Cybersecurity Bootcamp Salary Report 2026: Entry-Level, Mid-Career & Certification Premiums in the USA
Updated on November 26, 2025 7 minutes read
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can a cybersecurity bootcamp graduate expect to earn in 2026?
Based on BLS, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter samples, many U.S. cybersecurity bootcamp graduates can target roughly $71,800–$98,700 in first-year total compensation, depending on role, location, and prior experience. Higher-paying cities, shift wo,rk and strong portfolios can push offers above this range.
Do certifications like Security+, OSCP, or CISSP really increase cybersecurity salaries?
Sample data from ZipRecruiter and ISC2 suggest meaningful uplifts: Security+ holders report around a 4 percent bump, OSCP is linked to roughly 37 percent higher averages, and CISSP holders report around $147,757 in North America, about 64 percent above non-certified peers. These figures are averages and not guaranteed, but they show a clear premium for in-demand certifications.
Is a cybersecurity bootcamp enough to reach mid-career salaries above $150K?
A bootcamp can help you land an initial analyst or junior engineer role, but mid-career salaries above $150K usually require several years of experience, continuous upskilling and often one or more advanced certifications. The Built In data shows seasoned cybersecurity engineers averaging around $162K base and $194K total compensation, which reflects both skills and time in the field rather than education alone.