As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Security Research Manager in the United States is $153,000 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $74.
However, a Security Research Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Security Research Manager's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Security Research Manager's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Security Research Analyst II | 2-4 years | $78,932 |
| Security Research Analyst III | 4-7 years | $102,905 |
| Security Research Manager | 7+ years | $152,928 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Security Research Managers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Security Research Manager salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $171,275. While startup companies pay approximate $144,894.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $144,894 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $153,243 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $165,396 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $171,275 |
For Security Research Manager roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 44% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Pharmaceuticals sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Security Research Manager positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Hospitality & Leisure typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Security Research Manager as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $183,600 | $88.0 | 20% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $180,540 | $87.0 | 18% |
| Internet | $175,950 | $85.0 | 15% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $171,360 | $82.0 | 12% |
| Biotechnology | $168,300 | $81.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Security Research Manager's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Salaries for a Security Research Manager can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $110,957 in 2023 to around $110,808 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Security Research Manager salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $110,957 |
| 2024 | $112,615 |
| 2025 | $110,808 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Financial Services industry offers the highest average compensation for Security Research Manager roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.
A career as a Security Research Manager can be quite rewarding, with salaries ranging from $131,000 to $177,400, depending on experience and location. This role not only offers a competitive salary but also excellent opportunities for growth in a rapidly evolving field. Factors such as industry demand and skill set can further influence earning potential.
The estimated total pay for a Principal Security Researcher ranges from $131,000 to $177,400 per year, with a mid-salary of $152,200. These figures reflect the salary data for Security Research Managers, providing a clear overview of potential earnings in this role.
A security researcher, often referred to as an ethical hacker or white hat hacker, is a cybersecurity professional dedicated to identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, or applications. The salary for this role typically ranges from $131,000 to $177,400, with a median salary of around $152,200, reflecting the expertise and importance of their work in protecting digital assets.
A Cisco Security Research Manager typically earns between $131,000 and $177,400 annually, with a median salary of around $152,200. While some positions may offer higher salaries, this range reflects the current market for security research roles within the company.
High Paying Research Jobs include the Security Research Manager, with a salary range of $131,000 to $177,400 per year. Other notable positions are Research Director, earning between $135,500 and $229,000, and Research Scientist, with salaries from $107,500 to $173,000. These roles reflect the lucrative opportunities available in the research field.
To become a security manager, a college degree or certificate in a related field, such as criminal justice, is typically required. This education helps you understand legal frameworks and security protocols. In terms of compensation, Security Research Managers can expect salaries ranging from $131,000 to $177,400, with a median salary of $152,200.
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