SOC Analyst vs Network Engineer: 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.
Network Engineer
Design, implement, and manage computer network infrastructure.
Network Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $56,050/year (72%) 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 Network Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | SOC Analyst | Network Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $162,310 | $195,491 | SOC $33,181 |
| New York, NY | $140,470 | $163,010 | SOC $22,540 |
| Seattle, WA | $161,780 | $192,889 | SOC $31,109 |
| Austin, TX | $134,100 | $133,710 | SOC +$390 |
| Chicago, IL | $125,310 | $143,800 | SOC $18,490 |
| Boston, MA | $136,550 | $160,650 | SOC $24,100 |
| London, UK | £62,471 | £106,873 | SOC $44,402 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$101,081 | CA$177,211 | SOC $76,130 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a SOC Analyst or Network Engineer earn more?+
A Network Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a SOC Analyst is $78,000/year, compared to $134,050/year for a Network Engineer — a difference of $56,050 (72%).
Which has better career growth — SOC Analyst or Network Engineer?+
SOC Analyst roles are growing at 28% YoY while Network Engineer demand is growing at 6% YoY. SOC Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from SOC Analyst 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 — SOC Analyst or Network Engineer?+
Network Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (52% vs 55%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.