▼24%
$98,682
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$66k
MEDIAN
$99k
90%
$146k
The average salary for a Penetration Tester is $98,682 in 2025
Base Salary
$66k - $146k
Bonus
$2k - $14k
Profit Sharing
$1k - $24k
Total Pay
$66k - $154k
Is Average Penetration Tester with Penetration Testing Skills 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?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Penetration Tester
Medical
92%
Dental
84%
Vision
79%
None
8%
Gender Breakdown for Penetration Testers
Male
81.7%
Female
15.1%
Prefer to self-define
2.4%
This data is based on 126 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 $146k / year
What is the lowest pay for Penetration Testers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Penetration Tester is $66k / 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.