Cyber security salaries in illinois
While often overshadowed by coastal tech hubs, Illinois boasts a thriving cyber security industry fueled by its unique blend of high-profile industries, bustling metro areas and prestigious educational institutions.
Illinois stands out as a cyber security hotspot for several reasons. First, the state's diverse economy encompasses a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing and technology, all of which rely heavily on cyber defenses to protect sensitive data and operations. Additionally, with Chicago being a major financial hub and home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, the demand for skilled cyber security professionals is ever-present.
Quick stats on cyber security salaries in Illinois
There are roughly 4,450 people employed as information security analysts in Illinois. This means that for every 1,000 people living in in the state, less than one is an information security analyst says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median wage per hour is $56 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 31.5%.
Illinois' prominent industries, such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing and technology, give rise to specialized cyber security roles tailored to their unique needs. For instance, financial institutions require experts in fraud detection and risk management, while healthcare organizations seek professionals well-versed in HIPAA compliance and electronic medical record security. All or some of these roles may be utilized by these Illinois-based corporations:
- JPMorgan Chase & Co., Chicago, IL:
- As one of the largest financial institutions globally, JPMorgan Chase relies on cyber security professionals to protect its digital assets and customer data.
- Abbott Laboratories, Lake Bluff, IL:
- A leading healthcare company, Abbott Laboratories employs cyber security professionals to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of patient information.
- Boeing, Chicago. IL:
- With its headquarters in Chicago, Boeing employs cyber security professionals to safeguard its aerospace and defense systems against cyber threats.
- Allstate Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL:
- Allstate, one of the largest insurance providers in the United States, hires cyber security professionals to protect its digital infrastructure and customer information.
- United Airlines, Chicago, IL:
- United Airlines relies on cyber security professionals to secure its digital platforms and flight operations against cyber threats.
Salary statistics for Illinois cyber professionals
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, SOC analysts 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 Illinois
The median annual salary for information security analysts in Illinois is $116,800, just slightly 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 Illinois has a generally lower than the national average cost of living overall.
10%$67,460
25%$87,240
50%$116,800Median
75%$138,890
90%$172,120
Median Hourly Wage$56
Job growth31.5%
Total Employment4,450
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $115,480 | $67,210 | $177,540 |
| Springfield, IL | $103,760 | $69,530 | $156,470 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $92,580 | $69,560 | $130,510 |
| Peoria, IL | $81,390 | $51,400 | $134,290 |
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 Illinois
These salary ranges—pulled from the BLS and its subsidiary, O*NET—are approximate and can vary based on factors such as level of experience, education, certifications, specific industry and geographic location within Illinois. Additionally, salaries in metropolitan areas like Chicago may be higher compared to other regions within the state due to differences in cost of living and demand for cyber security talent.
| Cyber security analyst: | Entry-Level: $64,180 Mid-Level: $108,510 Senior-Level: $161,250 |
| Security engineer: | Entry-Level: $52,260 Mid-Level: $90,970 Senior-Level: $140,060 |
| Data protection officer (compliance): | Entry-Level: $47,110 Mid-Level: $79,470 Senior-Level: $156,250 |
| Penetration tester: | Entry-Level: $52,260 Mid-Level: $90,900 Senior-Level: $140,000 |
| QA tester: | Entry-Level: $59,400 Mid-Level: $91,590 Senior-Level: $135,600 |
Pay by Illinois metro area
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 Chicago, Evanston or Dearborn, which have finance, education, healthcare and technology industries, pay may be more competitive. The BLS doesn't list any Illinois cities in its top 10 for highest pay for information security analysts, or for highest employment level. Here's what the BLS does report as highest paying cities in the U.S.:
And the top 10 highest employers of information security analysts by metro area:
IL salary growth and job outlook
In Illinois, the growth of cyber security jobs may vary depending on factors such as industry concentration, technological advancements and regional economic development initiatives. While certain areas may experience faster growth in cyber security employment compared to others, it's essential to consider key factors driving this trend. Here are some areas within Illinois where cyber security jobs may be growing faster:
- Chicago metropolitan area:
- As the largest city in Illinois and a major financial hub, the Chicago metropolitan area offers a diverse ecosystem for cyber security professionals. With numerous Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, healthcare organizations and tech firms headquartered in Chicago, there is a high demand for cyber security talent to protect digital assets and sensitive information. Additionally, Chicago's startup scene contributes to the increasing demand for cyber security expertise.
- Champaign-Urbana area:
- Home to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign-Urbana is recognized as an emerging technology hub in Illinois. The presence of research institutions, technology companies and government agencies in the area fosters innovation and drives demand for cyber security professionals. Furthermore, initiatives such as the Illinois Cyber Security Scholars Program aim to attract and retain top cyber security talent in the region, contributing to job growth in this field.
- Research Triangle Park (RTP):
- While technically located in North Carolina, the Research Triangle Park (RTP) is a renowned technology and research hub that spans across multiple states, including Illinois. Illinois-based companies with a presence in RTP or partnerships with organizations in the area may create opportunities for cyber security professionals to work on cutting-edge research and development projects.
