Cyber security salaries in texas
Texas has a robust job market for cyber security professionals, with numerous opportunities in various industries such as technology, energy, healthcare, finance and government. Major cities like Austin, San Antonio, Dallas and Houston host a multitude of cyber security firms, tech startups, government agencies and large corporations, offering diverse career paths for professionals in the field.
With such a robust landscape comes competition, and with competition comes the opportunity to negotiate salary and benefits. Here is an overview, which provides a baseline of what you may be able to expect as far as cyber security salaries in Texas.
Quick look at cyber security salaries in Texas
Texas is home to a significant concentration of technology companies, defense contractors and critical infrastructure sectors, all of which require strident cyber security measures. The state's leading role in sectors like aerospace, energy, healthcare and finance contributes to a high demand for cyber security expertise.
There are roughly 14,870 people employed as information security analysts in Texas. This makes the state the third highest employer of information security analysts in the U.S. says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median wage per hour is $55 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 31.5%.
Several areas in Texas serve as prominent cyber security hubs, attracting professionals and businesses due to various factors such as industry concentration, academic institutions, government initiatives and infrastructure. Here are some notable areas:
- Austin: Known as the "Silicon Hills," Austin boasts a tech scene, including cyber security. It's home to several cyber security companies, startups and research institutions. The presence of major universities like the University of Texas at Austin and its strong engineering and computer science programs contribute to a skilled workforce. Additionally, initiatives like the Austin Technology Incubator and events like SXSW Interactive attract talent and investment to the area.
- San Antonio: San Antonio is another significant cyber security hub, particularly due to its military presence. The city hosts major military installations like Lackland Air Force Base, home to the 24th Air Force, which focuses on cyber operations. Additionally, the National Security Agency (NSA) has a significant presence in San Antonio. These factors, combined with initiatives like the Cybersecurity San Antonio consortium, contribute to the city's status as a cyber security hotspot.
- Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex: DFW is one of the largest tech hubs in the U.S., with a diverse economy that includes cyber security. The region benefits from a large pool of skilled professionals, strong corporate presence and numerous universities and research institutions. Organizations like the Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) provide networking opportunities and support for cyber security professionals.
- Houston: While primarily known for its energy sector, Houston also has a growing cyber security ecosystem. The presence of major corporations, including those in the energy, healthcare and finance industries, creates demand for cyber security services. Additionally, institutions like the University of Houston and Rice University contribute to research and talent development in the field.
Professionals are drawn to these areas for access to job opportunities, collaboration with peers and experts and the chance to be part of dynamic and growing communities at the forefront of cyber security innovation. Here are just five prime employers for cyber security specialists in Texas:
- Dell Technologies, Round Rock, TX:
- Dell Technologies utilizes cyber security measures across its various product lines and services. They offer solutions ranging from endpoint security and data protection to cloud security and threat intelligence. Dell employs cyber security professionals to develop, implement and manage these solutions, as well as to safeguard the company's internal IT infrastructure.
- Lockheed Martin, Fort Worth, TX (Aeronautics division HQ):
- Lockheed Martin, a global aerospace and defense company, heavily invests in cyber security to protect its advanced technology systems and critical defense projects. They utilize cyber security measures to secure their aircraft, defense systems and communication networks against cyber threats. Cyber security professionals at Lockheed Martin are involved in designing secure systems, conducting risk assessments and implementing cyber defense strategies.
- USAA, San Antonio, TX:
- USAA (United Services Automobile Association) is a financial services company that primarily serves military members and their families. With a strong focus on security and privacy, USAA employs cyber security measures to protect its members' financial information, transactions and personal data. Cyber security professionals at USAA work on various fronts, including network security, threat detection and response and compliance with regulatory standards like PCI-DSS and GDPR.
