Security Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Houston, Texas$129,600 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Security Engineer Jobs in Houston

Looking for a Security Engineer job in Houston? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Security Engineer in Houston, TX.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Houston has a strong job market for Security Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Security Engineer Salary in Houston

Entry Level
$81,600
Median
$129,600
Senior Level
$187,680

Security Engineer salaries in Houston are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Houston is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Application SecurityPenetration TestingSecurity ArchitectureSAST/DASTIncident Response

Security Engineer Job Market in Houston

Houston, TX is a major regional employment hub for Security Engineer professionals. With a population of 2.3 million, the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro area offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. The city's strong Energy and Healthcare sectors create robust demand for Security Engineer talent. The market for Security Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Security Engineers in Houston

HP IncBMC SoftwareAlert LogicCyberCodersDigital Turbine

Major employers hiring Security Engineers in Houston include HP Inc, BMC Software, Alert Logic, CyberCoders, and Digital Turbine. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Security Engineers in Houston

Living in Houston as a Security Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,500/month (17% below the national average). At median Security Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 14% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,100/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

96
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.5K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Security Engineer in Houston

Houston Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Security Engineers in Houston: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Security Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Texas

Texas has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Security Engineer earning $129,600 would save approximately $6,480 annually. This makes Houston attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Security Engineers

The job outlook for Security Engineers in Houston is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Houston's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Application Security, Penetration Testing, Security Architecture, SAST/DAST.

Relocating to Houston

Texas has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York. Be prepared for hot summers. Air conditioning is essential, and outdoor activities shift to mornings and evenings during summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Security Engineer salary in Houston, TX?

The average Security Engineer salary in Houston, TX is $129,600 per year. Entry-level Security Engineers typically start around $81,600, while experienced professionals can earn $187,680 or more. The national average for Security Engineer roles is $135,000.

How many Security Engineer jobs are available in Houston?

Houston has a strong job market with regular openings for Security Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Security Engineers include HP Inc, BMC Software, Alert Logic, CyberCoders. The Energy and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Houston a good city for Security Engineers?

Houston is an very good choice for Security Engineers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's energy industry creates strong demand for technology & software professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Security Engineers in Houston?

Top skills for Security Engineers in Houston include Application Security, Penetration Testing, Security Architecture, SAST/DAST, Incident Response. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Security Engineers in Houston?

Houston's cost of living is near the national average (96% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,500/month. Purchasing power in Houston is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Security Engineers in Houston?

Houston Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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