Highest-Paying ISC2 Certifications in 2026

Explore ISC2 certifications ranked by advertised salary across security practice, cloud security, software security and governance. Compare CISSP, CCSP, CSSLP, CGRC and SSCP, including their experience requirements and exam preparation options.

1$162k median salary

Validates knowledge of securing cloud environments, including architecture, data, platforms, applications, operations and cloud legal and compliance requirements.

734AdvancedHas prerequisites
4$128k median salary

Validates knowledge of authorizing and maintaining secure systems, including scoping, control selection, implementation, assessment and ongoing compliance.

734IntermediateHas prerequisites
5$114k median salary

Validates practical skills in implementing access controls, monitoring risk, responding to incidents and securing networks, systems and applications.

384IntermediateHas prerequisites

Median annual advertised pay in US postings that mention each certification, Sep 2025–Aug 2026. Source