Cybersecurity Analyst
$107,639
avg. annual salary
Site Reliability Engineer
pays more on average
Site Reliability Engineer
$107,733
avg. annual salary
Choosing between becoming a Cybersecurity Analyst and a Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) can be a difficult decision. Both roles are integral to the modern tech landscape, focusing on different aspects of digital infrastructure and security. While Cybersecurity Analysts primarily work to protect systems and data from breaches and attacks, Site Reliability Engineers ensure that services are reliable and scalable. Understanding the salary ranges, benefits, and career prospects of these two positions is crucial for anyone considering a career in these fields. In this guide, we will delve into the financial aspects and future outlook of both career paths, helping you make an informed decision.
Salary by Experience Level
starting salary
starting salary
avg. difference (0%)
Salary Overview
As of 2025, the average salary for a Cybersecurity Analyst is approximately $95,000, with a salary range between $75,000 and $120,000 depending on factors like experience and location. In comparison, Site Reliability Engineers earn an average salary of about $110,000, with a range from $85,000 to $140,000.
This indicates that, on average, SREs tend to earn higher salaries than Cybersecurity Analysts. However, both positions have strong earning potential and offer significant opportunities for growth.
Benefits Comparison
In addition to salaries, it's essential to consider the benefits associated with each role. Cybersecurity Analysts typically receive health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
Additionally, many companies offer opportunities for continued education and certifications. Site Reliability Engineers often have similar benefits, including competitive health insurance plans, stock options, and flexible working arrangements.
The specific benefits can vary widely depending on the employer.
Career Path Opportunities
For those looking at long-term career growth, both Cybersecurity Analysts and Site Reliability Engineers have promising paths. Cybersecurity Analysts can advance to roles such as Security Manager, Ethical Hacker, or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
On the other hand, Site Reliability Engineers may progress to positions like Senior SRE or Engineering Manager, with some eventually transitioning into DevOps roles. The growing demand for both roles indicates a healthy job market and ample opportunities for advancement.
Detailed Salary Comparison: Cybersecurity Analyst vs Site Reliability Engineer
Overview
- •Entry-level cybersecurity analyst: $60K–$75K; mid: $80K–$105K; senior: $110K–$140K.
- •Entry-level SRE: $85K–$110K; mid: $120K–$150K; senior: $160K–$200K+.
Total compensation differences
- •SRE roles at large tech firms often add 15–50% in stock/bonus; e.g., a $130K base may become $170K–$200K total.
- •Cybersecurity analysts frequently earn 5–20% in bonuses and get pay boosts from certifications (CISSP/OSCP can add ~10–20%).
Real-world example
- •A mid-level cybersecurity analyst in Austin: ~$95K base + $6K bonus.
- •A mid-level SRE in Seattle: ~$135K base + $30K RSUs + $10K bonus.
Actionable takeaway: If you want higher base plus equity, aim for SRE in tech hubs; if you prefer steady salary growth and certification-driven raises, target cybersecurity roles.
Key Factors That Affect Salary
1) Experience and role scope
- •Years matter: each 2–4 years of experience can raise pay by ~10–25% depending on responsibilities.
- •Management or architecture duties add 15–30%.
2) Skills and certifications
- •Cybersecurity: CISSP, OSCP, CEH can increase pay 7–20%.
- •SRE: strong Go/Python, distributed systems, and Kubernetes skills can add 10–25%.
3) Industry and company type
- •Finance and healthcare often pay 5–20% more than non-regulated industries.
- •Startups trade lower base for equity; public tech companies offer RSUs that can add 20–50%.
4) Location and remote work
- •SF/NY salaries typically 20–40% higher; remote roles vary—sometimes equal to local market.
5) On-call, overtime, and contract terms
- •On-call compensation typically adds $5K–$25K annually.
Actionable takeaway: Map desired skill investments (e. g.
, cloud + certification) to salary targets, then pursue roles in industries/locations that meet those targets.