Tolulope MichaelScrum Master Vs Cyber Security Salary: A Comprehensive Analysis
Two key roles are currently standing out in the world of tech: Scrum Masters and Cybersecurity professionals. Both are essential to ensuring smooth operations in project management and securing valuable digital assets, respectively.
As industries continue to grow and adapt to new technologies, the demand for these professionals is on the rise. However, when it comes to salary potential, there are key differences between these two positions.
In this article, we will compare scrum master vs cyber security salary, taking into account location, certifications, experience, and industry trends.
Whether you’re exploring career options or aiming to pivot into one of these high-demand fields, understanding the earning potential of each role will help guide your decision-making process.
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What Is a Scrum Master?
A Scrum Master plays a significant role in agile project management, ensuring that teams adhere to Scrum principles and facilitating communication between the development team and the product owner.
Scrum is a framework for iterative and incremental development that encourages collaboration, flexibility, and continuous improvement. The Scrum Master is not a manager in the traditional sense but acts as a servant-leader, removing obstacles and enabling the team to work more efficiently.
The Scrum Master’s primary responsibilities include facilitating daily standups, sprint planning meetings, retrospectives, and sprint reviews. They ensure that the team follows Scrum practices and supports the team in their self-organizing processes.
Additionally, a Scrum Master works to build a strong, cohesive team culture, helping team members collaborate effectively to meet project goals.
While a Scrum Master doesn’t typically engage in coding or product development directly, their job is critical for the success of agile projects. Their role requires deep knowledge of Scrum principles, project management skills, and excellent communication capabilities to guide teams through the agile process.
Scrum Master Salary Breakdown
The salary for a Scrum Master can vary widely depending on several factors, such as location, experience, certifications, and the industry they work in. Let’s break down the general salary trends for Scrum Masters, focusing on the U.S., Canada, and various experience levels.
Scrum Master Salary in the United States
As of March 2025, the average hourly rate for a Scrum Master in the United States is approximately $58.02 per hour. This translates to an average annual salary of about $120,688.
However, this number can vary significantly depending on experience, location, and certifications. For example, in cities like Chicago, IL, the average pay is slightly higher at $60 per hour, which is about $1.75 more than the national average.
Salaries in the U.S. generally range from $49.52 at the 25th percentile to $66.11 at the 75th percentile, indicating that there are ample opportunities for pay advancement as one gains more experience and expertise in the role.
Scrum Master Salary per Month
On average, a Scrum Master in the U.S. can expect to earn $9,857 per month based on the annual salary. This amount can be higher or lower depending on the region and the company’s pay structure. For instance, a Scrum Master in high-paying cities like San Francisco or New York might earn significantly more due to the higher cost of living.
Entry-Level Scrum Master Salary
For those just starting their careers as Scrum Masters, the salary is typically lower. An Entry Level Scrum Master salary in the U.S. ranges from $58,000 to $65,000 annually, depending on the city and the individual’s level of education and certifications. As Scrum Masters gain experience and complete certifications, their salaries tend to rise steadily.
In addition to a salary, Scrum Masters often receive benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and performance bonuses, which further contribute to the total compensation package.
READ MORE: Cybersecurity Vs Artificial Intelligence Salary
Salary of a Scrum Master by Location
Location plays a significant role in determining how much a Scrum Master earns. Different cities, states, and countries offer varying salaries based on the demand for Scrum Masters, the cost of living, and the presence of major tech companies.
Below, we’ll look at how Scrum Master salaries near me (with a focus on the U.S. and Canada) can vary depending on where you are located.
Scrum Master Salary Near Me
If you’re curious about the Scrum Master salary near me, you may find significant differences even within the same country. For example, Scrum Masters working in major tech hubs like San Francisco, New York City, and Seattle can expect salaries that are significantly higher than those working in smaller cities or rural areas.
In Chicago, for instance, the average Scrum Master salary per hour is $60, which is about $1.75 higher than the national average. On the other hand, cities with lower costs of living may offer salaries closer to or slightly below the national average, such as $50–$55 per hour in smaller cities or towns.
Scrum Master Salary in Canada
When comparing the Scrum Master salary in Canada, the pay is generally lower than in the U.S. but still competitive. On average, a Scrum Master in Canada earns around CAD 85,000 to CAD 95,000 annually, which converts to roughly $62–$68 USD per hour.
