tech sector. Arizona also hosts various government agencies, military installations, and defense contractors, which require robust cyber security measures to safeguard classified information, national security interests and critical infrastructure.
Finally, Arizona fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, with initiatives aimed at bringing together industry, academia and government to address cyber security challenges. Collaborative efforts, such as cyber security research centers, industry partnerships and innovation hubs, may create opportunities for cyber security professionals to network, learn and contribute to cutting-edge initiatives. All of these factors may contribute to healthy salaries and job opportunities for cyber security graduates.
Quick stats on cyber security salaries in Arizona
There are roughly 3,690 people employed as information security analysts in Arizona. This means that for every 1,000 people living in Arizona, about 1.2 people is an information security analyst says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median wage per hour is $52 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 31.5%.
Arizona predominantly hires for a variety of cyber security roles across different industries and sectors:
- Cyber security analyst: Cyber security analysts play a crucial role in monitoring, detecting and responding to security incidents and threats. They analyze security data, investigate security breaches and implement security controls to protect organizations' systems, networks and data.
- Security engineer: Security engineers design, implement and maintain security infrastructure and systems to protect against cyber threats. They deploy security solutions such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and endpoint protection tools, and conduct security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and mitigate risks.
- Incident responder: Incident responders are responsible for rapidly responding to cyber security incidents, containing the damage and restoring normal operations. They investigate security breaches, coordinate incident response efforts and develop incident response plans to minimize the impact of cyber attacks.
- Penetration tester: Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, assess the security posture of organizations by simulating cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in systems, applications and networks. They conduct penetration testing, vulnerability assessments and security audits to help organizations improve their security defenses.
- Security architect: Security architects design and implement security architectures and solutions to protect organizations' IT infrastructure and data assets. They develop security policies, standards and procedures, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that security requirements are integrated into the design of systems and applications.
- Threat intelligence analyst: Threat intelligence analysts gather, analyze and disseminate threat intelligence to help organizations anticipate, detect and respond to cyber threats. They monitor emerging threats, conduct research on threat actors and tactics and provide actionable intelligence to enhance organizations' security posture.
- Cyber security consultant: Cyber security consultants provide advisory services to organizations on cyber security strategy, risk management and compliance.
- Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst: SOC analysts monitor and analyze security alerts and incidents in a Security Operations Center (SOC) to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time. They triage security events, investigate suspicious activities and escalate incidents as necessary to mitigate potential risks.
These are just a few examples of the cyber security roles that are in demand in Arizona. As organizations across various industries continue to prioritize cyber security, the demand for professionals with expertise in these roles is expected to remain high. All or some of these roles may be utilized by these Arizona-based corporations:
- Raytheon Technologies, Tucson, AZ:
- Raytheon Technologies is a major aerospace and defense contractor with a significant presence in Arizona. The company hires cyber security professionals for roles such as cyber security analysts, security engineers and information assurance specialists. These professionals work on securing defense systems, critical infrastructure and sensitive information.
- Honeywell Aerospace, Phoenix, AZ:
- Honeywell Aerospace, headquartered in Phoenix, is a leading provider of aerospace products and services. The company hires cyber security professionals for roles such as cyber security architects, threat intelligence analysts and incident responders. These professionals focus on securing aviation systems, industrial control systems and connected devices.
- Bank of America, Phoenix, AZ:
- Bank of America operates a significant technology and operations center in Phoenix, employing cyber security professionals to protect financial data, systems and customer information. Roles include cyber security analysts, information security engineers and risk managers responsible for maintaining the bank's cyber security.
- Arizona Public Service (APS), Phoenix, AZ:
- Arizona Public Service (APS) is the largest electric utility provider in Arizona, serving millions of customers. The company hires cyber security professionals to safeguard critical infrastructure, power generation facilities and energy distribution systems from cyber threats. Roles include cyber security specialists, network security engineers and threat hunters.
- Microchip Technology, Chandler, AZ:
- Microchip Technology is a leading provider of semiconductor solutions for various industries. The company hires cyber security professionals to ensure the security of its products, embedded systems and IoT devices. Roles include cyber security engineers, firmware security analysts and product security specialists.
Arizona cyber security salary statistics
While the median salary for cyber security professionals—a category that includes information security analysts, security engineers and architects, penetration testers and incident responders, QA testers, data analysts, information systems managers and a number of other tech fields—is $120,360 a year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, what certifications you have earned, and your level of education.
Compare national salaries for different cyber security fields below:
Median information security analyst salary in Arizona
The median annual salary for information security analysts in Arizona is $108,440, lower than the national average. However, it's important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state, and Arizona has a generally lower cost of living average.