- Raytheon Technologies, Richardson, TX (Intelligence & Space division headquarters):
- Raytheon Technologies is a major aerospace and defense contractor that provides advanced technologies for defense, civil government and cyber security markets. In Texas, Raytheon Technologies' cyber security professionals work on developing and implementing solutions to secure critical infrastructure, intelligence systems and government networks. They utilize cyber security measures to protect against cyber threats, including advanced persistent threats (APTs) and insider threats.
- Cyxtera Technologies, Dallas, TX:
- Cyxtera Technologies is a leading provider of data center colocation and managed security services. With a focus on cyber security, Cyxtera offers solutions for secure access, threat detection and compliance management. Their cyber security professionals in Texas work on designing and maintaining secure data center environments, implementing security controls and providing managed security services to clients across industries.
Salary statistics for Texas
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 $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 Texas
The median annual salary for information security analysts in Texas is $115,040. While salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state, Texas doesn't rank in the top 10 for information security analyst pay in the U.S., says the BLS.
10%$72,870
25%$89,720
50%$115,040Median
75%$139,930
90%$167,540
Median Hourly Wage$55
Job growth31.5%
Total Employment14,870
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $127,080 | $78,580 | $169,030 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | $113,290 | $72,480 | $172,470 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | $113,010 | $75,230 | $163,020 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $106,450 | $70,420 | $178,810 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | $102,820 | $67,520 | $149,110 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $101,330 | $54,920 | $178,880 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $101,140 | $63,820 | $137,610 |
| Amarillo, TX | $99,880 | $48,270 | $138,700 |
| Waco, TX | $98,570 | $48,170 | $161,310 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | $94,580 | $61,880 | $134,130 |
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.
Salary ranges for cyber security careers in Texas
These salary ranges are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the size and industry of the employer, the candidate's education and certifications, specific skills and experience and regional cost of living differences within Texas. Additionally, bonuses, benefits and other perks may also influence overall compensation packages. It's essential to research specific job postings and negotiate based on individual qualifications and market conditions. Here are some cyber security roles with the lowest 10%, median and highest 10% salary in Texas, according to the BLS and its subsidiary, O*NET:
- Cyber security engineer: $38,820–$83,340–$159,920
- Cyber security architect: $82,560–$132,400–$182,200
- QA tester: $58,270–$100,230–$156,360
- SOC analyst: $58,900–$101,720–$164,140
The BLS provides a salary range for information security analysts in Texas, citing $72,870 for the lowest 10%, $115,040 for the median 50th percentile ans $167,540 for the highest 10% in the field.
Pay by TX 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 a tech industry hub such as Austin, Dallas or Houston, or a military hub such as San Antonio, pay may be more competitive. Not surprisingly the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area ranks #3 for highest employment of information security analysts in the entire country, says the BLS, though no metro area ranks in the top 10 for pay. Here's what the BLS reports as the highest paying cities in the U.S.
The top 10 highest employers of information security analysts by metro area included:
Salary growth and job outlook for Texas
Overall, while major metropolitan areas like Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio and Houston are likely to see the most significant growth in cyber security jobs, demand for cyber security professionals is expected to extend across the state as organizations of all sizes and sectors prioritize cyber security measures. Additionally, rural areas and smaller cities may also experience growth as businesses in those regions increasingly recognize the importance of cyber security in their operations. The primary growth areas in Texas should include:
- Austin: Austin's diverse economy, strong presence of tech companies and startups, as well as academic and research institutions, contribute to a high demand for cyber security professionals. With initiatives like the Texas Cybersecurity Council and the Texas Department of Information Resources, Austin is likely to remain a hotspot for cyber security jobs and growth.
- Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex: The DFW area is one of the largest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S., with a diverse economy that includes technology, finance, healthcare and defense sectors. As businesses and organizations in DFW increasingly adopt digital technologies and face cyber threats, the demand for cyber security professionals is expected to grow.
- San Antonio: San Antonio has a strong military and government presence, with several military installations and defense contractors in the area. As a center for cyber operations and intelligence, San Antonio is likely to see continued growth in cyber security jobs, particularly in areas related to defense, government and critical infrastructure protection.
