Security Engineer Salary Guide (2026)
Security Engineer5 locationsUpdated 2026
Global Salary Range
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Compare compensation across cities to find the best opportunities for your career and lifestyle.
| Location | Salary Range | Median | Cost of LivingCoL |
|---|---|---|---|
| RemoteUnited States | $161,014 – $223,002 | $192,008 | 100/100 |
| San FranciscoUnited States | $111,803 – $312,614 | $186,953 | 70.4/100 |
| New YorkUnited States | $91,518 – $265,772 | $155,958 | 100/100 |
| Washington DCUnited States | $87,096 – $123,888 | $105,492 | 143.9/100 |
| LondonUnited Kingdom | £40,000 – £90,000 | £70,000 | 81.4/100 |
Security Engineer salaries vary significantly by location, experience level, and company size. Across the 5 locations we track, the average median salary is $160,103.
The highest-paying location is Remote, where the median salary reaches $192,008 (cost of living index: 100/100). However, high salaries don't always translate to higher purchasing power — factor in the cost of living and tax implications for each location.
United States: US-based security engineers earn between $87,096 and $312,614. Cities like Remote, San Francisco and New York offer the most competitive packages.
United Kingdom: UK-based roles range from £40,000 to £90,000.
These figures reflect base compensation and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other benefits that can add 10–30% to total compensation at top companies. For the most accurate picture, click into a specific city to see detailed breakdowns, top hiring companies, and career advice tailored to that market.
Go beyond salary data — practical guides to help you land the role and negotiate the best offer.
The average median security engineer salary across 5 locations is $160,103. However, this varies significantly by location — from $87,096 to $312,614 depending on the city and market.
Remote offers the highest median salary at $192,008. US tech hubs generally lead in absolute salary, though European cities can offer better work-life balance and benefits.
Location is one of the biggest factors. The gap between the lowest and highest paying cities can be 2-4x. Cost of living adjustments, local market demand, and company concentration all play a role. Remote positions are increasingly competitive but may adjust based on your location.
The salary ranges shown reflect base compensation. Total compensation at top companies can be 10-30% higher when including annual bonuses, equity/RSU grants, and other benefits. Senior roles at FAANG-level companies often have equity that exceeds base salary.
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