IT Auditor vs SOC 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.
SOC Analyst
Monitor security alerts and respond to incidents in a Security Operations Centre.
IT Auditor earns more on average — the national median is $57,180/year (79%) higher than a SOC Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
IT Auditor vs SOC Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | IT Auditor | SOC Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $191,207 | $105,392 | IT +$85,815 |
| New York, NY | $159,465 | $140,470 | IT +$18,995 |
| Seattle, WA | $186,599 | $101,114 | IT +$85,485 |
| Austin, TX | $140,102 | $81,440 | IT +$58,662 |
| Chicago, IL | $140,966 | $76,392 | IT +$64,574 |
| Boston, MA | $173,381 | $94,913 | IT +$78,468 |
| London, UK | £99,246 | £57,665 | IT +$41,581 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$172,237 | CA$93,306 | IT +$78,931 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a IT Auditor or SOC Analyst earn more?+
A IT Auditor earns more on average. The national median salary for a IT Auditor is $129,180/year, compared to $72,000/year for a SOC Analyst — a difference of $57,180 (79%).
Which has better career growth — IT Auditor or SOC Analyst?+
IT Auditor roles are growing at 14% YoY while SOC Analyst demand is growing at 28% YoY. SOC Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from IT Auditor to SOC 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 SOC Analyst?+
SOC Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.