10%$65,040
25%$83,240
50%$108,440Median
75%$135,300
90%$167,260
Median Hourly Wage$52
Job growth31.5%
Total Employment3,690
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ | $116,250 | $66,780 | $167,380 |
| Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ | $102,190 | $55,250 | $135,440 |
| Yuma, AZ | $102,030 | $72,920 | $134,440 |
| Tucson, AZ | $86,260 | $54,710 | $127,690 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 median salary; projected job growth through 2032. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Ranges for cyber security salaries in Arizona
These salary ranges are meant to provide a general understanding of the compensation levels for cyber security professionals in Arizona. Actual salaries may vary based on individual qualifications, employer, location and other factors. The BLS makes general estimates of the following salary ranges for the most common cyber security roles in Arizona:
| Cyber security analyst: | Entry-Level: $60,000–$80,000 Mid-Level: $80,000–$110,000 Senior-Level: $100,000–$140,000 |
| Security engineer: | Entry-Level: $70,000–$90,000 Mid-Level: $90,000–$120,000 Senior-Level: $110,000–$150,000 |
| Incident responder: | Entry-Level: $65,000–$85,000 Mid-Level: $85,000–$110,000 Senior-Level: $105,000–$140,000 |
| Penetration tester: | Entry-Level: $70,000–$90,000 Mid-Level: $90,000–$120,000 Senior-Level: $110,000–$150,000 |
| Security architect: | Entry-Level: $80,000–$100,000 Mid-Level: $100,000–$130,000 Senior-Level: $120,000–$160,000 |
| Threat intelligence analyst: | Entry-Level: $70,000–$90,000 Mid-Level: $90,000–$120,000 Senior-Level: $110,000–$150,000 |
| SOC analyst: | Entry-Level: $60,000–$80,000 Mid-Level: $80,000–$110,000 Senior-Level: $100,000–$140,000 |
Pay by metro area in AZ
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. Cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas, and if your city is an industry hub, such as Tucson or Phoenix, which have finance, aerospace and technology industries, pay may be more competitive. The BLS doesn't have any Arizona cities in its top 10 for the highest pay for information security analysts, or for the highest employment level. Here's what the BLS reports as the highest paying cities in the U.S.
And the top 10 highest employers of information security analysts by metro area:
AZ salary growth and job outlook for cyber professionals
While Arizona may not rival cyber security hubs like California or Virginia in terms of sheer job numbers, it offers competitive opportunities for cyber security professionals relative to its population and economic size. The state's growing tech sector, presence of major industries and emphasis on cyber security education contribute to its attractiveness as a destination for cyber security talent.
Job growth rates for cyber security professionals may also vary across different regions within Arizona. Metropolitan areas like Phoenix and Tucson may experience faster growth rates due to their concentration of technology companies, government agencies and defense contractors. However, job opportunities for cyber security professionals may also be available in other regions of the state, driven by the need for cyber security expertise across industries.
The BLS estimates the field will grow 31.5% over the next decade, much, much faster than the national average for all other careers combined.
Factors affecting cyber security salaries
Several factors can influence your cyber security salary in Arizona, including:
- Your experience: Experience is a significant determinant of cyber security salaries. Professionals with several years of experience typically command higher salaries compared to entry-level or junior-level employees. Employers often value hands-on experience in cyber security roles, as it demonstrates proficiency in handling security challenges and mitigating cyber threats.
- Your education: The level of education and professional qualifications can impact cyber security salaries. A bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer science, information technology or a related field is often a minimum requirement for many roles. Advanced degrees such as master's degrees or doctorates can lead to higher-paying positions, especially in management or specialized areas. Additionally, obtaining industry-recognized certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) may also enhance earning potential.
- Your area of specialization: The area of specialization within cyber security can affect salaries. Professionals with expertise in high-demand areas such as cloud security, threat intelligence, penetration testing or data privacy may command higher salaries due to the scarcity of specialized talent.
- Industry and sector: Salaries in cyber security can vary depending on the industry and sector in which professionals are employed. Industries such as finance, healthcare, technology and government tend to offer competitive salaries for cyber security talent due to the sensitive nature of the data and the criticality of cyber security measures. Additionally, companies in high-profile industries or those facing heightened security risks may offer higher salaries to attract top talent.
- Company size: The size and reputation of the employer can influence cyber security salaries. Large corporations, government agencies and reputable cyber security firms may offer competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract and retain top talent. Startups and smaller companies may offer equity or other incentives in addition to base salary to compensate for lower compensation packages.
- Market demand and supply: Supply and demand dynamics within the cyber security job market also impact salaries. As the demand for cyber security professionals outpaces the supply of qualified candidates, employers may offer higher salaries and additional perks to attract talent. Conversely, an oversaturated market with an abundance of qualified professionals may lead to more competitive salary offers.
