Cloud Architect vs Security Analyst: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Cloud Architect
Design scalable cloud infrastructure and migration strategies.
Security Analyst
Monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents and threats.
Cloud Architect earns more on average — the national median is $44,495/year (50%) higher than a Security Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Cloud Architect vs Security Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Cloud Architect | Security Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $201,168 | $133,466 | Cloud +$67,702 |
| New York, NY | $163,010 | $109,717 | Cloud +$53,293 |
| Seattle, WA | $172,650 | $129,188 | Cloud +$43,462 |
| Austin, TX | $152,689 | $98,064 | Cloud +$54,625 |
| Chicago, IL | $141,628 | $98,234 | Cloud +$43,394 |
| Boston, MA | $176,206 | $114,557 | Cloud +$61,649 |
| London, UK | £104,445 | £70,022 | Cloud +$34,423 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$180,635 | CA$118,720 | Cloud +$61,915 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Cloud Architect or Security Analyst earn more?+
A Cloud Architect earns more on average. The national median salary for a Cloud Architect is $134,050/year, compared to $89,555/year for a Security Analyst — a difference of $44,495 (50%).
Which has better career growth — Cloud Architect or Security Analyst?+
Cloud Architect roles are growing at 30% YoY while Security Analyst demand is growing at 32% YoY. Security Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Cloud Architect to Security Analyst?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Cloud Architect or Security Analyst?+
Cloud Architect has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.