However, the exact salary will vary based on location within Canada. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver offer higher salaries due to their larger tech industries, while more rural areas may pay lower salaries in line with the local economy.
In Toronto, for example, the average salary for a Scrum Master might be around CAD 100,000, which is significantly above the national Canadian average, while in cities like Ottawa or Calgary, salaries could be lower, ranging from CAD 80,000 to CAD 90,000 annually.
Top-Paying Cities for Scrum Masters
Certain cities have a higher demand for Scrum Masters and, therefore, offer higher salaries. Some of the top-paying cities for Scrum Master jobs in the U.S. include:
- San Francisco, CA: The average salary for a Scrum Master here can exceed $142,000 annually due to the high cost of living and concentration of major tech companies.
- New York, NY: With an average salary of around $130,000, New York is another city where Scrum Masters earn top-tier compensation.
- Seattle, WA: Another tech hub, Seattle offers $125,000 or more annually to Scrum Masters.
In addition to the salary, these cities may also offer benefits like stock options or bonuses, which can significantly increase total compensation.
ALSO SEE: Cybersecurity Salary: A Comprehensive Guide
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks, theft, or damage. As the world becomes increasingly connected through the internet, cybersecurity professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that sensitive information remains safe and secure.
The field of cybersecurity is vast and includes various specializations, including network security, application security, information security, and incident response.
Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing systems to protect against data breaches, cyberattacks, and other security threats. They work with advanced technologies, such as firewalls, encryption, intrusion detection systems, and security software, to safeguard an organization’s infrastructure and data.
Given the rising frequency of cyberattacks and the growing sophistication of hackers, the demand for cybersecurity professionals has skyrocketed. The need for skilled cybersecurity experts spans across industries, from finance and healthcare to government and technology, making it a dynamic and fast rising field.
Cybersecurity Salary Overview
The salary for cybersecurity professionals can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, job role, certifications, and location. Overall, the field offers competitive compensation, particularly as cybersecurity threats continue to escalate globally.
General Salary Trends for Cybersecurity Professionals
In the United States, the average salary for cybersecurity professionals is approximately $100,000 per year, with entry-level roles starting around $60,000–$70,000 annually. As professionals gain experience and specialize in areas such as penetration testing, security analysis, or network security, salaries can increase significantly.
For senior cybersecurity roles, such as a Cybersecurity Engineer or Cybersecurity Manager, salaries can rise to $130,000–$150,000 per year, with some highly experienced experts earning well above $200,000 annually, especially in large tech companies or high-demand sectors like finance and government.
Cybersecurity Salaries by Role
Cybersecurity roles vary widely in terms of job responsibilities and pay. Some common positions and their average annual salaries in the U.S. include:
- Cybersecurity Analyst: $80,000–$120,000
- Cybersecurity Engineer: $95,000–$130,000
- Cybersecurity Manager: $110,000–$150,000
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): $150,000–$250,000+
The significant variance in pay reflects the different levels of expertise required for each role. Entry-level positions in cybersecurity generally focus on monitoring and protecting networks, while senior-level roles involve designing security systems and managing complex security strategies.
Key Factors Affecting Cybersecurity Salaries
Several factors influence the salaries of cybersecurity professionals:
- Location: As with Scrum Masters, geography plays a critical role in cybersecurity salaries. Major cities and tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Washington, D.C. tend to offer higher salaries to cybersecurity professionals. In San Francisco, for example, cybersecurity roles can command salaries upwards of $150,000–$200,000 annually.
- Certifications: Earning specialized cybersecurity certifications can boost earning potential. Popular certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). Cybersecurity professionals with these certifications typically see salary increases of $10,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on the level of expertise.
- Experience: Just like Scrum Masters, cybersecurity salaries rise with experience. Entry-level positions often start lower, but with experience and advanced skills, cybersecurity professionals can move into highly lucrative roles with significant pay increases.
MORE: Cybersecurity Vs Software Engineering Salary (Cybersecurity Vs Software Developer Salary)
Comparison of Scrum Master vs Cybersecurity Salary
When comparing the salaries of Scrum Masters and Cybersecurity professionals, it’s important to evaluate key factors such as entry-level salaries, earning potential based on experience, certifications, and the impact of location.
