Cyber security salaries in ohio
Cyber security, once a niche specialty in the technology world, has rapidly become one of the most critical fields in today's digital landscape. With cyber threats evolving constantly, the demand for skilled cyber security professionals has skyrocketed.
Ohio, often overlooked in the tech sphere, is quietly emerging as a hotspot for cyber security workers, offering lucrative opportunities and a vibrant ecosystem. Here's what makes Ohio special in the realm of cyber security, and why the state offers promising salaries to cyber security professionals with the right qualifications.
Quick stats on cyber security salaries in Ohio
Ohio has several factors that make it desirable for cyber security professionals:
- Growing tech sector: Ohio has a growing technology sector, with cities like Columbus, Cincinnati and Cleveland emerging as tech hubs. These cities host various tech companies, including those focused on cyber security.
- Presence of major companies: Ohio is home to many large corporations across different industries, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing and retail. These companies often have significant cyber security needs, leading to a demand for skilled professionals in the field.
- Strong education institution presence: Ohio boasts several universities and colleges with cyber security programs, such as Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati and Case Western Reserve University.
- Government initiatives: The state government of Ohio has been proactive in promoting cyber security initiatives. This includes investing in cyber security infrastructure and partnering with businesses and educational institutions to foster talent.
- Cost of living: Ohio generally has a lower cost of living compared to tech hubs like Silicon Valley or New York City. This can make it an attractive location for cyber security professionals, offering a good balance between salary and living expenses.
- Quality of life: Ohio offers a diverse range of urban and rural environments, providing options for individuals seeking different lifestyles. Additionally, the state offers various recreational and cultural amenities, contributing to overall quality of life.
There are roughly 5,380 people employed as information security analysts in Ohio. This means that for every 1,000 people living in Ohio, one 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 28.5%.
Due to Ohio's high-profile industries, certain specialized cyber security roles have gained prominence. For instance, the finance sector requires professionals adept at securing banking systems and protecting customer financial data. Similarly, the healthcare industry demands cyber security experts capable of safeguarding electronic medical records and ensuring compliance with regulations like HIPAA. Ohio's manufacturing sector, a cornerstone of its economy, requires cyber security professionals to defend against industrial espionage and intellectual property theft. These specialized needs create niche opportunities for cyber security professionals in Ohio. Here are just five major employers for cyber security analysts and workers in the state:
- JPMorgan Chase, Columbus, OH:
- As one of the largest financial institutions globally, JPMorgan Chase relies on cyber security professionals to fortify its digital infrastructure, safeguard customer assets and mitigate cyber risks.
- Nationwide Insurance, Columbus, OH:
- With a significant presence in the insurance sector, Nationwide Insurance recruits cyber security experts to protect sensitive customer information, prevent fraud and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Proctor & Gamble, Cincinnati, OH:
- As a consumer goods giant, Procter & Gamble prioritizes cyber security to safeguard its proprietary formulations, trade secrets and consumer data from cyber threats.
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH:
- As a renowned healthcare provider, Cleveland Clinic employs cyber security professionals to secure patient medical records, medical devices and critical healthcare infrastructure.
- Honda of America, Marysville, OH:
- Honda's manufacturing facilities in Ohio require cyber security professionals to protect proprietary manufacturing processes, vehicle designs and sensitive operational data from cyber espionage and disruption.
Ohio cyber security salary statistics
While the median salary for cyber security professionals—a category that includes information security analysts, penetration testers and incident responders, QA testers, data analysts, information systems managers and a number of other tech fields—is $124,910 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 Ohio
The median annual salary for information security analysts in Ohio is $107,570, 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 Ohio has a generally lower cost of living average.
10%$67,150
25%$83,480
50%$107,570Median
75%$137,430
90%$165,970
Median Hourly Wage$52
Job growth28.5%
Total Employment5,070
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus, OH | $120,020 | $74,760 | $172,880 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $108,000 | $67,710 | $164,620 |
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH | $107,720 | $66,130 | $165,300 |
| Cleveland, OH | $105,990 | $67,080 | $167,400 |
| Toledo, OH | $105,460 | $54,810 | $165,290 |
| Akron, OH | $101,130 | $69,090 | $160,190 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | $81,210 | $62,180 | $155,040 |
| Youngstown-Warren, OH | $70,950 | $42,340 | $117,980 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. 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.
