Information Security Analysts vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developers out-earn Information Security Analysts by $7K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Information Security Analysts land at $129,180 and Software Developers at $135,980. The education gap is real: information security analyst programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Information Security Analysts is Washington ($154,940); for Software Developers it's California ($174,410).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Information Security Analysts median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Information Security Analysts or Software Developers?
Software Developers earn more nationally. The median is $129,180 for Information Security Analysts versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $7K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Information Security Analysts or Software Developers?
Information Security Analysts has the better 10-year outlook at 28.5% projected growth, compared to 15.8% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Information Security Analysts or Software Developers?
Information Security Analysts typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Information Security Analysts get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Information Security Analysts at $154,940/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Information Security Analysts vs. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Information Security Analysts earn $154,940 vs. $166,540 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.