If you're asking what IT jobs pay in 2026, the short answer is: a lot more than the average US job. The median wage for computer and IT occupations was $109,470 in May 2025, more than double the $50,980 median for all occupations. Pay still varies a lot by role, so here is the breakdown.
How much do IT jobs pay in the US?
Here are the national median annual salaries from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025). A median means half of workers earn more and half earn less.
- Help desk and computer user support specialist: $61,860
- Information security analyst: $129,180
- Software developer: $135,980
Help Desk and IT Support Salary
Computer user support specialists earn a national median of $61,860 per year. It's the most common way into IT. Many roles don't require a degree, and certifications like CompTIA A+ can help. Support is also where many people start before moving into networking, cloud or security, which pay much more.
Pay varies by city, and BLS wage data doesn't include benefits, so compare full offers rather than salary alone.
Cybersecurity Analyst Salary
Information security analysts earned a median of $129,180 in May 2025, with 21% job growth projected from 2025 to 2035. That makes security one of the fastest-growing and best-paid areas of IT. Certifications such as Security+ and CISSP are common requirements.
Software Developer Salary
Software developers had a median annual wage of $135,980 in May 2025, with 10% projected growth. Pay depends heavily on your language, specialty and employer. Remote roles often pay based on company size rather than your location.
What affects your IT salary?
- Specialty: security, cloud and software development pay more than general support.
- Certifications: AWS, CCNA, Security+ and CISSP can move you into higher pay bands.
- Location: large tech metros pay more, though the cost of living is higher.
- Experience: moving from help desk to a specialist role is the biggest raise most people get.
- Company size: larger employers usually pay more and offer better benefits.
How to earn more in IT
- Start in support, then add a certification in the area you want to move into.
- Build a small portfolio or home lab to show your skills.
- Apply for roles one step above your current title.
- Negotiate using market data like the figures above.
Find your next IT job on Elite Jobs Hub
Knowing what a role pays is the first step. Browse the latest IT openings on Elite Jobs Hub and apply to roles that match your skills and salary goals.
Salary data is from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Figures are national medians and will differ by location and employer.