Cyber security salaries in new york
New York City is a global economic hub, hosting numerous industries, including finance, healthcare, media and technology. Each of these industries requires cyber security measures to protect sensitive data, financial transactions and intellectual property. The state is primarily known for its financial industry, with Wall Street making it a prime location for cyber security professionals to protect banks, hedge funds and investment firms from cyber threats, fraud and financial crimes.
New York also has a significant healthcare sector, with hospitals, research institutions and pharmaceutical companies requiring strong cyber security to safeguard patient data, medical records and proprietary research.
With its diverse economy and population, New York presents cyber security professionals with a wide range of challenges and opportunities. From defending against sophisticated cyber attacks targeting financial institutions to addressing emerging threats in healthcare and technology, professionals in New York encounter scenarios that may help them sharpen their skills and expertise. Consequently, New York offers a dynamic and lucrative environment for cyber security specialists, with opportunities across various industries and sectors.
Quick stats on cyber security salaries in NY
There are roughly 8,710 people employed as information security analysts in New York. This makes it the fifth highest state in the U.S. for employment of information security analysts says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median wage per hour is $62 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 31.5%.
In New York, the industries that most need the services of cyber security analysts and professionals include:
- Finance:
- With Wall Street at its heart, New York is a global financial hub, home to major banks, investment firms and financial services companies.
- Healthcare:
- New York has a robust healthcare sector with hospitals, medical research institutions and pharmaceutical companies.
- Technology:
- The state boasts a bustling tech scene, with a concentration of startups, tech giants and innovation hubs.
- Media and entertainment:
- New York City is a major center for media and entertainment companies, including broadcasting, publishing and digital media.
- Education:
- The state is home to renowned universities, colleges and research institutions, driving innovation and knowledge economy.
These industries represent just a few examples of places that require cyber security expertise and skills. Now let's take a look at a few specific corporations that hire cyber security professionals in New York:
- JPMorgan Chase & Co., New York, NY:
- As one of the largest banks in the world, JPMorgan Chase employs cyber security analysts to protect its financial assets and customer data.
- Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY:
- A prominent healthcare provider in New York, Mount Sinai employs cyber security analysts to safeguard patient information and electronic medical records (EHR).
- IBM, Manhattan, NY:
- A global technology company with a significant presence in New York, IBM provides cyber security solutions and services to various industries.
- Google, New York, NY:
- Google has offices in New York City and hires cyber security analysts to protect its digital platforms, user data and infrastructure.
- Columbia University, New York, NY:
- As a leading research institution, Columbia University employs cyber security professionals to secure its networks, research data and academic resources.
- Moog, Inc., East Aurora, NY:
- Moog is a global aerospace and defense company, and they typically hire cyber security professionals to ensure the security of their systems, including those used in aviation, defense and space exploration.
Salary statistics for New York
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 security 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 cyber security analyst salary in New York
The median annual salary for information security analysts in New York is $129,790, higher than the national median. However, it's important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state, as well as cost of living. Since New York's cost of living is high, salaries may be higher to compensate. Nevertheless, the BLS ranks New York state as #3 in the U.S. for highest pay, just behind Washington and Iowa.
10%$79,020
25%$91,360
50%$129,790Median
75%$172,940
90%$211,880
Median Hourly Wage$62
Job growth31.5%
Total Employment8,710
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | $137,040 | $87,840 | $209,760 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY | $109,450 | $74,400 | $158,460 |
| Syracuse, NY | $107,880 | $67,570 | $165,460 |
| Binghamton, NY | $102,590 | $63,750 | $171,040 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | $102,390 | $65,900 | $158,150 |
| Ithaca, NY | $100,970 | $61,410 | $169,280 |
| Rochester, NY | $98,990 | $61,550 | $155,000 |
| Utica-Rome, NY | $66,940 | $49,260 | $141,190 |
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 New York
While specific salary data for cyber security jobs in New York may vary based on factors such as experience, education geographic location and industry, here are median annual salary ranges for information security analysts within the state of New York, as cited by the BLS:
| Lowest 10% | Median | Highest 10% |
| $79,020 | $129,790 | $211,880 |
Pay by metro areas of New York
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state, and logically, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas, and if your city is an industry hub, such as New York City, which has healthcare, education and tech industries, pay may be more competitive. The BLS currently ranks the New York-Newark-Jersey City metro area at #5 in its top 10 for highest pay for information security analysts in the U.S. Here's what the BLS reports as the top 10 highest paying cities in the U.S.
