IT Manager 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 Manager
Oversee IT department operations, staff, and technology strategy.
Security Analyst
Monitor, detect, and respond to security incidents and threats.
IT Manager earns more on average — the national median is $85,585/year (96%) higher than a Security Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
IT Manager vs Security Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | IT Manager | Security Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $260,907 | $133,466 | IT +$127,441 |
| New York, NY | $206,737 | $109,717 | IT +$97,020 |
| Seattle, WA | $253,469 | $129,188 | IT +$124,281 |
| Austin, TX | $194,345 | $98,064 | IT +$96,281 |
| Chicago, IL | $186,335 | $98,234 | IT +$88,101 |
| Boston, MA | $234,529 | $114,557 | IT +$119,972 |
| London, UK | £138,371 | £70,022 | IT +$68,349 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$227,074 | CA$118,720 | IT +$108,354 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a IT Manager or Security Analyst earn more?+
A IT Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a IT Manager is $175,140/year, compared to $89,555/year for a Security Analyst — a difference of $85,585 (96%).
Which has better career growth — IT Manager or Security Analyst?+
IT Manager roles are growing at 10% YoY while Security Analyst demand is growing at 32% YoY. Security Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from IT Manager 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 Manager or Security Analyst?+
Security Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 30%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.