- Houston: Houston's economy is dominated by industries such as energy, healthcare and finance, all of which are prime targets for cyber attacks. As companies in these sectors invest more in cyber security to protect their assets and data, the demand for cyber security professionals in Houston is expected to increase.
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 Texas
Several factors specific to Texas's industries can impact the salary you can earn in cyber security within the state:
- Industry demand:
- The demand for cyber security professionals varies across the technology, energy, healthcare, finance and defense sectors. For example, the energy sector may offer higher salaries due to the critical nature of its infrastructure and the need for cyber security measures to protect against threats and ensure uninterrupted operations.
- Company maturity:
- Maturity of the company may influence salary levels. Larger, established companies may offer higher salaries compared to startups or smaller organizations. Big tech companies, defense contractors and Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Texas may provide competitive compensation packages to attract and retain top cyber security talent.
- Location in the state:
- Salaries can also vary based on the specific geographic location within Texas. Metropolitan areas like Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio and Houston generally offer higher salaries compared to rural areas or smaller cities within the state.
- Skills and experience you bring to the table:
- Employers in Texas may offer increased compensation for individuals with in-demand skills such as penetration testing, threat hunting, cloud security or experience with specific technologies like AI/ML-based security solutions or industrial control systems (ICS) security.
- Education and professional certifications:
- Higher levels of education, such as a master's degree or doctorate in cyber security, computer science or related fields, may lead to higher-paying roles, especially in leadership positions or specialized areas of expertise. Additionally, industry-recognized certifications like CISSP, CISM, CEH and GIAC certifications can enhance earning potential by demonstrating expertise and proficiency in specific areas of cyber security.
- Regulatory compliance or government contracts:
- Certain industries in Texas, such as finance, healthcare and defense, are subject to regulatory requirements and compliance standards related to data protection and cyber security. Companies operating in these sectors may offer higher salaries to cyber security professionals with expertise in compliance frameworks like PCI-DSS, HIPAA, NIST or DFARS. Similarly, government contractors in Texas may provide competitive salaries to cyber security professionals working on federal contracts with security requirements.
How do I know if I am paid fairly as a cyber security professional in Texas?
If you believe you are not being paid fairly in Texas, you have several options to address the situation:
- Document your compensation and job duties: Gather documentation related to your compensation, such as pay stubs, employment contracts, offer letters and performance evaluations. Also, document your job duties, responsibilities and any additional tasks or accomplishments that may warrant a salary increase.
- Research comparable salaries: Research salary data for your job title, industry, location and level of experience using online resources like salary comparison websites, industry reports and job postings. This information can help you determine if your current compensation is in line with market rates.
- Discuss your concerns with HR: Schedule a meeting with your supervisor, HR representative or employer to discuss your concerns about your compensation. Present your documentation and salary research, and explain why you believe you deserve a higher salary based on your contributions and market conditions. Be prepared to negotiate and articulate your value to the organization.
- File a wage complaint: If you believe your employer is violating wage and hour laws, such as minimum wage requirements or overtime pay regulations, you can file a wage complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) or the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). These agencies investigate wage disputes and enforce labor laws to ensure fair treatment of employees.
- Seek legal advice: If informal discussions and government agencies' interventions do not resolve the issue, you may consider seeking legal advice from an employment attorney specializing in wage and hour disputes. An attorney can assess your case, advise you on your rights, and represent you in legal proceedings if necessary.
- Explore alternative employment: If your employer is unwilling to address your compensation concerns and you believe you are significantly underpaid compared to market rates, you may consider exploring alternative employment opportunities with other companies that offer more competitive salaries and benefits.
It's essential to approach the situation professionally and thoughtfully, keeping lines of communication open with your employer while also advocating for fair compensation for your work.
