34 Honest Chief Information Officer Salaries

Today’s chief information officer (CIO) isn't just the "top dog" in the IT department. They are goal-oriented leaders responsible for ensuring the company's overall goals are part of the IT roadmap. 

As the CIO's influence continues to grow, so does interest in how much these top executives actually earn. Chief information officers' salaries can vary widely depending on factors like company size, industry, and geographic location, but the demand for experienced, forward-thinking CIOs has never been higher. That’s why salary transparency matters.

Whether you're exploring a move into the C-suite, negotiating your next role, or simply curious about what CIOs really make across the U.S., this article will break it down. From national averages to city-by-city data and key factors that affect compensation, we’ll help you understand what drives CIO salaries and how to increase your own earning potential.

What is a Chief Information Officer?

The chief information officer (CIO) is the highest-ranking IT leader in a company, responsible for managing technology and aligning it with the organization’s broader goals. While the role originally focused on back-end systems and support, modern CIOs are often deeply involved in strategy, transformation, and even revenue growth.

At a high level, the CIO oversees the planning, implementation, and management of all information technology systems and infrastructure. But this isn’t a behind-the-scenes position anymore. Today, CIOs are expected to be boardroom voices who guide everything from data governance to cloud modernization to AI adoption.

To succeed, a CIO needs both technical knowledge and business acumen. Familiarity with platforms like SAP, Salesforce, AWS, and Power BI is common, but just as important are leadership, communication, and risk management skills. CIOs also work closely with complex frameworks like TOGAF, COBIT, and NIST to ensure IT governance and compliance.

In smaller companies, the CIO might also assume the responsibilities of a CISO (chief information security officer) or CTO (chief technology officer). Other overlapping titles include VP of IT, Head of IT, or Chief Digital Officer, roles that may vary by company size and industry.

34 Honest Salaries for Chief Information Officers

CIOs hold one of the most complex and high-impact roles in any organization, and their compensation reflects that. But how much do they actually make? Nationally, CIOs earn an average of $159,468 per year, but location, size of the company, industry, and experience can all impact pay. 

To give a clear picture, we compiled real-world salary data from job boards, recruiter reports, and employer salary disclosures from around the U.S. The table below includes 34 cities with a range of compensation figures, including low-end, average, and high-end salaries.

So, what do these numbers tell us? Unsurprisingly, major tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle top the charts, with average CIO pay exceeding $275,000, and high-end salaries reaching well into the $400K range. These cities attract larger enterprises and cutting-edge tech companies, both willing to pay top dollar for experienced leadership.

Mid-tier cities like Austin, Denver, and Minneapolis also offer strong earning potential, especially for CIOs leading fast-growing companies or managing digital transformation efforts. Even in smaller markets such as Boise, Omaha, and St. Louis, CIOs earn six-figure salaries, reflecting the growing recognition that tech strategy is vital in every industry, not just Silicon Valley.

One of the more interesting takeaways is the range within each location. In many cities, the difference between a low-end and high-end salary can exceed $100,000. That gap often comes down to company size, industry, and the CIO’s specific responsibilities. A CIO with boardroom visibility or who leads global initiatives, for example, will often land on the higher end of the pay scale, regardless of city.

Ultimately, location still matters, but the right mix of experience, skills, and influence can unlock top-tier compensation almost anywhere.

Salary Considerations for Chief Information Officers (CIOs)

While location plays a big role in determining compensation, it’s far from the only factor. Chief information officer salaries are heavily influenced by several other factors, including: 

Company Size 

CIOs at large enterprises, especially those publicly traded or operating internationally, tend to earn significantly more. These roles often come with bigger budgets, broader responsibilities, and more pressure to deliver measurable impact through technology. A CIO managing IT for a local firm may top out around $200K, while one leading global transformation at a Fortune 500 company could easily exceed $400K.

Board-Level Influence

CIOs who regularly present to the board or influence high-level business decisions are seen as strategic assets and tend to make more. This is especially true for CIOs who help shape mergers and acquisitions, digital transformation initiatives, or major cybersecurity programs.

Specialties

CIOs with deep experience in cloud modernization, AI deployment, or security leadership are in high demand, and their compensation reflects this. Employers are willing to pay more for leaders who can guide the organization through complex, high-stakes transitions.

Education and Certifications

IT certifications like CISM, CISSP, or CGEIT signal executive-level expertise in security and governance, while an Executive MBA or similar leadership training shows a CIO is ready for cross-functional, C-suite collaboration.

Track Record

Tenure and reputation play an important role. CIOs who’ve built a track record of delivering results like cutting costs, driving innovation, or scaling tech infrastructure are often rewarded with higher base salaries, larger bonuses, and long-term incentives.

How Experience Impacts Salary

A CIO’s earning potential rises significantly with experience, but it’s not just about how many years you’ve been in the field. It’s about what kind of leadership roles you’ve held, the scope of your impact, and how much responsibility you’ve managed.

First-time CIOs or VP-level IT leaders (10–15 years of experience)

Those stepping into a CIO role for the first time typically have a solid background in IT leadership, often having served as a VP of IT or Director of Technology. They’re likely to lead tech for smaller or mid-sized organizations, where budgets and teams are more limited. Salaries in this tier typically fall between $170,000 and $210,000, depending on the industry and location.

