Highest Paying States for CompTIA Network+ in 2026
The CompTIA Network+ certification is a globally recognized credential that validates the essential knowledge needed to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot any wired and wireless devices. As of 2026, the average salary for professionals holding this certification across 51 states is $70,612, with a national median of $73,340. This article explores the highest and lowest paying states for CompTIA Network+ professionals and factors influencing these salary variations.
Top 5 Highest Paying States
Rhode Island leads with an impressive annual salary of $138,570, likely due to its high cost of living and concentrated demand in tech hubs. Alaska follows with $101,740 per year, where the higher wages may compensate for the remote location and living costs. Maryland's professionals earn $95,110, benefiting from proximity to federal government contracts and advanced tech sectors. Connecticut and Washington, offering $92,850 and $91,270 respectively, also show strong demand in tech industries influenced by local economic conditions.
5 Lowest Paying States
West Virginia, the lowest payer, offers $49,710 annually, reflecting its lower cost of living and smaller tech industry. South Dakota and Mississippi follow with $51,920 and $54,120 respectively, where the tech market is less developed. Louisiana and Missouri round out the list with $55,170 and $56,600, where the lower salaries align with the regional economic strategies and living costs.
What Affects CompTIA Network+ Salary?
Several factors affect the salaries of CompTIA Network+ certified professionals. Experience levels play a crucial role; more seasoned professionals tend to earn higher wages. The work setting and geographical location also significantly influence earnings. Specializations in certain network technologies can lead to salary increases, as can the availability of overtime work.
Salary Comparison Table
The following table provides a detailed look at the CompTIA Network+ salary landscape across the United States:
| State | Median Annual Salary | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $138,570 | $66.62 |
| Alaska | $101,740 | $48.91 |
| Maryland | $95,110 | $45.73 |
| Connecticut | $92,850 | $44.64 |
| Washington | $91,270 | $43.88 |
| District of Columbia | $88,640 | $42.61 |
| New Jersey | $82,000 | $39.42 |
| Massachusetts | $81,240 | $39.06 |
| Colorado | $80,720 | $38.81 |
| New York | $79,860 | $38.39 |
| North Carolina | $77,540 | $37.28 |
| California | $76,120 | $36.60 |
| Utah | $75,010 | $36.06 |
| Pennsylvania | $74,950 | $36.03 |
| Virginia | $74,680 | $35.90 |
| Georgia | $74,150 | $35.65 |
| Wisconsin | $73,900 | $35.53 |
| Minnesota | $73,070 | $35.13 |
| Illinois | $70,470 | $33.88 |
| Florida | $68,370 | $32.87 |
| Nevada | $68,350 | $32.86 |
| New Hampshire | $68,010 | $32.70 |
| Vermont | $67,970 | $32.68 |
| Oklahoma | $67,570 | $32.49 |
| Hawaii | $67,390 | $32.40 |
| Maine | $66,600 | $32.02 |
| North Dakota | $65,970 | $31.72 |
| Alabama | $65,320 | $31.40 |
| Oregon | $65,130 | $31.31 |
| Ohio | $65,040 | $31.27 |
| Indiana | $64,340 | $30.93 |
| New Mexico | $64,210 | $30.87 |
| Texas | $63,740 | $30.65 |
| Iowa | $63,730 | $30.64 |
| Michigan | $63,550 | $30.55 |
| Kentucky | $63,540 | $30.55 |
| Nebraska | $63,490 | $30.52 |
| Delaware | $63,240 | $30.40 |
| South Carolina | $62,950 | $30.26 |
| Idaho | $62,710 | $30.15 |
| Arizona | $62,330 | $29.97 |
| Kansas | $61,260 | $29.45 |
| Tennessee | $60,920 | $29.29 |
| Wyoming | $60,050 | $28.87 |
| Montana | $59,240 | $28.48 |
| Arkansas | $56,760 | $27.29 |
| Missouri | $56,600 | $27.21 |
| Louisiana | $55,170 | $26.52 |
| Mississippi | $54,120 | $26.02 |
| South Dakota | $51,920 | $24.96 |
| West Virginia | $49,710 | $23.90 |
Regional Patterns
Examining the regional salary distributions, the Northeast and West Coast show higher average salaries, influenced by the thriving tech industries and higher living costs. In contrast, the South and Midwest regions generally offer lower salaries, reflecting the lower cost of living and different industrial focuses.
Maximizing Your Earning Potential
To maximize earning potential, CompTIA Network+ professionals should consider gaining experience in high-demand specialties and seek positions in higher-paying states. Continual education and certifications can also lead to advancements and higher salary opportunities.
Bottom Line
The salary for CompTIA Network+ certified professionals varies widely across the United States. Understanding regional differences and factors affecting pay can help professionals strategically advance their careers.
Related Credentials
CredentialGuide Editorial Team
Data-driven career guidance for vocational professionals.
Ready to Get Started?
Talk to a career counselor who can help you choose the right credential and training program for your goals.
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.