The BLS says other areas of cyber security in Ohio have median salaries of:
- Computer and information systems managers: $163,260
- Quality assurance testers and analysts: $83,960
- Penetration testers: $104,330
- Data scientists: $98,620
Ranges for cyber security salaries in Ohio
The salary range for cyber and information security professionals in Ohio typically spans from $67,150 for the lowest 10% to $165,970 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 Ohio metro area
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 Cincinnati, Cleveland or Columbus, which are hubs for finance and healthcare, pay may be more competitive. The BLS doesn't have any Ohio cities in its top 10 for highest pay for information security analyst or for highest employment level. 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 for Ohio
Job growth for cyber security professionals in Ohio has been robust and is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The increasing reliance on digital technologies across industries, coupled with the escalating cyber threats, has created a sustained demand for cyber security expertise. However, job growth may vary depending on the location within the state due to factors such as industry concentration, economic development initiatives and local cyber security infrastructure.
- Major urban centers: Cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland, which are Ohio's major urban centers, typically experience higher demand for cyber security professionals due to their concentration of large corporations, government agencies and tech companies. These cities often have more job opportunities and higher salaries compared to rural areas.
- Industry focus: Job growth may also be influenced by the predominant industries in a particular region. For instance, areas with a strong presence of finance, healthcare or manufacturing industries may see increased demand for cyber security professionals tailored to the specific needs of those sectors.
- Cyber security ecosystem: The presence of cyber security-focused organizations, industry clusters and networking events can contribute to job growth by fostering collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship within the cyber security community. Regions with a vibrant cyber security ecosystem tend to attract and retain talent, driving job creation and economic growth.
Overall, while job growth for cyber security professionals in Ohio is generally positive statewide, it may vary depending on the location and its unique economic and industry landscape. Urban centers with diverse economies and strong cyber security ecosystems typically offer more opportunities, but specialized industries and targeted initiatives can also spur job growth in other regions across the state.
The BLS estimates the field will grow 28.5% over the next decade, much, much faster than the national average for all other careers combined.
Factors affecting cyber security salaries
Several factors influence how much you can earn in cyber security roles in Ohio. These factors reflect the complexities of the job market, industry demand, individual qualifications and regional dynamics. Here are key factors that affect earning potential in the state:
- Experience and expertise: As in any field, experience plays a significant role in determining salary levels. Cyber security professionals with several years of experience and specialized expertise, such as penetration testing, incident response or cloud security, typically command higher salaries than entry-level or generalist roles.
- Education and certifications: Higher levels of education, such as a master's degree or PhD, can lead to higher-paying positions, particularly in leadership or specialized roles. Additionally, industry-recognized certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), and CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) can boost earning potential by demonstrating proficiency and credibility in specific cyber security domains.
- Job role and responsibilities: The specific role within cyber security can significantly impact salary levels. For example, roles like cyber security analyst, security engineer or security architect may offer varying compensation based on the scope of responsibilities, technical skills required and level of seniority within the organization.
- Location: While Ohio offers competitive salaries for cyber security professionals compared to the national average, salaries can vary depending on the specific location within the state.
- Company size: The size and reputation of the employer can also impact salary levels. Large multinational corporations, Fortune 500 companies and tech giants may offer higher salaries and additional perks to attract top talent, while startups or smaller businesses may offer competitive salaries coupled with equity or other incentives.
- Market demand and supply: The supply-demand dynamics of the cyber security job market can influence salary trends. High demand for cyber security professionals with specific skills or expertise may drive up salaries in certain specialties, while oversaturation or low demand for generalist roles may result in lower salaries.
- Negotiation skills: Finally, an individual's ability to negotiate salary and benefits can affect their earning potential. Candidates who effectively communicate their value, showcase their skills and accomplishments and negotiate strategically may be more likely to secure higher compensation packages.
