Security Engineer Salary
in San Jose, CA

Security Engineer Salary in San Jose, California: Complete Guide (2026)

The median Security Engineer salary in San Jose, CA is $234,000 per year as of Q1 2026. This figure represents the midpoint of all reported compensation for this role in the San Jose–CA metropolitan area, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics, H-1B visa disclosures from the Department of Labor, and O*NET occupational data.

Salary range for Security Engineer in San Jose

Entry-level Security Engineers in San Jose with 0–2 years of experience typically earn between $182,000 and $234,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years command $234,000 to $292,000, while senior-level practitioners with 8+ years of experience regularly earn $292,000 to $363,000 or more.

Cost of living in San Jose for Security Engineers

San Jose has a cost of living index of 210 compared to the US national average of 100. San Jose's cost of living is above the US average, so the salary figures above reflect local market rates. California has a 9.3% state income tax rate.

Education requirements for Security Engineer

Bachelor's in CS or related; security certifications valued. This role is 70% remote-eligible nationally, which can significantly expand the job market for San Jose-based professionals.