SOC Analyst vs Game Developer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
SOC Analyst
Monitor and respond to cybersecurity incidents in a security operations center.
Game Developer
Build video games for PC, console, and mobile platforms.
Game Developer earns more on average — the national median is $57,980/year (74%) higher than a SOC Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
SOC Analyst vs Game Developer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | SOC Analyst | Game Developer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $162,310 | $193,262 | SOC $30,952 |
| New York, NY | $140,470 | $166,830 | SOC $26,360 |
| Seattle, WA | $161,780 | $191,791 | SOC $30,011 |
| Austin, TX | $134,100 | $134,120 | SOC $20 |
| Chicago, IL | $125,310 | $134,380 | SOC $9,070 |
| Boston, MA | $136,550 | $166,090 | SOC $29,540 |
| London, UK | £62,471 | £103,778 | SOC $41,307 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$101,081 | CA$181,136 | SOC $80,055 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a SOC Analyst or Game Developer earn more?+
A Game Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a SOC Analyst is $78,000/year, compared to $135,980/year for a Game Developer — a difference of $57,980 (74%).
Which has better career growth — SOC Analyst or Game Developer?+
SOC Analyst roles are growing at 28% YoY while Game Developer demand is growing at 14% YoY. SOC Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from SOC Analyst to Game 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 — SOC Analyst or Game Developer?+
Game Developer has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 55%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.