Up and coming cities in New York that may require cyber security expertise:
While New York City has the lion's share of industries requiring cyber security expertise, there are other areas of the state that are tech hubs, and may have a lower cost of living. Take a look at these locations:
- Rochester: Rochester has been making strides in the technology sector. With the presence of institutions like the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and the University of Rochester, along with companies like Paychex, Xerox and Harris Corporation, Rochester is developing into a major tech hub. It's particularly strong in imaging technology, optics and photonics.
- Albany: The capital of New York State, Albany has been growing its tech scene, particularly in nanotechnology and semiconductor research. The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) at SUNY Polytechnic Institute has attracted significant investment, leading to the development of the Albany Nanotech Complex, which houses various high-tech companies and research facilities.
And the top 10 highest employers of information security analysts by metro area, according to the BLS:
NY salary growth and job outlook
The job growth outlook for cyber security jobs in New York State is generally positive, reflecting the increasing importance of cyber security across industries and the growing threat landscape. Several factors contribute to this outlook:
- Increasing cyber threats: As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, organizations in New York State and beyond are prioritizing cyber security to protect their digital assets, customer data and critical infrastructure. This heightened threat environment drives demand for cyber security professionals.
- Compliance: Various regulations and compliance standards, such as GDPR, HIPAA and NYDFS cyber security regulations, require organizations to implement more robust cyber security measures.
- Expansion of digital infrastructure: The rapid expansion of digital infrastructure, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and mobile technologies increases the attack surface for cyber threats. Organizations need cyber security experts to secure these digital assets and mitigate risks.
- Industry growth: Industries such as finance, healthcare, technology and government, which are significant in New York State, are all expanding their cyber security efforts.
- Shortage of talent: There is a global shortage of cyber security talent, and New York State is no exception. Cybertalk.org says there are over four million unfilled cyber security jobs globally, and the field has a scarcity of those who possess essential skills. As organizations compete to recruit skilled cyber security professionals, job opportunities in the field are expected to continue growing.
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 NY
Several factors—including experience, education, industry, location, company size, demand and economic conditions—influence salary levels for cyber security professionals in New York. While competition for talent may be high, individuals with the right skills and qualifications may be able to negotiate favorable compensation packages. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Experience and area of expertise:
- Experienced professionals with specialized skills, certifications and expertise typically command higher salaries. Professionals with a proven track record in handling complex cyber security challenges may be able to negotiate higher compensation packages.
- Education and qualifications:
- Higher levels of education, such as master's degrees in cyber security or related fields, may lead to higher-paying positions. Additionally, industry certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) may boost earning potential.
- Industry and sector:
- Salary levels can vary significantly based on the industry and sector. For example, cyber security professionals working in finance or healthcare may earn higher salaries compared to those in non-profit organizations or government agencies.
- Location within NY:
- Within New York State, salary levels can differ based on location. Cyber security professionals working in New York City typically earn higher salaries due to the high cost of living and the concentration of large corporations and financial institutions. However, salaries in other parts of the state, such as upstate New York, may be lower.
- Demand and competition:
- High demand for cyber security professionals coupled with a limited supply of qualified candidates may drive up salaries. In New York, where industries like finance, healthcare and technology require skilled cyber security professionals, competition for talent can be fierce, leading to higher compensation offers.
- Economic conditions:
- Overall economic conditions, including market trends, industry growth rates and company budgets, can impact salary levels. In times of economic prosperity, companies may be more willing to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain talent.
How do I know if I am paid fairly as a cyber security professional in NY?
If you suspect that you are being paid less than someone else in the same role in your company, first address the situation professionally and strategically. Here are some steps you can take:
- Gather information: Before taking any action, gather information to support your claim. Document your own qualifications, skills, experience and achievements relevant to the role. Research industry salary benchmarks, including data specific to your location and level of experience. Use websites such as the BLS, Glassdoor and LinkedIn to assess salaries for similar jobs in your location.
- Evaluate performance: Honestly evaluate your performance and contributions to the organization. Highlight any exceptional achievements, projects or responsibilities that demonstrate your value to the company. Compare your performance against the individual you suspect is earning more, focusing on measurable metrics and outcomes.
- Have a conversation: Schedule a meeting with your HR manager to discuss your concerns. Approach the conversation diplomatically and professionally, focusing on facts rather than emotions. Cite specific examples of your contributions and market data to support your request for equitable compensation.
- Request a review: If appropriate, formally request a salary review or adjustment based on your performance, qualifications and market value. Provide supporting documentation, such as industry salary surveys, offer letters from competing employers, or internal salary data if available.
