How Much Does a Cybersecurity Security Engineer Make in San Francisco, CA?
A cybersecurity Security Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns approximately $204,000 at the median level (Source: BLS, 2024 data, adjusted for local cost of living). The national median for this role is $120,000.
Security Engineer Salary Range in San Francisco, CA
| Level | San Francisco, CA | National |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $144,500 | $85,000 |
| Mid-career (median) | $204,000 | $120,000 |
| Senior | $280,500 | $165,000 |
Salary data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024. Next update expected May 15, 2026. Location adjustments based on BLS regional price parities.
Cost of Living in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco has the highest cost of living among major US cities, about 70% above the national average. A one-bedroom apartment averages over $3,000 per month. Groceries and transportation also carry significant premiums. The cost of living index for San Francisco, CA is 170 (national average = 100), which means living here costs roughly 70% more than the national average.
Top Cybersecurity Employers in San Francisco, CA
Remote vs On-Site Salary Comparison
Bay Area companies increasingly offer remote or hybrid options, but on-site roles still command the highest salaries. Remote workers hired at Bay Area companies often face location-based pay adjustments of 10-25% depending on where they live.
Cybersecurity Job Demand in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco and the broader Bay Area host the headquarters of many cybersecurity vendors. Startups and established tech companies compete aggressively for security talent. The market favors candidates with cloud security and application security skills.
Compare Security Engineer Salaries in Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cybersecurity Security Engineer make in San Francisco, CA?
A Security Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns approximately $204,000 at the median, based on BLS 2024 data adjusted for local cost of living. Entry-level starts around $144,500, senior positions reach $280,500.
Is San Francisco, CA a good place for cybersecurity jobs?
San Francisco and the broader Bay Area host the headquarters of many cybersecurity vendors. Startups and established tech companies compete aggressively for security talent. The market favors candidates with cloud security and application security skills.
Salary data is compiled from public sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry surveys. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, company, and negotiation. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
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