Salary Expectations and Job Market Trends in Cybersecurity: What Career Switchers Should Know

Considering a career in cybersecurity? You’re not alone-and you’re certainly not too late. With cyber threats appearing in headlines daily and businesses worldwide seeking ways to protect themselves, the cybersecurity field is poised for significant growth, particularly for career switchers. 

But what does the pay look like? What are the most in-demand roles? What can you expect if you’re starting from scratch? 

Here’s the guide you always wanted someone to give you before attempting a switch.

Why Cybersecurity Is a Career Switcher’s Goldmine in 2025

There’s no sugarcoating it: cybersecurity is a job-seeker’s market. As of 2023, over 4 million cybersecurity jobs were unfilled worldwide a number that’s only growing. 

According to (ISC)² and Cybersecurity Ventures, this isn’t slowing down. Why? Because every business, from banks to bakeries, needs people who can spot, stop, and explain digital threats.

Zooming in on the United States the world’s largest tech market here’s what the gap looks like in 2024:

Exhibit: The US Cybersecurity Talent Gap (2024). Source: CyberSeek.org

 Salary Expectations Across Roles

Cybersecurity roles offer competitive salaries, reflecting the high demand and specialised skills required. Here’s a breakdown:​

1. Entry-Level Positions:
   • Information Security Analyst: Median annual wage of $120,360 per year as of May 2023. ​Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Mid-Level Roles:
   • Cybersecurity Engineer: Average base salary ranges from $102,000 to $151,000.
   • Cloud Security Engineer: Average base salary ranges from $97,000 to $143,000. ​Infosec Institute
3. Senior Positions:
   • Network Security Architect: Average base salary ranges from $135,000 to $191,000.
   • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): Median salary of $256,040 annually. ​Infosec InstituteCybersecurity Tribe+5nexford.edu+5Motion Recruitment+5

Note: Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, certifications, and the specific industry.

Hot Job Market Trends in Cybersecurity (2023–2024)

1. Demand Isn’t Just for Techies

Companies want communicators, trainers, compliance experts, and policy researchers—not just coders. If you have people skills or business sense, you’re already ahead of the curve.

2. Remote Work Is Real

Cybersecurity jobs are among the most remote-friendly. In 2024, over 30% of cybersecurity roles in the US and Singapore are fully remote or hybrid (source: LinkedIn Jobs 2024).

3. Upskilling > Degrees

Certifications like CompTIA Security+, (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity, and even short, project-based bootcamps (like MAGES Institute’s Professional Certificate in Cybersecurity) are your ticket in. Employers care about skills, not just diplomas.

4. Emerging Roles

Demand is rising fast for:

• Cloud Security Specialists
• Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts
• Privacy Officers
• Red Team/Blue Team Operators

Exhibit: Top 5 Fastest-Growing Roles in Cybersecurity (2024)

What Does This Mean for Career Switchers?

1. Transferable Skills Are In Demand

If you’ve ever managed a crisis, trained a team, analyzed data, or handled compliance, you’re bringing value. Cybersecurity is about protecting people as much as systems.

2. Fast-Track Is Possible

With focused training and a few certs, you can be job-ready in as little as 6–12 months. Many have done it—teachers, bankers, marketers, and more.

3. Growth and Security

Cybersecurity offers real career stability. The field is projected to grow by over 30% through 2033 (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024).

How to Launch Your Career in Cybersecurity: A Stepwise Guide for Switchers

Ready to make your move? Here’s how to break into a career in cybersecurity even if you’re starting from zero:

1. Build a Strong Foundation Start by understanding the essentials: how computers, networks, and security threats work. Don’t worry, there are plenty of beginner-friendly resources, from free YouTube channels to news sites like The Hacker News and Krebs on Security. A little curiosity goes a long way.
2. Earn an Entry-Level Certification Certifications are your ticket past the “do you have experience?” hurdle. Industry-recognized credentials like CompTIA Security+ or (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) show employers you’re serious, and they’re designed with newcomers in mind.
3. Get Real, Hands-On Experience Theory is great, but practical skills seal the deal. Try Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, virtual labs, or even help secure data at a local business or nonprofit. Every bit of practice gives you stories to tell in interviews.
4. Grow Your Network You’re not in this alone! Join LinkedIn communities, attend webinars, and reach out to people who’ve already made the switch especially MAGES alumni, who’ve walked this path themselves. Mentorship accelerates your progress and opens doors.
5. Create a Simple Portfolio Document your learning journey. Whether it’s blog posts, “how I solved this challenge” write-ups, or sample security reports, a portfolio proves your skills and your determination.

Pro tip: Cybersecurity is a team sport. The more you learn and connect, the faster you’ll find your niche.

Let me know if you want to make this even more actionable (like adding links or a sample learning path), or want a custom “for you if…” callout for different backgrounds!

Final Word: The Future Is Secure (For You, Too)

Switching to a career in cybersecurity isn’t just doable, it’s one of the smartest moves you can make in 2025. The pay is strong, the demand is explosive, and your unique skills are needed now more than ever.

So why wait for another headline-making hack? Your future-proof career is just a step (or cert) away.

Thinking of making your move? Check out the Professional Certificate in Cybersecurity at MAGES Institute and join a new wave of digital defenders no tech degree required.