The average salary for a Network Engineer in the US is $105,000 per year.
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain communication networks that keep organizations connected and secure. In the US, this role is essential across telecom companies, financial institutions, healthcare systems, government agencies, and enterprise organizations. Salaries vary based on infrastructure complexity, security expertise, and cloud networking experience. Professionals who manage high-availability and secure networks often earn higher compensation.
Salary Statistics: Network Engineer (US)
| Salary Type | Annual Pay (USD) |
|---|---|
| Average Salary | $105,000 |
| Median Salary | $100,000 |
| Lowest Salary | $70,000 |
| Highest Salary | $165,000 |
Gender Pay Analysis in Network Engineer
Gender pay differences for Network Engineers in the US are influenced by certification level, experience, and organization size.
| Gender | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Compared to National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Male | $108,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Female | $102,000 | ▼ −3% |
| Non-binary / Not Disclosed | $105,000 | ▲ +0% |
Compensation gaps often decrease at senior levels where salary is tied to network performance and security outcomes.
Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level
Entry-level Network Engineers in the US typically earn around $70,000 per year. These roles focus on configuring routers and switches, monitoring network traffic, and assisting senior engineers. Most professionals at this level have 0–2 years of experience. Building strong networking fundamentals is essential for career growth.
Mid-Level
Mid-level Network Engineers usually earn between $90,000 and $125,000 per year. At this stage, professionals manage network upgrades, optimize performance, and troubleshoot complex connectivity issues. This level commonly requires 3–6 years of experience. Certifications and cloud networking knowledge often lead to higher pay.
Senior Level
Senior Network Engineers earn $145,000 or more per year, with top roles reaching $165,000 in large US organizations. These professionals design enterprise network architectures, lead infrastructure projects, and manage security integrations. Compensation reflects responsibility for maintaining secure and reliable communication systems.
Certifications for Network Engineer
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- CompTIA Network+
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- AWS Advanced Networking Specialty
Key Skills That Impact Salary
- Router and switch configuration
- Network security
- Cloud networking
- Firewall management
- Troubleshooting and diagnostics
- Infrastructure design
Best-paying cities for Network Engineer in the US
| City | Avg Salary (USD) | Compared to National Salary ($105,000) |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $124,000 | ▲ +18% |
| New York, NY | $116,000 | ▲ +10% |
| Seattle, WA | $112,000 | ▲ +7% |
| Boston, MA | $108,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Austin, TX | $101,000 | ▼ −4% |
| Atlanta, GA | $96,000 | ▼ −9% |
| Dallas, TX | $95,000 | ▼ −10% |
| Remote (US) | $106,000 | ▲ +1% |
| Chicago, IL | $98,000 | ▼ −7% |
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Future Outlook for Network Engineer Compensation
Demand for Network Engineers remains steady as organizations require secure and scalable communication systems. Professionals with expertise in cloud networking and cybersecurity are expected to see continued salary growth in the US job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is $100,000 a good salary for a Network Engineer?
Yes, $100,000 is competitive for mid-level roles depending on location and certifications.
Can Network Engineers earn over $150,000?
Yes, senior Network Engineers and those managing large infrastructures can exceed $150,000 annually.
Do networking certifications increase salary?
Yes, certifications such as CCNP and cloud networking credentials significantly improve earning potential.
Are remote Network Engineer roles common?
Yes, many organizations offer remote or hybrid network engineering positions.
Which industries pay Network Engineers the most?
Technology, finance, telecommunications, and enterprise organizations typically offer higher salaries.
How long does it take to become a senior Network Engineer?
It usually takes 6–10 years of experience in networking and infrastructure roles.
Is Network Engineering a stable career in the US?
Yes, reliable network infrastructure remains critical for businesses, ensuring steady demand for skilled engineers.
