Cybersecurity Analyst
$95,556
avg. annual salary
Python Developer
pays more on average
Python Developer
$103,681
avg. annual salary
As technology continues to evolve, the demand for professionals in cybersecurity and programming has surged. Cybersecurity Analysts protect sensitive data and systems from threats, while Python Developers create versatile applications and automate tasks using Python language. Understanding the salary ranges, benefits, and career prospects for each role is crucial for anyone looking to enter these fields or switch careers. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the salaries of Cybersecurity Analysts and Python Developers, providing insights into their respective roles, job growth potential, and overall job satisfaction. Whether you're considering a career in cybersecurity or programming, this comparison will help you make an informed decision about your future.
Salary by Experience Level
starting salary
starting salary
avg. difference (9%)
Salary Overview
In 2025, the average salary for a Cybersecurity Analyst is approximately $100,000, with entry-level positions starting around $70,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $130,000. In contrast, Python Developers earn an average salary of $95,000, with entry-level positions starting at about $65,000 and senior developers earning as much as $120,000.
While both positions offer competitive salaries, factors like experience, location, and industry play a significant role in earnings.
Benefits Comparison
Beyond salary, both careers offer attractive benefits. Cybersecurity Analysts often receive bonuses, health insurance, retirement contributions, and opportunities for continuous learning.
Python Developers also enjoy similar benefits, including flexible work hours, remote work options, and professional development reimbursements. The choice between the two roles may also depend on the type of work culture that suits you best.
Career Path and Job Growth
The job outlook for both Cybersecurity Analysts and Python Developers remains strong. The cybersecurity field is projected to grow by 35% between 2021 and 2031, primarily due to increasing cyber threats.
Meanwhile, the demand for Python Developers is also robust, with a projected growth rate of 22% over the same period, driven by the rising use of data analysis and machine learning. Both roles offer various advancement opportunities, from becoming a Lead Analyst in cybersecurity to transitioning into Data Science for Python Developers.
Which Career is Right for You?
Choosing between a Cybersecurity Analyst and a Python Developer depends on your skills and interests. If you enjoy problem-solving and thinking critically about security measures, the cybersecurity field may be for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer programming and designing solutions through coding, a role as a Python Developer could be a better fit. Consider shadowing professionals in both fields or engaging in entry-level projects to gain hands-on experience.
Conclusion
Both Cybersecurity Analysts and Python Developers enjoy fulfilling careers with significant salaries and growth potential. By comparing these two paths, you can make a more strategic decision about your career choices.
Whether you lean towards cybersecurity or programming, both fields offer a chance to contribute to technological advancement and society's safety.
Direct salary comparison (2025 estimates)
### Direct salary comparison (2025 estimates)
- •Entry-level: Cybersecurity Analyst $65,000–$90,000; Python Developer $70,000–$95,000.
- •Mid-level (3–5 years): Cybersecurity $95,000–$130,000; Python Developer $100,000–$140,000.
- •Senior: Cybersecurity $130,000–$175,000; Python Developer $140,000–$200,000.
Geography affects pay: San Francisco or New York can raise base pay by 20–40%, while security-clearance roles around Washington, D. C.
often add $10k–$30k. Across comparable seniority, Python developers usually earn about 5–15% more, but certified cybersecurity pros (CISSP, OSCP) or those with clearance can surpass that.
Actionable takeaway: pick the industry and credential path that aligns with the salary band you want and plan steps to reach it.
Key factors that affect pay
### Key factors that affect pay
- •Location: metro premiums range 15–40% for SF, NYC, Seattle; remote roles vary by employer.
- •Experience: every 2–3 years of relevant experience typically adds 10–20% to base pay.
- •Certifications & credentials: CISSP, OSCP, AWS Security commonly add $8k–$25k in total compensation.
- •Industry: finance and healthcare often pay 10–30% more than education or non-profit.
- •Role specificity: cloud security, incident response, or data engineering skills command higher rates.
- •Employment type: contractors can earn 20–40% more hourly but trade off benefits.
Actionable takeaway: build a 6–12 month plan—earn one high-value cert and complete three measurable projects to boost negotiable pay.