Entry-Level Salary Comparison
At the entry level, both roles offer competitive salaries but vary depending on the specific job market and industry. Entry Level Scrum Master salaries typically range from $58,000 to $65,000 annually in the U.S., with a starting hourly rate of around $28–$31 per hour.
In contrast, entry-level cybersecurity professionals start at a salary range of $60,000 to $70,000, with positions such as Cybersecurity Analysts or IT Security Analysts offering slightly higher pay compared to a Scrum Master.
Mid-Level and Experienced Professionals
As professionals gain more experience, both roles can see significant salary increases. For Scrum Masters with 3-5 years of experience, the salary can range between $90,000 to $115,000 annually, with those in high-demand cities earning closer to the upper end of this spectrum.
Cybersecurity professionals with similar experience, such as Cybersecurity Engineers or Security Analysts, can earn between $100,000 to $130,000 annually.
Senior-Level Roles
At the senior level, the salary gap between Scrum Masters and Cybersecurity professionals tends to widen. Senior Scrum Masters with over 8 years of experience typically earn around $120,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on location and certifications.
In comparison, senior cybersecurity roles such as Cybersecurity Managers or Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) can earn $150,000 to $250,000+ annually, with the higher end of the spectrum reserved for those working in top-paying industries like finance or government.
Salary by Industry
Industries such as energy, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and insurance offer higher-than-average salaries for both Scrum Masters and cybersecurity professionals.
For example, Scrum Masters working in the energy sector may earn $130,000+, and Cybersecurity Engineers in finance or pharmaceuticals can command $150,000 to $180,000 per year.
Scrum Master vs Cybersecurity Salary in High-Paying Locations
The Scrum Master salary in United States is generally high in tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle, where salaries can exceed $130,000. Cybersecurity professionals in these areas see similarly high salaries, often surpassing $150,000 annually in more senior roles.
However, the demand for Scrum Master jobs might be lower in some industries when compared to cybersecurity, as the latter is a rapidly expanding field with a strong need for security professionals across almost all sectors.
SEE: Cybersecurity Vs Information Technology Salary
Certifications and Skills Impacting Salaries
Certifications and specialized skills are crucial factors that can significantly affect the salary potential for both Scrum Masters and Cybersecurity professionals. These credentials not only enhance an individual’s qualifications but also help differentiate them in the competitive job market.
Scrum Master Certification
For Scrum Masters, earning a Scrum Master certification is often considered a key milestone in advancing one’s career. One of the most recognized certifications is the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), which can help individuals earn a higher salary and qualify for more senior roles.
The average salary for a Scrum Master with a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification is around $101,912 annually, compared to $90,000 for those without it. More advanced certifications, such as Certified Scrum Professional (CSP), can further increase earning potential, with salaries reaching up to $132,000 per year.
In addition to formal certifications, Scrum Masters can also enhance their salary prospects through experience in agile project management, as well as familiarity with tools such as Jira and Confluence.
Cybersecurity Certifications
Similarly, for Cybersecurity professionals, certifications are a critical component of career advancement and salary growth. Highly regarded certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) can significantly increase salary potential.
- A CISSP-certified professional can expect an average salary of $115,000 to $130,000 annually, with senior CISSP experts earning $150,000 or more.
- Certified Ethical Hackers (CEH) can command salaries around $105,000, with more experienced professionals pushing this figure even higher.
- The CISM certification offers similar earning potential, with certified professionals typically earning around $110,000–$125,000 annually.
Skills That Boost Earning Potential
In addition to formal certifications, specific skills can also impact a professional’s salary. For Scrum Masters, proficiency in Agile software development, program management, and project management methodologies can lead to salary increases of up to 20%.
Scrum Masters who also have experience with coaching or mentorship can command higher rates due to the added value they provide to their teams.
For Cybersecurity professionals, skills such as penetration testing, network security, incident response, and cloud security are in high demand. Cybersecurity experts proficient in these areas can expect salaries at the higher end of the spectrum, with an additional 10-20% increase in pay compared to those with more general expertise.
Certifications and Skills
Both Scrum Master certifications and Cybersecurity certifications play a crucial role in determining salary and career growth. By investing in specialized credentials and developing relevant skills, professionals in both fields can unlock higher salary potential and open doors to more advanced roles within their respective industries.