How do I know if I am paid fairly as a cyber security professional in Arizona?
By considering the above factors, cyber security professionals in Arizona can assess their earning potential and negotiate competitive compensation packages based on their skills, experience and qualifications. Additionally, staying abreast of industry trends, acquiring relevant certifications and continuously enhancing skills can further enhance earning potential in the dynamic field of cyber security.
If you think your salary is different than another employee performing the same duties or with the same job title, you can take the following steps to weigh whether you are being paid fairly:
- Do your research: Utilize online resources such as salary comparison websites, industry reports and job postings to understand the typical salary range for your position in companies similar to yours.
- Network: Talk and socialize with professionals in your field, attend industry events and join online communities to gather insights on compensation trends and benchmarks.
- Consider the reality: Realistically take into account your experience, qualifications, job responsibilities and geographic location when you compare to others' salaries.
- Use your HR department's expertise: HR professionals know the nuances of titles, tiers, job duties and salary ranges. Talk to your HR manager so you can understand where your job lies in the spectrum, and learn why someone else may be paid more than you.
- Use Arizona's Department of Labor website: Read up on labor laws and the FLSA. If you are still unsatisfied with your findings, you may consider filing a complaint on the Department of Economic Security website.
Education and training for Arizona
Education requirements for common cyber security jobs in Arizona can vary depending on the specific role, employer preferences and industry standards. However, here are typical education requirements for a few cyber security roles:
| Cyber security role | Education required |
|---|---|
| Cyber security analyst | Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer science, information technology or a related field. Some employers may accept candidates with equivalent work experience or relevant certifications in lieu of a degree. |
| Security engineer | Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer engineering, information technology or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree or specialized training in cyber security or network security. |
| Incident responder | Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer forensics, information technology or a related field. Strong understanding of cyber security principles, incident response procedures and digital forensics techniques. Some employers may require specialized training or certifications in incident response and handling cyber incidents. |
| Penetration tester | Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer science, information technology or a related field. Strong understanding of networking, operating systems and web applications. Certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) or GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) are often preferred by employers. |
| Security architect | Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer science, information technology or a related field. Advanced knowledge of security principles, architecture design and risk management. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree in cyber security or a related field, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). |
Cost of living considerations in Arizona
Arizona has a higher cost of living—6% higher—compared to the national average, and the majority of major hub cities are also higher overall. Housing is 18% higher than the national average, while healthcare is 5% lower, says RentCafe.
Take a look at cost of living for some key cities in Arizona, some of which are cyber security hubs:
| Arizona city | Cost of living % compared to national average |
|---|---|
| Tucson | 4% higher |
| Scottsdale | 13% higher |
| Phoenix | 2% higher |
| Lake Havasu City | 24% higher |
| Gilbert | 15% higher |
Groups and associations for cyber security professionals in AZ
Professional groups offer valuable opportunities for cyber security professionals in Arizona to network, collaborate and stay informed about cyber security trends, threats and best practices specific to the state's cyber security landscape. Here are just a couple groups to consider:
- Arizona InfraGard Chapter:
- InfraGard is a partnership between the FBI and members of the private sector, including cyber security professionals, to share information and intelligence related to critical infrastructure protection and cyber security threats. The Arizona InfraGard Chapter provides networking opportunities, training sessions and information sharing among cyber security professionals in the state.
- Arizona Cyber Threat Response Alliance (ACTRA):
- The Arizona Cyber Threat Response Alliance (ACTRA) is a nonprofit organization focused on enhancing cyber security collaboration and information sharing among public and private sector entities in Arizona. ACTRA provides cyber security professionals with access to threat intelligence, incident response coordination and training resources to address cyber threats effectively.
- Arizona Technology Council Cybersecurity Committee:
- The Arizona Technology Council Cybersecurity Committee brings together cyber security professionals, industry experts and thought leaders to address cyber security challenges and promote best practices in Arizona. The committee organizes networking events, educational seminars and collaborative initiatives to advance awareness and innovation in the state.
Final thoughts
Overall, Arizona offers opportunities for cyber security professionals to build rewarding careers in a dynamic and growing cyber security landscape—and earn salaries commensurate with skills, education and professional certifications. The state's supportive business climate, educational institutions offering cyber security program, and collaborative cyber security initiatives and community further contribute to its attractiveness for cyber security professionals seeking rewarding career opportunities and a growing cyber security ecosystem. To begin your exploration of cyber security programs in Arizona or elsewhere, all you need to do is click Find Schools to access bootcamps, online and classroom degree programs and certificates wherever you are in the state.
This cyber security salary guide for Arizona aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Published: April 2, 2024
Written and reported by:
Cyber Security Education Staff