IT Auditor vs Security Analyst: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
IT Auditor
Assess IT systems and controls to identify risks and ensure regulatory compliance.
Security Analyst
Monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents and threats.
IT Auditor earns more on average — the national median is $39,625/year (44%) higher than a Security Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
IT Auditor vs Security Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | IT Auditor | Security Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $191,207 | $133,466 | IT +$57,741 |
| New York, NY | $159,465 | $109,717 | IT +$49,748 |
| Seattle, WA | $186,599 | $129,188 | IT +$57,411 |
| Austin, TX | $140,102 | $98,064 | IT +$42,038 |
| Chicago, IL | $140,966 | $98,234 | IT +$42,732 |
| Boston, MA | $173,381 | $114,557 | IT +$58,824 |
| London, UK | £99,246 | £70,022 | IT +$29,224 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$172,237 | CA$118,720 | IT +$53,517 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a IT Auditor or Security Analyst earn more?+
A IT Auditor earns more on average. The national median salary for a IT Auditor is $129,180/year, compared to $89,555/year for a Security Analyst — a difference of $39,625 (44%).
Which has better career growth — IT Auditor or Security Analyst?+
IT Auditor roles are growing at 14% YoY while Security Analyst demand is growing at 32% YoY. Security Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from IT Auditor 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 — IT Auditor or Security Analyst?+
Security Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.