If you’re exploring a career in IT, understanding CompTIA Linux+ Salary is essential. Linux+ certification is widely recognized for validating your skills in managing Linux systems, a crucial asset in today’s tech-driven world.
Achieving this certification requires proper preparation and passing the exam, which can be challenging without the right resources. That’s where high-quality study materials come in.
Prepsaret offers comprehensive Linux+ certification study guides and practice exams designed to help you pass the CompTIA Linux+ exam on your first attempt. Earning this certification can significantly impact your career, salary potential, and job opportunities.
CompTIA Linux+ Salary Overview
CompTIA Linux+ certified professionals generally enjoy competitive salaries in the IT industry, reflecting the value employers place on Linux skills.
The average Linux+ Salary in the United States is approximately $89,000 per year. However, actual earnings vary depending on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities. Surveys show ranges from $79,000 to $105,000, highlighting differences in market conditions and sources.
Linux Administrator Salary
A common career path for Linux+ certified professionals is as a Linux administrator. Linux administrator salary can vary significantly:
- Entry-level administrators: Around $48,000 annually.
- Mid-level administrators: Typically between $80,000 and $120,000.
- Senior-level roles: Senior Linux Administrators, Systems Engineers, or Network Administrators can earn upwards of $160,000 per year.
So, how much can you earn with CompTIA Linux+? Starting salaries are usually in the mid-to-high five figures, but experienced professionals in senior roles can surpass six figures, especially when combining Linux+ certification with other IT skills.
Earning a Linux+ certification not only validates your technical skills but also positions you for career advancement, higher-paying roles, and steady salary growth in the IT field.
CompTIA Linux+ Salary by Experience Level
CompTIA Linux+ salary by experience level varies depending on your career stage, from entry-level to senior positions. Here’s what you can expect:
| Experience Level | Typical Salary Range (USD) | Notes |
| Entry-Level | $47,000 – $65,000 | Junior admin, entry Linux roles |
| Mid-Level | $80,000 – $120,000 | Systems admin, Linux engineer |
| Senior-Level | $120,000 – $167,000+ | Senior Linux admin, Systems Engineer |
Salary growth with Linux certifications is significant. Certified professionals often see substantial increases as they advance, making Linux+ a strong career booster for IT professionals pursuing Linux system administration.
CompTIA Linux+ Salary vs Other IT Certifications
While Linux+ is highly valuable, certifications like Network+ and Security+ are also recognized in IT, though they may lead to different salary ranges and career paths.
- CompTIA Security+ salary: On average, Security+ certified professionals earn between $70,000 and $115,000 annually, depending on experience and job role.
- CompTIA Network+ salary: Network+ certification holders typically earn $65,000 to $110,000 per year.
- CompTIA Linux+ salary vs RHCSA: Linux+ certification often offers comparable or higher pay than the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) for many entry to mid-level positions.
CompTIA Linux+ certification ROI is strong because the cost of the exam is relatively low compared to the potential salary boost. IT professionals often recover the exam cost within the first year of obtaining the certification.
| Certification | Average Salary Range (USD) | Notes |
| CompTIA Linux+ | $48,000 – $130,000+ | Median about $89,000. Strong sysadmin focus |
| CompTIA Security+ | $70,000 – $110,000+ | Targeted at cybersecurity roles |
| CompTIA Network+ | $50,000 – $80,000 | Focus on networking support & admin roles |
| Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) | $80,000 – $110,000+ | Often commands higher salaries due to Red Hat market dominance |
| Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) | $90,000 – $130,000+ | Advanced Red Hat certification with premium salary potential |
When conducting an IT certifications salary comparison, Linux+ stands out for professionals focusing on Linux administration, systems management, and IT infrastructure roles.
It combines solid starting salaries, strong growth potential, and a high ROI, making it one of the best certifications for Linux professionals.
CompTIA Linux+ Salary: Per Hour and Per Month
CompTIA Linux+ salary per month ranges between $6,800 and $7,400, based on an average annual salary of approximately $82,000 to $89,000 in the U.S.
CompTIA Linux+ salary per hour generally falls between $35 and $43 per hour, assuming a standard 40-hour workweek.
Factors that influence hourly and monthly pay include:
- Location: Tech hubs such as California and New York offer higher salaries.
- Industry demand: Specialized industries may provide premium compensation.
- Experience level: More experience often leads to higher pay.
- Additional certifications: Complementary IT certifications can further boost income.