READ: Mastering GRC: Strategies for Effective Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance in 2024
Job Market Demand and Growth Projections
The demand for both Scrum Masters and Cybersecurity professionals is on the rise, driven by the growing need for skilled talent in both project management and IT security. As businesses continue to adopt agile methodologies and face increasing cyber threats, both roles offer significant career opportunities.
Scrum Master Jobs: Current Market Trends
The job market for Scrum Master jobs remains strong, with numerous organizations across a variety of industries adopting Agile frameworks for project management.
Scrum Masters are particularly in demand in industries like software development, finance, and IT consulting, where agile methodologies are the standard for product development and project management.
While the overall number of Scrum Master roles may not be as expansive as other tech positions, the demand is still growing. Many companies, particularly in tech-heavy regions like Silicon Valley or New York City, are actively seeking Scrum Masters to oversee their agile processes.
As of 2025, companies like Google, Meta, and Apple are continuously looking for certified Scrum Masters to lead and manage agile teams.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected a 7% increase in employment for project management specialists, which includes Scrum Masters, from 2023 to 2033. This growth rate is considered average across most industries, signaling steady demand for Scrum Masters in the foreseeable future.
Cybersecurity Job Market: Explosive Growth
In contrast, the job market for Cybersecurity professionals is experiencing explosive growth. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, there is a growing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect businesses, governments, and individuals from data breaches and digital threats.
In fact, Cybersecurity jobs are among the fastest-growing roles in the tech industry.
According to the BLS, information security analyst roles, which encompass many cybersecurity positions, are expected to grow by 35% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.
This surge is fueled by the rise of cloud computing, big data, and an increasing reliance on digital platforms, all of which require robust security measures.
High-Demand Areas in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity professionals can expect strong demand in a variety of sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology, where sensitive data must be protected.
Roles such as Cybersecurity Engineers, Security Analysts, and CISOs are particularly sought after, with many of these positions offering six-figure salaries due to the specialized nature of the work.
Given the increased focus on securing digital infrastructures and systems, companies across the world are actively looking for professionals to help safeguard against cyber threats.
In fact, many organizations are willing to pay a premium for highly skilled cybersecurity professionals, with top-tier cybersecurity talent commanding salaries in the $150,000–$250,000+ range.
Job Market Demand
While both Scrum Masters and Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, the cybersecurity field is seeing much faster growth, driven by the increasing need for organizations to protect their data and digital infrastructure.
On the other hand, Scrum Masters continue to be integral to organizations adopting agile frameworks, ensuring that project management remains smooth and efficient.
For individuals looking to enter either field, both career paths offer a wealth of opportunities, but cybersecurity roles may offer more rapid growth and higher long-term earning potential due to the critical importance of security in today’s digital world.
ALSO: ERM Vs GRC: A Complete Analysis
Which Career Offers Better Salary Potential in the Long Run?
When evaluating which career; Scrum Master or Cybersecurity professional—offers better salary potential in the long run, there are several factors to consider. Both roles are well-compensated, but there are key differences in terms of growth trajectory, earning potential, and job stability.
Long-Term Earning Potential for Scrum Masters
As discussed earlier, Scrum Masters typically earn $120,000 to $150,000 annually, with opportunities for salary growth as they gain more experience and take on higher-level responsibilities. The career trajectory for Scrum Masters can be rewarding, especially if they specialize in high-demand industries like software development or IT consulting.
For senior Scrum Masters or those who transition into roles like Agile Coaches or Program Managers, salaries can increase to the range of $150,000 to $170,000 annually. While the job market for Scrum Masters is strong, it tends to grow at a more moderate pace compared to Cybersecurity, which may limit the number of high-paying opportunities in comparison.
Long-Term Earning Potential for Cybersecurity Professionals
Cybersecurity professionals, on the other hand, often experience faster salary growth due to the ever-growing demand for security expertise in an increasingly digital world. Entry-level cybersecurity roles start around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, but as professionals gain more experience and certifications, they can quickly rise to $100,000 or more.
Senior roles like Cybersecurity Managers or CISOs can earn between $150,000 to $250,000, with the highest-paying positions in large tech firms or government organizations offering six-figure salaries.
