Cybersecurity Salary 2026: Why AI Security Skills Pay 15–25% More

The global cybersecurity workforce gap hit 4.8 million in 2025. AI security skills now command a 15–25% pay premium. US median salary $124,910. Real ISC2 + BLS data, salary by role, which certifications actually pay back, and 3 situations where cybersecurity is not the right move.