Chicago Cybersecurity Salaries: What Can You Expect to Earn?

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: July 7th 2024

Cybersecurity salaries in Chicago, Illinois, US - What to expect at entry, mid, and senior levels and future job market trends.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Cybersecurity professionals in Chicago can expect competitive salaries with entry-level positions starting around $107K and experienced roles reaching up to $177K annually. The city's diverse economy and major employers drive high demand for cyber experts, creating lucrative opportunities in finance, healthcare, and tech sectors. Certifications and specialized skills further boost earning potential.

Chicago is where it's at for anyone looking to make some serious cash in cybersecurity! The city is buzzing with so many major industries, making it a prime spot for cyber pros looking to capitalize on the booming job market.

By 2024, things are gonna blow up even more, thanks to cyber threats targeting businesses left and right, stricter privacy rules that need top-notch security, and companies going digital like crazy, creating more weak spots for hackers to exploit.

Cybersecurity roles have become an absolute must-have for companies trying to protect their sensitive data, keep critical systems running smoothly, and avoid costly breaches.

With Chicago's diverse economy spanning finance, healthcare, tech, and manufacturing, the demand for skilled cyber warriors to mitigate risks is skyrocketing.

According to the latest stats, an entry-level Cyber Security Analyst in Chicago can rake in around $107K straight out of the gate, with experienced pros earning up to $135K annually.

Plus, major employers like Motorola, Discover, and McDonald's are constantly on the hunt for top cyber talent.

With the right skills and certs, you could be living that cybersecurity dream in the Windy City!

Table of Contents

  • Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salaries in Chicago
  • Mid-Level Cybersecurity Salaries in Chicago
  • Senior-Level Cybersecurity Salaries in Chicago
  • Job Market and Future Outlook for Cybersecurity in Chicago
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Entry-Level Cybersecurity Salaries in Chicago

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If you're kickin' it in the Windy City and lookin' to make some serious cash in cybersecurity, according to the latest projections for 2024, entry-level cyber gigs in Chicago can net you around $143,632 annually.

That's a sweet deal, right? But it ain't just about the Benjamins. Your skills and experience matter too. If you've got a solid degree in computer science or cybersecurity, you could be lookin' at an even higher starting salary.

And don't sleep on those certifications. Grabbing a CompTIA Security+ or CISSP can definitely bump up your earning potential as a newbie. Oh, and internships? They're like a golden ticket, giving you that real-world experience that employers drool over.

Now, let's talk numbers.

Entry-level cyber security analysts in Chicago can expect an average salary of $126,535, with the range typically falling between $108,825 and $141,767.

Not too shabby, right? If you're willin' to make the move to North Chicago, the average entry-level cyber security analyst salary jumps to $120,745, with a range of $103,845 to $135,280.

Sounds like a sweet deal if you don't mind a little commute.

Chicago's entry-level cyber pay is straight-up ballin' compared to the national average of $62,000 for similar gigs.

It's like the city is rollin' out the red carpet for cyber newbies, offerin' competitive salaries for roles like information security analysts ($107,670), cybersecurity analysts ($100,825), and network specialists ($96,978).

With hot tech companies and a booming cyber scene, Chicago is where it's at for those lookin' to get their hustle on in the cybersecurity game.

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Mid-Level Cybersecurity Salaries in Chicago

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Alright, let's talk about the cash you can rake in as a mid-level cybersecurity pro in Chi-Town. According to the latest data, the average yearly salary for these gigs is a solid $139,587.

Not too shabby, right? It gets better. Top earners are hauling in a whopping $177,700 annually, and even the lower 25th percentile is banking $114,300. Talk about securing the bag!

Now, if you want to level up and join the high rollers, you gotta have that specialty sauce.

Skills like Amazon Web Services, technical recruiting, and policy development can seriously boost your paycheck.

Companies are willing to shell out major bucks for those niche talents. We're talking an average of $150K at places with 200-500 employees. Not chump change.

