Starting in IT security is a great way to enter or advance in the Information Technology (IT) field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for senior roles can reach $124,910. However, entry-level employees are paid around $50,000 per year. 

However, the IT sector is very dynamic, and employees can expect to earn ~5,000 above or below the provided median annual wage. One of the biggest factors for this variation in range is the location. 

As employers in different cities offer different salaries, choosing the right location becomes even more crucial, and here’s how to do it.

Knowledge is Essential

Although entry-level IT security positions like junior cybersecurity support don’t require a formal degree, employers will require proof of training or certification. 

So, before applying for positions, it is highly recommended to enroll in cyber security classes to gain in-demand skills and aim for industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA Security+.  

NOTE: This practical knowledge is often valued as much as, or sometimes even more than, a traditional degree in these entry-level roles.

The Salary vs. Cost of Living 

It should be noted that a higher salary doesn’t automatically mean a higher disposable income, as a higher cost of living can take over 70% off the income. 

Therefore, a key deciding factor for choosing a location should be manageable living expenses. The role in the preferred location should offer a strong cushion against local expenses. 

High-Earning States

According to ZipRecruiter, the top highest paying states for the role of Junior Cybersecurity Support are:

Virginia: $97,089

California: $85,755

New York: $85,122

Alaska: $83,221

Washington: $81,450

Cost of Living

While these may appear as more than ideal salaries for this role, the cost of living for all the mentioned is extremely high. According to the World Population Review, the cost of living index of these states is:

Virginia: 100.8

California: 144.8

New York: 123.4

Washington: 114.2

The cost of living index may not appear high or alarming at first; however, compared to states like Mississippi, with a cost of living index at just 83.3, the high salary potential suddenly becomes irrelevant. 

Pro Tip: Entry-level employees should aim for remote roles initially to balance the expenses, along with saving for the future. These virtual roles are much similar to online cybersecurity training.

Prioritizing Opportunity and Growth

Beginners should prioritize volume of jobs and the density of the IT ecosystem more than the absolute highest salary offered. 

Not to mention, moving to a place with high job demand means more interview experience, more networking opportunities, and a faster path to an advanced role.

Key Locations to Consider

Austin, Texas: As of 2025, Austin has become a tech-centric city. More businesses are migrating to this Texas city, which in turn has created a steady increase in the demand of IT security. This also means exposure to IT professionals and learning opportunities.

Additionally, the cost of living index in Texas is just 92.7.

Chicago, Illinois: Since Chicago is a densely populated metropolitan area, it has a high volume of jobs across various sectors, from finance to logistics, all requiring protection against cyber attacks. Although the cost of living in Illinois is 94.4,  this state does offer competitive salaries to cybersecurity professionals.