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Computer Forensics Analyst I Salary in the United States

How much does a Computer Forensics Analyst I make in the United States?

As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Computer Forensics Analyst I in the United States is $102,426 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $49.

However, a Computer Forensics Analyst I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $116,032
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $93,220 to $109,548
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $84,838
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Computer Forensics Analyst I Salaries

A Computer Forensics Analyst I'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.

How Experience Level Affects Computer Forensics Analyst I Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Computer Forensics Analyst I'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:

  • Computer Forensics Analyst I (2-4 years): $102,426
  • Computer Forensics Analyst II (4-7 years): $124,951
  • Computer Forensics Analyst III (7+ years): $144,555
  • Computer Forensics Analyst IV (7-10 years): $174,761
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Computer Forensics Analyst I2-4 years$102,426
Computer Forensics Analyst II4-7 years$124,951
Computer Forensics Analyst III7+ years$144,555
Computer Forensics Analyst IV7-10 years$174,761
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How Do Computer Forensics Analyst Is Salaries Vary from State to State?

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 Computer Forensics Analyst Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $113,406.
  • California: $112,976.
  • Massachusetts: $111,470.

Top Paying Cities for Computer Forensics Analyst I

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $129,190
  • San Francisco: $127,775
  • Oakland: $125,083

Computer Forensics Analyst I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Computer Forensics Analyst I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $114,660. While startup companies pay approximate $97,000.

Computer Forensics Analyst I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $97,000
Growth Stage 51~500 $102,589
Established 501~5000 $110,725
Enterprise 5000+ $114,660

Computer Forensics Analyst I Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Computer Forensics Analyst I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 20% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Biotechnology sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 10% above the average. In contrast, Computer Forensics Analyst positions in Telecom or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Computer Forensics Analyst I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Computer Forensics Analyst I

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Aerospace & Defense$112,669$54.010%
Biotechnology$112,669$54.010%
Financial Services$112,669$54.010%
Healthcare$112,669$54.010%
Software & Networking$112,669$54.010%

Computer Forensics Analyst I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Computer Forensics Analyst I'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, 2026
$93,220
Average $102,426/year
$109,548
$7,768
Average $8,536/month
$9,129
$1,793
Average $1,970/week
$2,107
$45
Average $49/hour
$53
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $109,548 $9,129 $2,107 $53
Average $102,426 $8,536 $1,970 $49
25th Percentile $93,220 $7,768 $1,793 $45

Computer Forensics Analyst I Salary Growth & Career Path

Computer Forensics Analyst I

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Advancement

For a Computer Forensics Analyst I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Computer Forensics Analyst II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $124,951 - a projected growth of 22% over your current level.

Most common benefits for Computer Forensics Analyst I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Computer Forensics Analyst I

Here are companies hiring for Computer Forensics Analyst I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Computer Forensics Analyst I

1. Where can a Computer Forensics Analyst I earn the most?

A Computer Forensics Analyst I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Computer Forensics Analyst I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Computer Forensics Analyst I is $129,190.

2. What is the highest pay for Computer Forensics Analyst I?

The highest pay for Computer Forensics Analyst I is $116,032.

3. What is the lowest pay for Computer Forensics Analyst I?

The lowest pay for Computer Forensics Analyst I is $84,838.

4. What are the responsibilities of Computer Forensics Analyst I?

Performs forensic analysis on computer systems and servers. Investigates cybersecurity incidents using digital forensic techniques and tools. Collects, preserves, and analyzes digital evidence. Recovers emails, databases, and other potentially lost or compromised data. Documents and reports on findings, and recommends next steps. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience.

5. What industry pays the highest salary for Computer Forensics Analyst I?

The Aerospace & Defense industry offers the highest average compensation for Computer Forensics Analyst I roles, with salaries approximately 10% above the market median.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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