Best IT Certifications for Linux Professionals
Identifying the best IT certifications for Linux professionals requires understanding how different credentials complement Linux+ certification and enhance earning potential.
| Certification | Exam Cost (USD) | Average Salary Range (USD) | Notes |
| CompTIA Linux+ | $380-$420 | $48,000 – $130,000+ | Strong foundational Linux skills |
| Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) | $400-$500 | $80,000 – $110,000+ | Enterprise Linux focus, often higher salaries |
| CompTIA Security+ | $370-$400 | $70,000 – $115,000+ | Security-focused certification |
| CompTIA Network+ | $338-$348 | $65,000 – $110,000 | Networking fundamentals |
The CompTIA Linux+ certification cost versus salary benefit analysis shows excellent return on investment. The CompTIA Linux+ exam cost of approximately $350 pays for itself within the first few months of employment at higher salary levels.
Highest paying jobs with Linux+ certification include:
- Senior Linux Administrator
- Systems Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
Alongside Linux+, complementary certifications like RHCSA, Security+, and Network+ are recommended to expand IT knowledge, boost career opportunities, and maximize salary potential.
CompTIA Linux+ Career Path and Job Opportunities
CompTIA Linux+ Career Path offers a clear trajectory for IT professionals seeking roles in Linux and systems administration. Starting with foundational positions, professionals can advance into more specialized and senior roles as they gain experience and additional certifications.
CompTIA Linux+ Jobs cover a variety of roles across industries, including:
- Junior Linux Administrator
- Systems Administrator
- Linux Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
Many organizations that rely on Linux-based infrastructure—such as tech companies, financial institutions, government agencies, and cloud service providers—actively hire Linux+ certified professionals.
CompTIA Linux+ Jobs often provide strong career growth, with opportunities to move into senior-level positions, management roles, or specialized domains like cloud and cybersecurity, demonstrating that the certification is a valuable investment for long-term career advancement.
Find Out: How to prepare for CompTIA Linux+
CompTIA Linux+ Salary Insights from Reddit and Community
CompTIA Linux+ salary reddit threads and IT forum discussions reveal real-world insights from professionals currently working in Linux roles.
From community discussions:
- Entry-level Linux+ certified professionals report starting salaries around $48,000 to $50,000.
- Mid-level roles see salaries generally between $80,000 and $100,000, depending on location and experience.
- Senior positions can reach $130,000 or higher, particularly in tech hubs like California or New York.
Pros of pursuing Linux+ for salary purposes:
- Provides foundational Linux skills that are highly marketable.
- Opens doors to multiple career paths and higher-paying roles.
- Enhances credibility and employability in Linux-focused positions.
Cons reported by the community:
- Salaries vary widely by location and industry.
- Some specialized roles may require additional certifications (e.g., RHCSA, cloud or security credentials) for top-tier salaries.
Community opinions consistently highlight that Linux+ certification is worth pursuing for those aiming to enter Linux administration or systems roles, especially when paired with real-world experience and complementary certifications.
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CompTIA Linux+ Salary: FAQs
Which CompTIA Makes the Most Money?
Among CompTIA certifications, those with Security+ and advanced certifications like CySA+ or PenTest+ tend to earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000, while Linux+ also commands competitive pay in system administration roles.
Is CompTIA Linux+ Difficult?
CompTIA Linux+ is moderately challenging, requiring a solid understanding of Linux system administration, command-line skills, and troubleshooting. It is accessible for individuals with some Linux experience or IT background willing to study.
What Jobs Can I Get with CompTIA Linux+?
Linux+ opens doors to roles like Linux Administrator, Systems Administrator, Linux Engineer, DevOps Engineer, and Cloud Engineer, across industries relying on Linux infrastructure, including tech, finance, and government.
Is Linux+ Entry Level?
Linux+ is considered a mid-level certification, ideal for candidates with some basic Linux or IT experience aiming to advance into professional Linux administration and engineering roles.
Is Linux a High Paying Job?
Yes, Linux roles typically offer high pay, especially as experience grows, with senior Linux-related positions and engineering roles commanding six-figure salaries in many regions.
Conclusion: Is CompTIA Linux+ Worth the Investment?
Yes, CompTIA Linux+ is worth the investment. Certified professionals enjoy competitive salaries, strong career growth, and access to entry-level and senior Linux jobs. The certification provides excellent ROI, especially when paired with additional skills or complementary certifications.
If you’re serious about maximizing your career potential and salary, start preparing for the exam now.
Use Prepsaret study materials to practice, master key concepts, and pass the CompTIA Linux+ exam on your first attempt, setting yourself up for success in IT.