But don't just take my word for it.

Entry-level cyber security analysts in the city are already earning an average of $100,309 per year.

And if you climb the ranks? Remote cyber security gigs and consulting roles can net you a cool $147K+. The sky's the limit when you've got those coveted cyber skills.

Long story short, Chicago is where it's at for cybersecurity ballers.

With major companies like CME Group, Blue Cross, and Accenture all based here, the opportunities are endless. Just keep grinding, stay ahead of the game, and those fat stacks will be rolling in before you know it.

Senior-Level Cybersecurity Salaries in Chicago

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As you gain more experience and skills in cyber security, the money you can make in Chicago starts getting really good. According to ZipRecruiter, the average yearly salary for a cyber security pro in Chicago in July 2024 is around $139,587.

But that's just the average - top earners can make up to $177,700 per year!

For more senior roles like Senior Cyber Security Analysts, the salaries are even higher.

We're talking an average of $106,173 per year, with top earners making over $144,220 annually. And if you manage to land a job as a Senior Cyber Security Engineer, you could be looking at an average salary of $240,176 in Chicago.

The key is to keep upgrading your skills and getting certifications that employers value.

Things like Amazon Web Services, CompTIA, and industry-recognized certs can really boost your earning potential. With the right expertise, especially in areas like risk management, cloud security, and cyber forensics, companies in Chicago are willing to pay top dollar to have you on their team protecting their systems and data.

It's a lucrative career path if you're willing to put in the work.

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Job Market and Future Outlook for Cybersecurity in Chicago

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The cybersecurity job scene in Chicago is straight-up blowing up! According to the data, this city is one of the top spots for cybersecurity gigs in 2024, with over 10,000 openings projected and an average salary of $120,000.

That's some serious cash! The demand is so hot that salaries for entry-level roles like Cyber Security Analysts start around $100K, and experienced pros can rake in over $135K. With cyberthreats on the rise, companies are scrambling to lock down their systems, creating a goldmine of opportunities in sectors like finance, healthcare, and tech.

The cybersecurity field in Chicago is evolving faster than you can say "ransomware attack." Cloud security, AI/ML, and IoT are the buzzwords driving innovation, and if you can master these cutting-edge techs, you'll be a highly sought-after asset.

Plus, with major events like the Chicago Cybersecurity Conference coming up, you can stay ahead of the curve and network with industry leaders.

If you're looking to break into this lucrative field, consider leveling up your skills with a cybersecurity bootcamp like the one offered by Nucamp.

Their program covers the essentials like network defense, ethical hacking, and prepping for top certs like CompTIA and AWS. With the right training and drive, you could be the next cybersecurity superhero protecting Chi-Town's digital frontlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the average salary for an entry-level Cyber Security Analyst in Chicago?

An entry-level Cyber Security Analyst in Chicago can earn around $107,000 annually, with salaries ranging between $108,825 and $141,767. In North Chicago, this can increase to an average of $120,745.

How do certifications impact cybersecurity salaries in Chicago?

Certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP can positively impact earning potential, particularly for entry-level roles. These certifications can help candidates stand out and potentially earn higher starting salaries.

What is the salary range for mid-level cybersecurity professionals in Chicago?

Mid-level cybersecurity professionals in Chicago earn an average of $139,587 per year, with top earners making up to $177,700 annually. Salaries for those with specialized skills can reach an average of $150,000.

What can senior-level cybersecurity professionals expect to earn in Chicago?

Senior-level cybersecurity professionals in Chicago can make an average of $139,587 per year, with top earners pulling in up to $177,700. More specialized roles like Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) can see salaries reaching $240,176 annually.

What is the job outlook for cybersecurity professionals in Chicago?

The job market for cybersecurity professionals in Chicago is booming, with over 10,000 job openings projected for 2024 and an average salary of $120,000. The demand is high in sectors like finance, healthcare, and tech, and the increasing threats and digital transformation are creating numerous opportunities.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.