Security Engineer vs AR/VR Developer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Security Engineer
Protect systems, networks, and applications from cyber threats.
AR/VR Developer
Build augmented and virtual reality experiences for gaming, enterprise, and training.
AR/VR Developer earns more on average — the national median is $6,800/year (5%) higher than a Security Engineer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Security Engineer vs AR/VR Developer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Security Engineer | AR/VR Developer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $188,453 | $194,489 | Security $6,036 |
| New York, NY | $140,470 | $166,830 | Security $26,360 |
| Seattle, WA | $186,157 | $188,885 | Security $2,728 |
| Austin, TX | $141,154 | $153,759 | Security $12,605 |
| Chicago, IL | $136,578 | $144,495 | Security $7,917 |
| Boston, MA | $169,875 | $172,806 | Security $2,931 |
| London, UK | £103,925 | £103,650 | Security +$275 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$169,373 | CA$175,134 | Security $5,761 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Security Engineer or AR/VR Developer earn more?+
A AR/VR Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Security Engineer is $129,180/year, compared to $135,980/year for a AR/VR Developer — a difference of $6,800 (5%).
Which has better career growth — Security Engineer or AR/VR Developer?+
Security Engineer roles are growing at 32% YoY while AR/VR Developer demand is growing at 38% YoY. AR/VR Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Security Engineer to AR/VR Developer?+
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 — Security Engineer or AR/VR Developer?+
AR/VR Developer has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 32%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.