Security Engineer vs Network Engineer: 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.
Network Engineer
Design, implement, and manage computer network infrastructure.
Network Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $4,870/year (4%) 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 Network Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Security Engineer | Network Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $188,453 | $195,491 | Security $7,038 |
| New York, NY | $140,470 | $165,772 | Security $25,302 |
| Seattle, WA | $186,157 | $192,889 | Security $6,732 |
| Austin, TX | $141,154 | $149,704 | Security $8,550 |
| Chicago, IL | $136,578 | $145,221 | Security $8,643 |
| Boston, MA | $169,875 | $176,955 | Security $7,080 |
| London, UK | £103,925 | £106,873 | Security $2,948 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$169,373 | CA$177,211 | Security $7,838 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Security Engineer or Network Engineer earn more?+
A Network Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Security Engineer is $129,180/year, compared to $134,050/year for a Network Engineer — a difference of $4,870 (4%).
Which has better career growth — Security Engineer or Network Engineer?+
Security Engineer roles are growing at 32% YoY while Network Engineer demand is growing at 6% YoY. Security Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Security Engineer to Network Engineer?+
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 Network Engineer?+
Security Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (32% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.