Cyber security salaries in north carolina
When you think of cyber security hotspots, North Carolina might not be the first state that comes to mind. However, this Southern gem is quickly emerging as a surprising entry into the ranks of states hiring top-tier talent in the cyber security arena. With its unique blend of innovation, industry diversity and strategic location, North Carolina is poised to become a player in the cyber security landscape.
North Carolina's appeal lies in its tech sector, robust economy and strategic partnerships between industry, academia and government. With major metropolitan areas like Raleigh, Durham and Charlotte leading the way, the state is home to an infrastructure of technology companies, research institutions and government agencies—all of which rely heavily on cyber security measures to safeguard their digital assets.
Quick stats on cyber security salaries in NC
Given North Carolina's diverse industries, several cyber security specialties are particularly relevant in the state. These include:
- Healthcare cyber security: With a strong healthcare presence, including major research hospitals and pharmaceutical companies, there is a growing need for cyber security professionals with expertise in healthcare compliance, electronic health records (EHR) security and medical device security.
- Defense and aerospace cyber security: North Carolina's strong presence in the defense and aerospace industries necessitates specialized cyber security expertise to protect sensitive military data, aerospace systems and defense contractors' networks from cyber threats.
There are roughly 7,330 people employed as information security analysts in North Carolina. This means that for every 1,000 people living in North Carolina, 1.5 are information security analysts, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median wage per hour is $61 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 31.5%.
Here are just five major employers for cyber security analysts and workers in the state:
- Cisco Systems, Inc., Raleigh, NC:
- As a global leader in networking and cyber security solutions, Cisco employs cyber security professionals to develop and secure its cutting-edge technologies.
- IBM (Research Triangle Park), Durham, NC:
- IBM's Research Triangle Park campus is a hub for cyber security research and development, with a focus on cloud security, threat intelligence and advanced analytics.
- Bank of America, Charlotte, NC:
- As one of the largest financial institutions in the U.S., Bank of America relies on cyber security protocols and measures to protect its digital assets, customer data and financial transactions.
- SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC:
- SAS Institute specializes in analytics software and solutions, including cyber security analytics and fraud detection, which require cyber security professionals to enforce the security of its products and services.
- Duke University Health System, Durham, NC:
- Duke University Health System employs cyber security professionals to protect patient information, medical records and healthcare systems from cyber threats in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
NC cyber security salary statistics
While the median salary for cyber security professionals—a category that the BLS lumps under information security analysts—also includes SOC analysts, penetration testers and incident responders, QA testers, data analysts, information systems managers and a number of other areas—is $120,360 a year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 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 median national salaries for some cyber security fields, as reported by the BLS, below:
Median salary for information security analysts in North Carolina
The median annual salary for information security analysts in NC is $125,930, higher than the national median. It's important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state, however, but combined with the fact that North Carolina has a generally lower cost of living average, along with a higher median salary makes the state a great destination for cyber security professionals and students.
10%$72,940
25%$99,710
50%$125,930Median
75%$158,850
90%$182,090
Median Hourly Wage$61
Job growth31.5%
Total Employment7,330
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | $135,720 | $78,730 | $190,210 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | $133,550 | $81,320 | $187,510 |
| Winston-Salem, NC | $127,350 | $67,040 | $179,270 |
| Greensboro-High Point, NC | $125,640 | $65,000 | $189,400 |
| Raleigh, NC | $124,140 | $77,910 | $183,350 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC | $122,670 | $64,600 | $165,270 |
| Fayetteville, NC | $105,140 | $63,000 | $166,980 |
| Wilmington, NC | $102,130 | $63,160 | $166,670 |
| Jacksonville, NC | $100,350 | $57,770 | $161,950 |
| Greenville, NC | $99,960 | $64,340 | $135,320 |
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.
According to the BLS, median annual salaries for other cyber security roles in North Carolina are as follows:
- Computer and Information systems managers: $164,210
- Quality assurance testers and penetration testers: $99,320
- Security architects: $120,660
Ranges for cyber security salaries in NC
The salary range for cyber and information security professionals in North Carolina typically spans from $72,940 for the lowest 10% to $182,090 for the top 10% in the field per year, says the BLS. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as experience, education, professional certifications and time in the position.
