The average salary for a Penetration Tester in the US is $125,000 per year.
Penetration Testers, also known as ethical hackers, simulate cyber attacks to identify security weaknesses in systems, networks, and applications. In the US, this role is in strong demand across finance, healthcare, SaaS, and government sectors. Salaries vary based on technical depth, certifications, and the complexity of testing environments. Professionals who can uncover critical vulnerabilities before attackers do often earn higher compensation.
Salary Statistics: Penetration Tester (US)
| Salary Type | Annual Pay (USD) |
|---|---|
| Average Salary | $125,000 |
| Median Salary | $120,000 |
| Lowest Salary | $80,000 |
| Highest Salary | $205,000 |
Gender Pay Analysis in Penetration Tester
Gender pay differences for Penetration Testers in the US are influenced by specialization, industry exposure, and years of experience. As technical roles rely heavily on skill-based pay, compensation gaps are often narrower compared to other professions.
| Gender | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Compared to National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Male | $128,000 | ▲ +2% |
| Female | $122,000 | ▼ −2% |
| Non-binary / Not Disclosed | $125,000 | ▲ +0% |
Compensation differences typically decrease at senior levels where expertise and certifications drive pay decisions.
Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level
Entry-level Penetration Testers in the US typically earn around $80,000 per year. These roles focus on assisting with vulnerability scans, documenting findings, and supporting senior testers. Most professionals at this level have 0–2 years of experience. Building strong skills in networking, scripting, and security tools is essential for salary growth.
Mid-Level
Mid-level Penetration Testers usually earn between $105,000 and $155,000 per year. At this stage, professionals conduct independent penetration tests, exploit vulnerabilities, and deliver detailed security reports. This level commonly requires 3–6 years of experience. Strong technical skills and successful engagements often lead to consistent salary increases.
Senior Level
Senior Penetration Testers earn $175,000 or more per year, with top roles reaching $205,000 in major US organizations. These professionals lead red team operations, design complex attack simulations, and advise executive teams on risk mitigation strategies. Compensation reflects advanced technical expertise and leadership responsibility.
Certifications and Skills for Penetration Tester
Certifications and advanced technical skills significantly influence a Penetration Tester’s salary in the US. Recognized credentials and hands-on expertise increase earning potential.
Common Certifications
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
- GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
- Certified Red Team Professional (CRTP)
Key Skills That Impact Salary
- Network and web application testing
- Exploit development
- Scripting (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
- Red team and adversary simulation
- Vulnerability assessment tools
- Cloud security testing
Best-paying cities for Penetration Tester in the US
Penetration Tester salaries vary by city depending on cybersecurity demand and cost of living.
| City | Avg Salary (USD) | Compared to National Salary ($125,000) |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $148,000 | ▲ +18% |
| New York, NY | $138,000 | ▲ +10% |
| Seattle, WA | $134,000 | ▲ +7% |
| Boston, MA | $129,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Austin, TX | $120,000 | ▼ −4% |
| Atlanta, GA | $114,000 | ▼ −9% |
| Dallas, TX | $113,000 | ▼ −10% |
| Remote (US) | $126,000 | ▲ +1% |
| Chicago, IL | $116,000 | ▼ −7% |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is $100,000 a good salary for a Penetration Tester in the US?
Yes, $100,000 is competitive for entry-level or early mid-level roles.
Can Penetration Testers earn over $150,000?
Yes, experienced professionals and red team leaders can exceed $150,000 annually.
Do certifications increase Penetration Tester salary?
Yes, certifications like OSCP and CEH significantly improve earning potential.
Are remote Penetration Tester jobs common?
Yes, many penetration testing roles allow remote work depending on project requirements.
What industries pay Penetration Testers the most?
Finance, SaaS companies, government agencies, and cybersecurity consulting firms typically offer higher salaries.
How long does it take to become a senior Penetration Tester?
It typically takes 5–8 years of hands-on security testing experience.
Is penetration testing a stable career in the US?
Yes, demand continues to grow as organizations prioritize proactive cybersecurity defense.
