5 answers
Oreoluwa
Student
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
2
Questions
Asked
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Is the starting salary for an I.T. career above $75,000 a year?
What factors contribute to the starting salary of an I.T. career exceeding $75,000 annually?
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5 answers
Gabriel Kasten Altamirano
Software Developer
2
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Gabriel’s Answer
Hi Oreoluwa,
That will depend not only on the area you want to focus (Development, QA, Devops, Support, ...) but also on the company, location and your interview performance. HR people normally have a wide salary range and the offer will depend on your performance and negotiation skills. You can use the following page to have an idea of the salaries depending on the company and location of preference.
https://www.levels.fyi/?compare=Amazon,Walmart,Cisco&track=Software%20Engineer
That will depend not only on the area you want to focus (Development, QA, Devops, Support, ...) but also on the company, location and your interview performance. HR people normally have a wide salary range and the offer will depend on your performance and negotiation skills. You can use the following page to have an idea of the salaries depending on the company and location of preference.
https://www.levels.fyi/?compare=Amazon,Walmart,Cisco&track=Software%20Engineer
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Alright, Oreoluwa, let’s talk about making those I.T. dollars! 💰 You want to know if the starting salary for an I.T. career is above $75,000? Well, you’re in for a fun (and maybe slightly surprising) ride through the world of tech salaries. Buckle up, because we’re diving into the factors that can make your paycheck as big as your potential in the I.T. field!
1. The $75K Question: Is It Possible to Start High?
Yes! It’s possible, but not guaranteed, and there are a few factors that play into whether you’ll start making $75,000+ in your first I.T. job. It’s like trying to score A’s in every subject – totally achievable, but you’ve got to work for it!
General Starting Salary for I.T. Careers:
Typical range: Most entry-level I.T. jobs (think helpdesk support, technical support analyst, or IT technician) start around $45,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on location and the company. These jobs are a great start, but they may not reach $75,000 immediately.
However, certain I.T. careers can indeed start higher, particularly with specific skills, advanced certifications, and in-demand roles. For example:
Cybersecurity Analyst: $60,000 - $90,000+
Software Engineer/Developer: $70,000 - $100,000+
Data Scientist: $75,000 - $120,000+
Cloud Engineer: $80,000 - $100,000+
---
2. Factors That Contribute to Your Starting Salary Exceeding $75,000
Ready to see what makes you a high-paying I.T. rookie? It’s not just about knowing how to turn the computer off and on (though that's a pretty good start). Let’s break down some of the key factors that determine if your starting salary will smash the $75K mark.
1. Specialized Skills (The Secret Sauce)
Skills like:
Cloud Computing (Think AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure)
Cybersecurity (Hackers gotta be stopped! 💥)
Software Development (Writing code like a tech wizard 🧙♂️)
Data Science & Machine Learning (For the future nerds 👨💻)
DevOps (Bridging the gap between development and IT operations—aka the peacekeeper of tech!)
If you’ve got specialized skills, you’re more likely to land that $75,000+ starting salary. Why? Because these fields are super in demand and companies are willing to pay top dollar for talented individuals who can make a real impact right away.
Pro Tip: Certifications are your best friend here. Want to show off your skills? Get certified in AWS, CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or Google Cloud to boost your credibility and your paycheck. 🎓💸
2. Location, Location, Location (It’s not just about real estate)
Are you in San Francisco? Prepare for a salary bump. Are you in a small town in the Midwest? Your starting salary might be a little lower.
Big Tech Hubs (think Silicon Valley, Seattle, New York, and Austin) offer some crazy salaries, thanks to the demand for tech talent.
Smaller cities might not offer the same salary, but hey, the cost of living is lower, so it's a trade-off.
Fun Fact: The Silicon Valley effect is real! If you're ready to move to tech meccas like San Jose, CA, you might even see a $90,000+ salary as a starting point for a junior role.
3. Type of Company (The Big League vs. The Startups)
Big Tech Companies (like Google, Amazon, Microsoft): These guys love to pay big bucks, especially for tech talent. Start there, and $75,000 is just your starting line.
Startups: Sometimes these companies offer equity or stock options instead of a high salary (but hey, you could be rolling in the dough in the future if the company hits it big).
Fun Tip: Sometimes, the dream job isn’t just about the salary. If you work for a small startup, the equity (ownership) you earn could be worth millions in the long run. So make sure to weigh the options before choosing where you land your first I.T. job!