Mid-level CIOs (15–20 years of experience)

With more time in leadership, CIOs often oversee large departments and handle significant IT budgets. They’re embedded in senior leadership, regularly contribute to company-wide strategy, and may have led major system overhauls. Compensation generally ranges from $210,000 to $270,000, with room to grow based on board exposure and specialization.

Enterprise CIOs (20+ years of experience)

At the top end of the scale, enterprise CIOs are true business executives. They lead global IT strategy, report directly to the CEO, and often play a central role in mergers, acquisitions, digital reinvention, or operational resilience. These are the CIOs at large corporations or high-growth companies, and their compensation can easily exceed $400,000, especially when stock options, bonuses, or long-term incentives are included.

Must-Know Tools for Chief Information Officers

Today’s CIOs oversee increasingly complex and interconnected systems, which means having (and knowing how to use) the right tools and essentials. They must understand both technical tools that power operations and organizational tools that support communication and strategic planning, including: 

ERP and CRM Platforms

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) systems are the power behind most companies' operations. CIOs often manage the selection, integration, and performance of tools like SAP, Oracle, and Salesforce to ensure business processes run smoothly across departments.

Data and Analytics

From board reports to operational dashboards, CIOs must enable data-driven decision-making at every level. Tools like Power BI, Tableau, and enterprise data lakes help transform raw data into actionable insights. Many CIOs also manage the underlying infrastructure that makes advanced analytics, forecasting, and even machine learning possible.

Cloud and Security Oversight

As organizations shift to the cloud, CIOs are expected to understand and be able to use platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. They also oversee security tools such as SIEM platforms (Security Information and Event Management) to detect threats and monitor compliance in real time.

IT Governance and Service Management

Managing large-scale IT environments requires structure and accountability. CIOs often implement platforms like ServiceNow to handle service requests, track changes, and ensure compliance with frameworks such as ITIL. Governance tools help CIOs standardize practices, reduce risk, and deliver consistent IT services.

Strategic and Compliance Frameworks

Effective CIOs use strategic frameworks to connect IT with broader business goals. Familiarity with TOGAF, COBIT, NIST, and even ESG reporting tools helps CIOs ensure their work supports long-term sustainability, compliance, and risk management priorities.

Must-Have Certifications for Chief Information Officers

While experience and results tend to drive most CIO hiring decisions, education can still make a noticeable difference, especially for those seeking to increase their compensation or step into higher-level roles. Must have certs for CIO include: 

CGEIT: Governance of Enterprise IT

The Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT) credential is designed for senior IT leaders who align technology with business objectives. It’s especially valuable for CIOs overseeing compliance, policy enforcement, and enterprise risk.

CISM: Information Security Leadership

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification signals executive-level understanding of cybersecurity governance. It’s particularly useful for CIOs managing risk programs or working closely with CISOs and compliance teams.

PMP or PgMP: Project and Program Management

While CIOs often delegate day-to-day project execution, many still lead enterprise initiatives. Certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) or Program Management Professional (PgMP) show you have what it takes to oversee large-scale IT projects. 

ITIL Managing Professional or Master

The ITIL framework remains a gold standard in service management. CIOs with ITIL Managing Professional or Master-level certifications can more effectively implement processes that improve service delivery, track KPIs, and align IT with business needs.

Executive MBA or Leadership Coursework

Although not a certification in the traditional sense, an Executive MBA or advanced coursework in IT leadership or business strategy is increasingly common among high-level CIOs. These programs help bridge the gap between technology and boardroom conversations. 

How to Increase Your Salary as a Chief Information Officer

For CIOs aiming to boost their compensation, it’s not just about climbing the ladder—it’s about where you climb, how visibly you lead, and what value you bring to the table. Strategic career moves and targeted skill development can open the door to significantly higher pay.

Lead Major Transformation Projects

Taking charge of high-impact initiatives (like digital transformation, cloud migrations, or M&A integrations) highlights your ability to lead and direct. CIOs who deliver results at scale often earn a higher salary and see bigger bonuses. 

Strengthen Security and Resilience Expertise

Cybersecurity remains a top concern for executive teams. CIOs with proven experience in risk management, regulatory compliance, and business continuity planning are in high demand. Certifications like CISM or CISSP can establish your credibility and increase your earning power.

Gain Board-Level Influence

The more connected you are to business strategy, the more valuable you become. CIOs who advise the board or report directly to the CEO tend to be better paid, thanks to their influence on long-term direction and decision-making.

Embrace Emerging Technologies

Staying ahead of IT trends like AI, blockchain, and ESG reporting can help you position yourself as a forward-thinking leader. Innovation-focused CIOs are often rewarded for helping their companies stay competitive.

Move Into High-Paying Industries

Industries like tech, finance, and healthcare tend to pay CIOs more due to complexity, compliance demands, and reliance on digital systems. Making a strategic move into a different industry can lead to a substantial pay jump.

Conclusion

Chief information officers are no longer just tech leaders—they’re business leaders. As companies rely more heavily on technology, the value of the CIO continues to rise, and so does the compensation. From six-figure starting packages to $400K+ executive roles, the path to higher earnings is shaped by your ability to lead, adapt, and deliver results.

Staying current with emerging technologies, earning strategic certifications, and stepping into visible, high-impact roles can help you take your career and salary to the next level. If you're ready to build the leadership skills and technical expertise needed to get there, CBT Nuggets offers training designed for IT pros with big goals.