▼33%
$109,030
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$68k
MEDIAN
$109k
90%
$156k
The average salary for a Penetration Tester is $109,030 in 2026
Base Salary
$68k - $156k
Bonus
$2k - $12k
Profit Sharing
$6k - $19k
Total Pay
$67k - $167k
Is Average Penetration Tester Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Penetration Testers?
What Do Penetration Testers Do?
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How do Penetration Testers Rate Their Jobs?
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Common Health Benefits for a Penetration Tester
Medical
91%
Dental
84%
Vision
79%
None
9%
Gender Breakdown for Penetration Testers
Male
82.6%
Female
14.5%
Prefer to self-define
1.4%
This data is based on 69 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Penetration Testers
What is the highest pay for Penetration Testers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Penetration Tester is $156k / year
What is the lowest pay for Penetration Testers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Penetration Tester is $68k / year
How can Penetration Testers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Penetration Tester is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Penetration Tester that oversees more junior Penetration Testers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.