- Suburban tech corridors:
- Suburban areas surrounding Chicago, such as Schaumburg, Naperville and Oak Brook, are home to numerous technology companies, corporate headquarters and research institutions. These suburban tech corridors may witness significant growth in cyber security jobs as businesses prioritize cyber security measures to protect against threats and data breaches.
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 in IL
Several factors can influence your cyber security salary in Illinois, including:
- Education and experience: Higher levels of education and relevant work experience often command higher salaries in the cyber security field. Advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctoral degree in cyber security or a related field, may lead to increased earning potential.
- Skillset and specialization: Specialized skills and certifications in areas such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, or cloud security may increase market value and salary prospects for cyber security professionals.
- Industry and sector: Salaries may vary based on the industry and sector in which a cyber security professional works. For example, professionals in finance and healthcare may earn higher salaries compared to those in government or education.
- Company size and location: Larger companies and organizations often offer higher salaries and benefits packages than smaller firms. Additionally, salaries may vary based on geographic location within Illinois, with urban areas like Chicago typically offering higher compensation to offset the higher cost of living.
- Demand and competition: Supply and demand dynamics play a significant role in determining cyber security salaries. Areas with high demand for cyber security talent and limited supply may offer higher salaries to attract and retain skilled professionals.
What can I do about fair pay as a cyber security professional in Illinois?
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 assess whether you are being paid fairly:
- Research salary data: Utilize resources such as salary surveys, industry reports, and online platforms like Glassdoor or PayScale to benchmark salaries for specific cyber security roles in Illinois.
- Network and seek advice: Engage with professional networks, mentorship programs and industry associations to gain insights into salary trends and market conditions. Networking with peers and industry professionals can provide valuable guidance on fair compensation.
- Evaluate your total compensation package: Consider not only base salary but also additional benefits, such as bonuses, stock options and professional development opportunities when assessing overall compensation fairness.
- Watch for red flags: Disparities in pay compared to industry benchmarks, unequal pay for similar roles within the organization and lack of transparency regarding salary structures in your company may indicate potential issues with fairness. You can file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor if you feel there is a disparity, as Illinois adheres to the Equal Pay Act of 2003.
Education and training in Illinois
Education requirements for common cyber security jobs can vary depending on the role, employer and job level. However, here are typical education requirements for a few cyber security roles:
| Cyber security role | Education required |
|---|---|
| Cyber security analyst | Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, cyber security or a related field. |
| Security engineer | Bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, information technology or cyber security. |
| Incident responder | Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer forensics, information technology or a related field. |
| Penetration tester | Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology or cyber security, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP). |
| Security architect | Bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, information technology or cyber security, with specialized training or certifications such as the Information Systems Security Architecture Professional (ISSAP). |
The importance of certifications and how to earn them
Certifications play a crucial role in validating skills and expertise in the cyber security field. Professional certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), are highly regarded by employers in Illinois and globally.
To obtain certifications, individuals can pursue various avenues, including:
- Bootcamps and training programs: Attend bootcamps, training courses and workshops offered by reputable organizations and training providers.
- Self-study and exam preparation: Utilize study materials, practice exams and online resources to prepare for certification exams independently.
- Professional associations and groups: Join professional cyber security groups and associations, such as ISACA, (ISC)² and CompTIA, which offer certification preparation resources, study groups and networking opportunities.
Cost of living in Illinois
Illinois has a lower cost of living—8% lower—compared to the national average, and the majority of major hub cities, except for Chicago, are also lower. Housing is 22% lower than the national average, while healthcare is 6% lower, says RentCafe.
Take a look at cost of living for some key cities in Illinois, some of which are cyber security industry hubs:
| Illinois city | Cost of living % compared to national average |
|---|---|
| Chicago | 14% higher |
| Carbondale | 8% lower |
| Champaign | 10% lower |
| Springfield | 10% lower |
| Decatur | 22% lower |
Groups and associations for cyber security professionals in IL
Joining professional groups offers cyber security professionals an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, access valuable resources, look to advance their careers and contribute to the growth and development of the profession. By actively participating in these groups, cyber security professionals can expand their networks, enhance their skills and stay at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field. Here are a few professional groups in Illinois:
- ISACA Chicago Chapter:
- Provides networking events, educational seminars and certification training programs for cyber security professionals in the Chicago area.
- (ISC)² Chicago Chapter:
- Offers networking opportunities, professional development events and certification preparation resources for (ISC)² members in Illinois.
- Chicago Cyber Security Meetup:
- Organizes regular meetups, workshops and conferences for cyber security professionals and enthusiasts in the Chicago metropolitan area.
- ISSA Illinois Chapter:
- Hosts meetings, workshops and training sessions focused on cyber security best practices, industry trends and professional development opportunities in Illinois.
Final thoughts
Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced world of penetration testing, the strategic realm of security architecture or the meticulous work of information security analysis, there may be a role for you in Illinois' cyber security landscape.
But how do you take the first step toward a fulfilling career in cyber security? Education is the key. By investing in your skills and knowledge through education, you can unlock doors to exciting opportunities in this rapidly growing field. Ready to take the leap? Explore our education programs and start your journey toward a successful career in cyber security today. Your future awaits.
This cyber security salary guide for Illinois 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.
Written and reported by:
Cyber Security Education Staff