How do I know if I am paid fairly as a cyber security professional in Ohio?
Determining whether you are being paid fairly in Ohio involves considering various factors such as industry standards, qualifications, experience and the cost of living. Additionally, understanding the laws that protect employee wages is crucial. Here's how to evaluate fair pay, relevant laws and educational requirements for cyber security jobs in the state:
Evaluating fair pay:
- Research: Utilize online resources such as salary comparison websites, industry reports and job postings to understand the typical salary range for your position in Ohio.
- Networking: Engage with professionals in your field, attend industry events and join online communities to gather insights on compensation trends and benchmarks.
- Consider: Take into account your experience, qualifications, job responsibilities and geographic location within Ohio when assessing your pay.
Wage protection laws:
- Ohio's minimum wage: Ohio's minimum wage is subject to periodic adjustments and must comply with the federal minimum wage.
- Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): FLSA sets standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping and youth employment, providing protections for employees at the federal level.
- Labor laws: Ohio has a labor laws website where you can research Code 4111.17 and other laws, and file a complaint if you feel you are not being paid fairly.
Education and training for Ohio
Like all states, Ohio has education requirements for cyber security workers:
- Cyber security analyst: A bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer science, information technology or a related field is typically required. Advanced degrees may be preferred for senior roles.
- Security engineer: Similar to cyber security analysts, a bachelor's degree is typically required, with specialization in network security, software engineering or related fields.
- Penetration tester: Bachelor's degree in cyber security, computer science or a related field, along with specialized certifications such as CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional).
- Data analyst: Bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics or a related field, with additional coursework or experience in data analytics and cyber security.
The importance of certifications and professional development
- Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications validate skills and enhance career prospects. Examples include CISSP, CISM, CompTIA Security+ and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).
- Bootcamps: Cyber security bootcamps offer intensive training programs that cover key concepts and prepare individuals for certification exams. These programs are often immersive and accelerated, catering to individuals seeking to enter the field quickly.
Cost of living considerations in OH
While Ohio generally has a lower cost of living compared to some other states, factors such as housing, transportation, healthcare and taxes can still influence pay levels. Salaries may vary between urban centers like Columbus and rural areas due to differences in living expenses and demand for talent.
RentCafe states that Ohio as a whole, averages 8% less than the national average, and housing is 22% lower than the rest of the country. Take a look at cost of living for some key cities that are cyber security hubs within Ohio:
| Ohio city | Cost of living % compared to national average |
|---|---|
| Columbus | 8% lower |
| Cleveland | 8% lower |
| Cincinnati | 3% lower |
| Akron | 10% lower |
| Dayton | 5% lower |
Professional associations for cyber security in Ohio
Joining professional cyber security organizations and groups facilitates networking, skill development and access to job opportunities. Here are just a couple groups to consider in Ohio:
- ISC² Central Ohio Chapter:
- ISC2 Central Ohio is comprised of ISC2 members and non-members who are interested in the cyber security industry and profession, as well as advancing the ISC2 vision of inspiring a safe and secure cyber world. You must have an invitation to join the group.
- Central Ohio ISSA (Information Systems Security Association):
- ISSA Central Ohio is the Columbus chapter of the international cyber security professional community of choice, committed to promoting individual growth, managing technology risk and protecting critical information and infrastructure.
- Ohio Cyber Collaboration Committee:
- An Ohio cyber community sector of the state's Homeland Security website working together to help Ohio's citizens and organizations achieve world class cyber security.
Explore cyber security salary guides for select states
Wrapping up
In conclusion, Ohio's cyber security sector presents unparalleled opportunities for professionals seeking rewarding careers in a dynamic and rapidly evolving field. With competitive salaries, specialized roles and a thriving ecosystem of top employers, Ohio stands poised to become a cyber security player in the digital age. As cyber threats proliferate, the need for skilled cyber security professionals in Ohio will only intensify, making it an ideal destination for those looking to make a meaningful impact and secure their future in a state where the field is growing and yet still offers an affordable lifestyle.
This cyber security salary guide for Ohio 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