Pay by metro areas of North Carolina
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say for example you work in Raleigh, Charlotte or Durham, which are hubs for tech, education and healthcare, pay may be more competitive. The BLS ranks the Charlotte area at #4 in its top 10 for highest pay for information security analysts, and as far as non-metro areas in NC, Piedmont has the fourth highest level of employment for information security analysts in the U.S. Here's what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S.
And the top 10 highest employers of information security analysts by metro area:
Salary growth and job outlook
As North Carolina continues to solidify its position as a technology and innovation hub, the need for cyber security professionals has never been greater. From protecting sensitive data in the financial sector to securing critical infrastructure in healthcare and defense, cyber security professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding North Carolina's digital ecosystem against ever-evolving threats.
Here are some areas where cyber security specialists are especially in demand:
- Research Triangle Park (RTP): Located in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area, RTP is a renowned technology and research hub that houses numerous technology companies, research institutions and government agencies.
- Banking and financial services: Charlotte, known as the banking capital of the South, is home to major financial institutions such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Truist Financial.
- Healthcare: With prominent healthcare systems and research hospitals like Duke University Health System and UNC Health Care, North Carolina's healthcare industry requires cyber security specialists to safeguard electronic health records, medical devices and patient information.
- Defense and aerospace: North Carolina is home to military installations such as Fort Bragg and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, as well as defense contractors and aerospace companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.
- Higher education: Several prestigious universities and research institutions are in NC, including Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University. These institutions require cyber security specialists to protect research data, intellectual property and student information from cyber attacks and data breaches.
- Technology companies: North Carolina's tech sector, including companies like Red Hat, SAS Institute and Epic Games, provides opportunities for cyber security specialists to develop and implement solutions for software development, cloud computing and emerging technologies.
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 NC
Several factors influence how much you can earn in cyber security roles in NC:
- Education and experience: Higher levels of education and relevant work experience often correlate with higher salaries in the cyber security field. Advanced degrees, industry certifications and hands-on experience in specific cyber security specialties may command higher compensation.
- Skills and certifications: Specialized skills and certifications in areas such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, cloud security, and regulatory compliance can increase your market value and earning potential. Employers often seek candidates with certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).
- Industry and sector: Salaries may vary based on the industry and sector in which you work.
- Location: Geographic location within North Carolina can impact salary levels due to differences in cost of living and demand for cyber security talent. Metropolitan areas like Raleigh, Durham and Charlotte may offer higher salaries to offset a higher cost of living and competition for talent.
- Company size and type: Larger companies and organizations may offer higher salaries and benefits packages compared to smaller firms.
Entry-level positions may have more competition due to a larger pool of candidates, while specialized roles requiring advanced skills and experience may have less competition but higher qualifications requirements.
Overall, while there may be competition for certain cyber security roles in North Carolina, the strong demand for skilled professionals in the field presents ample opportunities for those with the right qualifications and expertise to secure well-compensated positions. Continuing education, obtaining relevant certifications and staying updated on industry trends can help you remain competitive and maximize your earning potential in the field.
How do I know if I am paid fairly as a cyber security professional in North Carolina?
Determining whether you are being paid fairly in North Carolina, or any state for that matter, involves research and considering various factors such as industry standards, your qualifications and experience and the cost of living in your area. Additionally, understanding the state and federal laws that protect employee wages is critical. Here's how to evaluate fair pay, relevant laws and educational requirements for cyber security jobs in the state:
Evaluate fair pay:
- Research: Use online job and salary comparison websites (such as LinkedIn), industry reports from the BLS and O*NET and local job postings to assess the typical salary range for your position.
- Network: Engage with professionals in the field by attending industry meetups and join online communities to discuss compensation trends and benchmarks.
- Consider: Honestly take into account your experience, qualifications, job responsibilities and geographic location within NC when assessing your pay.
Wage protection laws:
- Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): The federal FLSA provides standards for minimum wage, overtime pay and protections for employees at the federal level.
- State labor laws: The North Carolina Equal Pay Act prohibits discrimination by gender when it comes to fair and equal wages. The NC department of Labor allows you to file a complaint if you feel you are not being paid fairly.