4. Your Experience and Education (Because You’re a Genius, Right?)
Education: A degree in computer science, software engineering, or cybersecurity helps, especially from a top university. It’s like the Golden Ticket to the tech world!
But don’t worry, if you don’t have a degree, there are bootcamps and certifications that can also help you break in.
Experience: Did you intern or freelance in high school? Then you’re already ahead of the game! Employers love to see practical experience, and having that on your resume can bump your starting salary to higher levels.
Pro Tip: Even side projects or open-source contributions can help you earn extra $$$ by showing real-world skills.
5. Negotiation Skills (The Art of Asking for More 💪)
If you’ve got the skills, the experience, and the education, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Seriously. Employers expect it, and it’s a great way to earn more at the start.
Fun Tip: When you’re in an interview and they give you an offer, say, “That’s great, but I was hoping for something closer to $80,000. Based on my research and skills in cybersecurity/Java development/ (you fill in the blank), I believe I bring the value needed for this role.” It’s like Power Move 101. 😎
---
3. Are There Any “Catch-All” Jobs That Can Start Above $75K?
Definitely! Some roles just have higher entry-level salaries by nature:
Cloud Engineer: Start around $80,000+
Data Scientist: Starts around $75,000 - $85,000
AI/ML Engineer: Starts around $80,000 - $90,000+
Cybersecurity Analyst: Starts around $70,000 - $90,000
---
Final Thoughts: Is $75K Possible?
Yes, you can absolutely start earning above $75,000 in your first I.T. job, especially if you focus on specialized skills and strategic location. It’s all about positioning yourself with the right training, certifications, and industry experience.
And hey, let’s not forget the most important factor — You’ve got this. With the right skills, a dash of ambition, and a sprinkle of luck, you could be making $75K+ in no time!
So go ahead, gear up for that high-paying I.T. career and get ready to level up your life like the tech genius you’re destined to be. 🚀💻
1. The $75K Question: Is It Possible to Start High?
Yes! It’s possible, but not guaranteed, and there are a few factors that play into whether you’ll start making $75,000+ in your first I.T. job. It’s like trying to score A’s in every subject – totally achievable, but you’ve got to work for it!
General Starting Salary for I.T. Careers:
Typical range: Most entry-level I.T. jobs (think helpdesk support, technical support analyst, or IT technician) start around $45,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on location and the company. These jobs are a great start, but they may not reach $75,000 immediately.
However, certain I.T. careers can indeed start higher, particularly with specific skills, advanced certifications, and in-demand roles. For example:
Cybersecurity Analyst: $60,000 - $90,000+
Software Engineer/Developer: $70,000 - $100,000+
Data Scientist: $75,000 - $120,000+
Cloud Engineer: $80,000 - $100,000+
---
2. Factors That Contribute to Your Starting Salary Exceeding $75,000
Ready to see what makes you a high-paying I.T. rookie? It’s not just about knowing how to turn the computer off and on (though that's a pretty good start). Let’s break down some of the key factors that determine if your starting salary will smash the $75K mark.
1. Specialized Skills (The Secret Sauce)
Skills like:
Cloud Computing (Think AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure)
Cybersecurity (Hackers gotta be stopped! 💥)
Software Development (Writing code like a tech wizard 🧙♂️)
Data Science & Machine Learning (For the future nerds 👨💻)
DevOps (Bridging the gap between development and IT operations—aka the peacekeeper of tech!)
If you’ve got specialized skills, you’re more likely to land that $75,000+ starting salary. Why? Because these fields are super in demand and companies are willing to pay top dollar for talented individuals who can make a real impact right away.
Pro Tip: Certifications are your best friend here. Want to show off your skills? Get certified in AWS, CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or Google Cloud to boost your credibility and your paycheck. 🎓💸
2. Location, Location, Location (It’s not just about real estate)
Are you in San Francisco? Prepare for a salary bump. Are you in a small town in the Midwest? Your starting salary might be a little lower.
Big Tech Hubs (think Silicon Valley, Seattle, New York, and Austin) offer some crazy salaries, thanks to the demand for tech talent.
Smaller cities might not offer the same salary, but hey, the cost of living is lower, so it's a trade-off.
Fun Fact: The Silicon Valley effect is real! If you're ready to move to tech meccas like San Jose, CA, you might even see a $90,000+ salary as a starting point for a junior role.
3. Type of Company (The Big League vs. The Startups)
Big Tech Companies (like Google, Amazon, Microsoft): These guys love to pay big bucks, especially for tech talent. Start there, and $75,000 is just your starting line.