- Consider alternative solutions: If a salary adjustment is not immediately forthcoming, explore alternative forms of compensation or benefits that may be negotiable. This could include additional vacation days, flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities or performance-based bonuses. Be open to creative solutions that address your needs while considering the organization's budget constraints.
- Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with relevant state and federal labor laws, company policies and anti-discrimination regulations that govern compensation practices. If you still believe that you are being unfairly discriminated against, seek guidance from legal resources or employee advocacy organizations. The New York State Department of Labor dedicates pages to Wage and Hour Laws within the state, that require equitable pay for people performing the same work.
Education and training in NY
Most cyber security jobs in New York require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as cyber security. However, the specific degree requirements can vary based on the job role and employer. Here are some common degrees that are often sought after for cyber security jobs:
- Computer science:
- A degree in computer science provides a solid foundation in programming, software development and computer systems, which are all relevant to cyber security roles. Computer science programs often cover topics such as cryptography, algorithms, operating systems and database management, which are essential for understanding cyber security concepts and technologies.
- Cyber security:
- Some universities offer specialized bachelor's degrees in cyber security or information security. These programs focus specifically on topics related to cyber security, including threat analysis, risk management, security policy, digital forensics and ethical hacking.
- Information technology (IT):
- Degrees in information technology cover a broad range of topics related to computer systems, networks and information management. While not as specialized as cyber security degrees, IT programs still provide valuable knowledge and skills relevant to cyber security roles, such as network administration, system security and IT infrastructure management.
- Information systems:
- Degrees in information systems combine aspects of business management, technology and information science. Information systems programs often include coursework in cyber security, data management, information assurance and IT governance, preparing students for roles that require a blend of technical and managerial skills.
- Mathematics or statistics:
- Degrees in mathematics or statistics can be valuable for certain cyber security roles that involve data analysis, cryptography or risk assessment. These programs emphasize quantitative reasoning, problem-solving and analytical skills, which are highly relevant to cyber security positions such as cryptography analyst, data scientist or security analyst.
Cost of living considerations in New York
New York has a much higher cost of living—27% higher—compared to the national average, and the majority of major hub cities, especially Manhattan and New York City, are also higher overall. Housing is 80% higher than the national average, while healthcare is 7% higher, says RentCafe, which is why information security analyst salaries are higher than the national median.
Take a look at cost of living for some key cities in New York, many of which are cyber security industry hubs:
| New York city | Cost of living % compared to national average |
|---|---|
| Albany | 3% higher |
| New York City | 76% higher |
| Rochester | 0% higher |
| Buffalo | 5% lower |
| Manhattan | 126% higher |
Groups and associations for cyber security professionals in NY
These professional groups serve cyber security professionals by offering certification programs, professional development resources, networking opportunities and access to technical knowledge and expertise, ultimately supporting NY members in their career growth and success in the field of cyber security.
- (ISC)² (International Information System Security Certification Consortium):
- (ISC)² Long Island and (ISC)² Central New York chapters offer industry-leading certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional), which validate the expertise of cyber security professionals. Members can connect with fellow cyber security professionals through events, and online forums, facilitating knowledge-sharing and collaboration.
- ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association)—New York Metropolitan Chapter:
- ISACA New York Metropolitan chapter provides networking opportunities through local NY chapters, online communities and events, enabling members to connect with peers, share experiences and build relationships.
- CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association):
- CompTIA offers career guidance, job postings and resources to help members advance their careers in cyber security, including resume-building tips, interview preparation and career pathways information.
- IEEE Computer Society:
- IEEE Computer Society provides access to technical publications, journals and research papers covering a wide range of topics in cyber security, enabling members to stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in the field. The society also holds conferences, workshops and events focused on cyber security, providing opportunities for members to present research, exchange ideas and engage with experts and practitioners in the field.
Wrapping up
In New York, cyber security salaries reflect the state's status as a major economic and technological hub. With the increasing demand for skilled professionals to protect against evolving cyber threats, salaries for roles in this field tend to be competitive. Pursuing education, such as earning relevant degrees and certifications, can significantly enhance one's qualifications and marketability for cyber security roles in New York. Advanced degrees in cyber security or related fields, coupled with industry-recognized certifications like CISSP or CISM, not only validate expertise but also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Additionally, educational programs often provide practical experience, networking opportunities and access to resources that can help individuals gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in cyber security careers in New York state. By investing in education and staying abreast of industry trends and best practices, individuals can position themselves for lucrative cyber security roles and contribute to the security and resilience of organizations across New York's diverse economic landscape.
This cyber security salary guide for New York 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