Education and training
To work in cyber security in North Carolina, a combination of education, certifications and professional development is typically required to enter and advance in the field. Here's a breakdown of the typical education and ongoing learning requirements:
Education
- Earn a bachelor's degree: Many entry-level positions in cyber security require a bachelor's degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, cyber security or a related discipline. A strong foundation in computer science principles, networking and systems administration is often necessary.
- Consider a master's degree: While not always required, obtaining a master's degree in cyber security, information assurance or a related field can provide advanced knowledge and specialized skills that may be advantageous for certain roles, especially in areas such as research or management.
Certifications
- Entry-level certifications: Certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are commonly sought after by employers for entry-level positions. These certifications demonstrate foundational knowledge and skills in cyber security.
- Specialized certifications: Depending on your career goals and interests, you may pursue specialized certifications in areas such as network security, cloud security, penetration testing or incident response. Examples include Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) and Certified Incident Handler (GCIH).
Professional development and continuing education:
- Ongoing learning: Cyber security is a rapidly evolving field with new threats, technologies and best practices emerging daily. Continuing education through workshops, seminars, webinars and conferences is essential to stay updated on the latest trends, tools and techniques in the field.
- Specialized training: As you advance in your career or specialize in specific areas of cyber security, you may benefit from specialized training programs or bootcamps focused on topics such as penetration testing, digital forensics or cloud security.
- Advanced degrees: Pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Cyber Security, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Information Security, or executive education programs can provide opportunities for career advancement, research opportunities and leadership roles in the field.
Cost of living considerations in NC
While North Carolina generally has a lower cost of living compared to some other states, factors such as housing, transportation, healthcare and utilities can still influence your take home pay. Salaries may vary between urban centers like Raleigh and rural areas such as Piedmont, due to differences in living expenses and available jobs.
RentCafe states that NC as a whole, averages 5% less than the national average, and housing is 14% lower than the rest of the country. Take a look at cost of living for some key cities that are cyber security hubs within North Carolina:
| North Carolina city | Cost of living % compared to national average |
|---|---|
| Charlotte | 3% lower |
| Raleigh | 2% lower |
| Durham | 0% lower/higher |
| Winston-Salem | 6% lower |
| Chapel Hill | 4% higher |
Professional associations for cyber security in North Carolina
Professional associations and groups provide valuable resources, networking opportunities and professional development support for cyber security specialists in North Carolina. Joining these associations can help professionals stay updated on industry trends, expand professional networks and may provide resources to advance careers in the field:
- North Carolina Healthcare Information and Communications Alliance (NCHICA):
- NCHICA is a non-profit consortium of over 200 organizations dedicated to promoting the effective use of information technology within the healthcare industry. While not solely focused on cyber security, NCHICA offers resources, events and networking opportunities relevant to cyber security professionals working in healthcare in North Carolina.
- Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)–Raleigh Chapter:
- The ISSA Raleigh Chapter serves cyber security professionals in the Raleigh area of North Carolina. ISSA offers networking events, educational seminars and professional development opportunities for members interested in advancing their careers in cyber security.
- ISACA–Research Triangle Chapter:
- The Research Triangle Chapter of ISACA serves IT governance, security and assurance professionals in North Carolina. ISACA offers certification training, educational events and networking opportunities for professionals interested in cyber security, IT audit, risk management and governance.
- (ISC)²–Raleigh-Durham Chapter:
- The Raleigh-Durham Chapter of (ISC)² serves cyber security professionals in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina. (ISC)² offers educational events, certification preparation courses and networking opportunities for members pursuing certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).
Wrapping up
When it comes to earning potential, salaries for cyber security specialists in North Carolina reflect the state's robust economy and strategic importance in technology and innovation. With median annual salaries ranging from competitive figures for entry-level roles to lucrative packages for seasoned professionals, the financial rewards may be just enticements for those entering or advancing in the field.
But how does one embark on this journey in cyber security? Education is the key. Whether pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science or a master's degree in cyber security, investing in your education lays the foundation for success in this ever-evolving field. Coupled with industry certifications and ongoing professional development, continuous learning is essential to stay ahead of emerging threats and technologies.
This cyber security salary guide for North Carolina 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