Education and training in Texas
While a bachelor's degree is often the minimum requirement for entry into cyber security roles in Texas, candidates can enhance their competitiveness by obtaining advanced degrees, industry certifications and specialized training relevant to their career goals and desired industry sectors, including defense. Here are some common educational paths and qualifications:
Required education:
- Bachelor's degree: Many entry-level cyber security positions in Texas require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as computer science, information technology, cyber security or a related discipline. A bachelor's degree provides foundational knowledge and skills in areas like networking, programming, cryptography, and risk management.
- Security clearances (for defense roles): For cyber security roles within defense organizations or government agencies, candidates may need to obtain security clearances. These clearances typically involve background checks and investigations to assess eligibility for access to classified information.
Preferred education
- Special education for defense roles:
- Department of Defense (DoD) Directive 8570: Defense roles often require compliance with DoD Directive 8570 (now updated to DoD Directive 8140), which mandates specific certifications for individuals working in cyber security positions within the Department of Defense. These certifications are categorized based on job roles and proficiency levels and include certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
- Defense-focused training programs: Some defense contractors and organizations may offer specialized training programs or partnerships with educational institutions to provide tailored education and certifications for cyber security roles in defense-related fields. These programs may cover topics such as secure coding, incident response and security clearance procedures.
- Master's degree: While not always required, a master's degree in cyber security, information assurance or a related field can be preferred for mid-level and senior cyber security positions in Texas. A master's degree provides deeper expertise and specialization in areas such as threat intelligence, digital forensics and security policy.
- Industry certifications: Employers in Texas often value industry-recognized certifications, which demonstrate proficiency and expertise in specific areas of cyber security. Common certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and CompTIA Security+.
Cost of living considerations in TX
RentCafe states that Texas as a whole, averages 7% lower than the national average for cost of living, and housing is 17% lower. Healthcare and transportation are also lower, and only utilities are higher, at 3% more than the national average. Take a look at cost of living for some cities that are cyber security hubs within Texas:
| Texas city | Cost of living % compared to national average |
|---|---|
| Austin | 1% lower |
| San Antonio | 9% lower |
| Dallas | 2% higher |
| Houston | 6% lower |
| Fort Worth | 6% lower |
Professional associations for TX cyber security specialists
These professional groups may offer valuable resources, networking opportunities and educational events for cyber security professionals in Texas, facilitating career growth, knowledge sharing and community engagement within the cyber security industry.
- ISSA Austin Chapter (Information Systems Security Association):
- ISSA is a global organization dedicated to promoting cyber security education, awareness and professional development. The Austin Chapter serves the Central Texas region, offering networking events, educational seminars and training opportunities for cyber security professionals.
- North Texas InfraGard Chapter:
- InfraGard is a public-private partnership between the FBI and members of the private sector, including businesses, academic institutions and government agencies, focused on sharing information and intelligence related to critical infrastructure protection and cyber security. The North Texas chapter serves the Dallas-Fort Worth area, providing networking events, training sessions and threat briefings.
- ISACA North Texas Chapter:
- ISACA is an international professional association for individuals involved in information security, assurance, risk management and governance. The North Texas Chapter serves the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, offering educational events, certification preparation courses and networking opportunities for cyber security professionals.
- CyberSecurity San Antonio:
- CyberSecurity San Antonio is a consortium of cyber security companies, government agencies, academic institutions and industry organizations in the San Antonio area. The consortium aims to promote collaboration, innovation and workforce development in the cyber security field through networking events, educational programs and strategic partnerships.
Wrapping up
In Texas, cyber security salaries vary depending on factors such as job role, experience and industry demand, with professionals in metropolitan areas like Austin, Dallas and Houston often commanding higher compensation. Pursuing education in cyber security, such as a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, along with industry certifications, can provide a solid foundation for entering this dynamic field. Additionally, ongoing professional development and specialization can further enhance earning potential and career advancement opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber security in Texas. If you're ready to explore education programs and bootcamps in Texas, all you need to do is click Find schools to get started.
This cyber security salary guide for Texas 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