Startups: Sometimes these companies offer equity or stock options instead of a high salary (but hey, you could be rolling in the dough in the future if the company hits it big).
Fun Tip: Sometimes, the dream job isn’t just about the salary. If you work for a small startup, the equity (ownership) you earn could be worth millions in the long run. So make sure to weigh the options before choosing where you land your first I.T. job!
4. Your Experience and Education (Because You’re a Genius, Right?)
Education: A degree in computer science, software engineering, or cybersecurity helps, especially from a top university. It’s like the Golden Ticket to the tech world!
But don’t worry, if you don’t have a degree, there are bootcamps and certifications that can also help you break in.
Experience: Did you intern or freelance in high school? Then you’re already ahead of the game! Employers love to see practical experience, and having that on your resume can bump your starting salary to higher levels.
Pro Tip: Even side projects or open-source contributions can help you earn extra $$$ by showing real-world skills.
5. Negotiation Skills (The Art of Asking for More 💪)
If you’ve got the skills, the experience, and the education, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Seriously. Employers expect it, and it’s a great way to earn more at the start.
Fun Tip: When you’re in an interview and they give you an offer, say, “That’s great, but I was hoping for something closer to $80,000. Based on my research and skills in cybersecurity/Java development/ (you fill in the blank), I believe I bring the value needed for this role.” It’s like Power Move 101. 😎
---
3. Are There Any “Catch-All” Jobs That Can Start Above $75K?
Definitely! Some roles just have higher entry-level salaries by nature:
Cloud Engineer: Start around $80,000+
Data Scientist: Starts around $75,000 - $85,000
AI/ML Engineer: Starts around $80,000 - $90,000+
Cybersecurity Analyst: Starts around $70,000 - $90,000
---
Final Thoughts: Is $75K Possible?
Yes, you can absolutely start earning above $75,000 in your first I.T. job, especially if you focus on specialized skills and strategic location. It’s all about positioning yourself with the right training, certifications, and industry experience.
And hey, let’s not forget the most important factor — You’ve got this. With the right skills, a dash of ambition, and a sprinkle of luck, you could be making $75K+ in no time!
So go ahead, gear up for that high-paying I.T. career and get ready to level up your life like the tech genius you’re destined to be. 🚀💻
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
179
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Oreoluwa,
There are several factors that contribute to those starting salaries you are seeing. One of the most important ones to consider is the skillsets required. Many roles often require some form of keen understanding of concepts like networking, Cybersecurity, Coding, Terminology and architecture etc. Often there's also some sort of education or certifications that companies are looking for when hiring someone as well as a demonstration that one knows and understands these things. This is generally known as having a specialized skillset. We tend to see jobs that require specialized skillsets are often highly compensated as well. There's also supply and demand meaning there are potentially more companies looking for this type of IT skillset than there are workers available. Thus companies have to offer a very enticing salary to encourage and retain people in those IT roles.
There are several factors that contribute to those starting salaries you are seeing. One of the most important ones to consider is the skillsets required. Many roles often require some form of keen understanding of concepts like networking, Cybersecurity, Coding, Terminology and architecture etc. Often there's also some sort of education or certifications that companies are looking for when hiring someone as well as a demonstration that one knows and understands these things. This is generally known as having a specialized skillset. We tend to see jobs that require specialized skillsets are often highly compensated as well. There's also supply and demand meaning there are potentially more companies looking for this type of IT skillset than there are workers available. Thus companies have to offer a very enticing salary to encourage and retain people in those IT roles.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Oreoluwa!
Starting Salary for an I.T. Career Above $75,000
The starting salary for an Information Technology (I.T.) career can indeed exceed $75,000 annually, depending on various factors. As of 2025, many entry-level positions in the I.T. field offer salaries that meet or surpass this threshold, particularly in high-demand areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
Factors Contributing to Starting Salaries Exceeding $75,000
Location: Geographic location plays a significant role in determining salary levels. Major tech hubs like Silicon Valley (California), New York City (New York), and Seattle (Washington) typically offer higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), metropolitan areas with a high concentration of tech companies often report starting salaries well above the national average.
Educational Background: The level of education attained can significantly influence starting salaries. Candidates with advanced degrees (such as a Master’s in Computer Science or an MBA with a focus on information systems) may command higher starting salaries compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, graduates from prestigious universities or specialized programs may also have an advantage in salary negotiations.