The cybersecurity field’s rapid growth (projected at 35% growth in the next decade) means that there are abundant opportunities for advancement and higher salaries.
Furthermore, professionals with specialized skills in areas like penetration testing, cloud security, or cyber threat intelligence can expect to earn even more, pushing salaries well beyond $200,000 annually for the most experienced professionals.
Which Career is Better for Long-Term Salary Growth?
While both careers offer competitive salaries, Cybersecurity seems to have the edge when it comes to long-term salary potential. The escalating need for cybersecurity professionals, paired with the complexity of the job and the high stakes of data security, positions cybersecurity as a field with tremendous salary growth potential.
As cybersecurity becomes more critical across all sectors, professionals in the field can look forward to higher pay, job security, and opportunities for advancement.
On the Other Hand…
For those who have a strong interest in project management and team leadership, the Scrum Master path offers a rewarding and sustainable career with solid salary prospects.
While the salary growth might be slower compared to cybersecurity, Scrum Masters who specialize and work in high-demand sectors or become Agile Coaches or Consultants can still achieve impressive earning potential.
Conclusion
The choice between becoming a Scrum Master or a Cybersecurity professional depends on individual career interests and goals. If you’re passionate about leading teams, optimizing project management processes, and fostering agile methodologies, a Scrum Master career can offer long-term job satisfaction and salary potential.
However, if you’re more drawn to solving complex security challenges and thrive in a high-growth field, Cybersecurity may provide more lucrative opportunities, especially over the long run.
FAQ
Is Scrum Master a high-paying job?
Scrum Masters can earn a competitive salary, especially as they gain experience and certifications. While the average salary for a Scrum Master in the U.S. is around $120,000 annually, it can go higher with experience and specialization in industries like IT, software development, and finance.
Cities with high demand for Scrum Masters, such as San Francisco or New York, often offer higher pay to reflect the cost of living and the demand for these professionals. Additionally, Scrum Masters who take on advanced roles like Agile Coaches or Program Managers can see their salaries rise significantly.
How much is the salary of Scrum Master in United States?
The average salary of a Scrum Master in the United States is approximately $120,688 per year, which translates to about $58.02 per hour. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and certifications.
Entry-level Scrum Masters can earn between $58,000 and $65,000 annually.
Mid-level Scrum Masters with 3-5 years of experience typically earn between $90,000 and $115,000 annually.
Senior Scrum Masters with 8+ years of experience can earn $120,000 to $150,000 or more annually.
Cities with a higher demand for Scrum Masters, like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle, tend to offer higher salaries to reflect the cost of living and industry demand.
Why is Scrum Master salary so high?
The high salary of a Scrum Master can be attributed to several factors:
Demand for Agile Methodologies: As more companies adopt Agile frameworks for software development and project management, the need for Scrum Masters who can effectively manage agile teams has increased.
Critical Role in Project Success: Scrum Masters play a vital role in ensuring that teams work efficiently, follow Agile practices, and meet project goals, making them indispensable for the success of many projects.
Specialized Skill Set: The skills required for Scrum Masters, such as project management, team facilitation, and deep knowledge of Scrum principles, are highly specialized. As companies seek to integrate Agile practices, these skills become highly valuable.
Certification Value: Scrum Master certifications, such as Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) or Certified Scrum Professional (CSP), significantly boost a Scrum Master’s earning potential as they demonstrate expertise and commitment to the role.
What exactly does a Scrum Master do?
A Scrum Master is responsible for facilitating the Scrum process within a team. Their primary duties include:
Team Facilitation: Scrum Masters guide and support the team by facilitating daily standups, sprint planning, retrospectives, and sprint reviews.
Removing Obstacles: They help identify and remove any barriers that may impede the team’s progress during a sprint, ensuring that the team can focus on delivering the product.
Ensuring Adherence to Scrum Principles: They ensure the team follows the Scrum framework and practices, fostering collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Coaching and Mentoring: Scrum Masters also mentor the team, helping them improve their processes, embrace agile practices, and work better together.
Stakeholder Communication: They act as a liaison between the Scrum team and stakeholders, ensuring that communication flows smoothly and that expectations are managed.
The Scrum Master’s job is critical in helping teams work in a self-organizing and efficient manner while ensuring they stay focused on delivering value through the Scrum process.
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