Penetration Tester salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Penetration Tester in United States is approximately 99,393 USD (99,043 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Penetration Tester do?

A penetration tester, also known as an ethical hacker or white hat hacker, is a professional hired to test the security of computer systems, networks, and applications. Their primary role is to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in these systems before malicious hackers can exploit them. Penetration testers use various techniques to assess the security of a system, including network scanning, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing. They simulate real-world cyber attacks to evaluate the effectiveness of security measures and provide recommendations for improvement. This occupation requires strong technical skills, knowledge of hacking techniques, and a deep understanding of security protocols and technologies.

Skills: Penetration tester, Ethical hacker, White hat hacker, Cybersecurity, Vulnerability assessment, Network security.
Job industry: Information technology

How much does Penetration Tester make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Penetration Tester a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Penetration Tester is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Penetration Tester?

High salary for Penetration Tester would be somewhere between 109,332 USD and 144,120 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Penetration Tester in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 99,393 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 8,283 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,911 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 48 USD per hour
By working as Penetration Tester a person can save up to 5,974 USD per month or 71,683 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Penetration Tester

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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