Technical Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in specific programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C#), frameworks, and tools can enhance employability and salary potential. Certifications from recognized organizations (like CompTIA Security+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or AWS Certified Solutions Architect) can also provide candidates with a competitive edge that justifies higher starting salaries.
Industry Demand: The demand for I.T. professionals varies by industry; sectors such as finance, healthcare, and technology are often willing to pay more for skilled workers due to their reliance on technology solutions. For example, roles in cybersecurity are particularly lucrative given the increasing focus on data protection and compliance.
Internship Experience: Prior work experience through internships or co-op programs can significantly boost a candidate’s marketability and starting salary. Employers often value practical experience highly and may offer better compensation packages to candidates who have demonstrated their skills in real-world settings.
Company Size and Type: Larger tech companies or established firms tend to offer more competitive salaries than smaller startups or non-tech companies due to their greater financial resources and need for specialized talent.
Negotiation Skills: A candidate’s ability to negotiate effectively during the hiring process can also impact their starting salary. Those who research industry standards and articulate their value proposition clearly may secure offers above the initial range presented by employers.
In summary, while many entry-level I.T. positions do start at salaries exceeding $75,000 annually—especially in certain locations and industries—the actual figure will depend on multiple interrelated factors including location, education level, technical skills, industry demand, prior experience, company size/type, and negotiation abilities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment statistics across various industries including salary information for different job roles within the I.T sector.
Glassdoor: Glassdoor offers insights into employee-reported salaries across numerous companies and industries which helps gauge current market trends regarding compensation.
Payscale: Payscale is a resource that aggregates salary data based on job title, location, experience level, education background among other factors providing detailed insights into compensation trends within the I.T field.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Starting Salary for an I.T. Career Above $75,000
The starting salary for an Information Technology (I.T.) career can indeed exceed $75,000 annually, depending on various factors. As of 2025, many entry-level positions in the I.T. field offer salaries that meet or surpass this threshold, particularly in high-demand areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
Factors Contributing to Starting Salaries Exceeding $75,000
Location: Geographic location plays a significant role in determining salary levels. Major tech hubs like Silicon Valley (California), New York City (New York), and Seattle (Washington) typically offer higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), metropolitan areas with a high concentration of tech companies often report starting salaries well above the national average.
Educational Background: The level of education attained can significantly influence starting salaries. Candidates with advanced degrees (such as a Master’s in Computer Science or an MBA with a focus on information systems) may command higher starting salaries compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, graduates from prestigious universities or specialized programs may also have an advantage in salary negotiations.
Technical Skills and Certifications: Proficiency in specific programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C#), frameworks, and tools can enhance employability and salary potential. Certifications from recognized organizations (like CompTIA Security+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or AWS Certified Solutions Architect) can also provide candidates with a competitive edge that justifies higher starting salaries.
Industry Demand: The demand for I.T. professionals varies by industry; sectors such as finance, healthcare, and technology are often willing to pay more for skilled workers due to their reliance on technology solutions. For example, roles in cybersecurity are particularly lucrative given the increasing focus on data protection and compliance.
Internship Experience: Prior work experience through internships or co-op programs can significantly boost a candidate’s marketability and starting salary. Employers often value practical experience highly and may offer better compensation packages to candidates who have demonstrated their skills in real-world settings.
Company Size and Type: Larger tech companies or established firms tend to offer more competitive salaries than smaller startups or non-tech companies due to their greater financial resources and need for specialized talent.
Negotiation Skills: A candidate’s ability to negotiate effectively during the hiring process can also impact their starting salary. Those who research industry standards and articulate their value proposition clearly may secure offers above the initial range presented by employers.
In summary, while many entry-level I.T. positions do start at salaries exceeding $75,000 annually—especially in certain locations and industries—the actual figure will depend on multiple interrelated factors including location, education level, technical skills, industry demand, prior experience, company size/type, and negotiation abilities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment statistics across various industries including salary information for different job roles within the I.T sector.
Glassdoor: Glassdoor offers insights into employee-reported salaries across numerous companies and industries which helps gauge current market trends regarding compensation.
Payscale: Payscale is a resource that aggregates salary data based on job title, location, experience level, education background among other factors providing detailed insights into compensation trends within the I.T field.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Firoz Ghandhi
27
Answers
Updated
Firoz’s Answer
If the category is in high demand, then yes. Data science with internships was receiving $75,000 starting 2 years ago. AI is in so in demand.