iOS Developer vs Penetration Tester: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
iOS Developer
Build native applications for Apple iPhone and iPad.
Penetration Tester
Conduct authorised attacks on systems to find and report vulnerabilities.
iOS Developer earns more on average — the national median is $6,800/year (5%) higher than a Penetration Tester. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
iOS Developer vs Penetration Tester — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | iOS Developer | Penetration Tester | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $203,984 | $193,496 | iOS +$10,488 |
| New York, NY | $159,203 | $140,470 | iOS +$18,733 |
| Seattle, WA | $188,620 | $188,841 | iOS $221 |
| Austin, TX | $151,755 | $145,769 | iOS +$5,986 |
| Chicago, IL | $142,066 | $135,251 | iOS +$6,815 |
| Boston, MA | $178,564 | $171,501 | iOS +$7,063 |
| London, UK | £107,314 | £102,480 | iOS +$4,834 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$181,638 | CA$166,911 | iOS +$14,727 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a iOS Developer or Penetration Tester earn more?+
A iOS Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a iOS Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $129,180/year for a Penetration Tester — a difference of $6,800 (5%).
Which has better career growth — iOS Developer or Penetration Tester?+
iOS Developer roles are growing at 18% YoY while Penetration Tester demand is growing at 30% YoY. Penetration Tester has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from iOS Developer to Penetration Tester?+
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 — iOS Developer or Penetration Tester?+
Penetration Tester has a lower AI automation risk (22% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.