How much money can you make with CompTIA A+?

Getting started in IT often means earning certifications that show your skills to employers. This is especially important for job seekers who don't already have a degree in the IT field, but even degree holders often get certifications to help stack their resume against the competition. The CompTIA A+ certification stands out as one of the most valuable entry-level credentials you can earn. Here's what you can expect to make with this certification and how to grow your earning potential.

Before we start, it is important to remember there are MANY factors in how companies decide salaries:

• Existing experience in the field or role
• Level of education attained (certifications, degrees, etc.)
• Cost of living and regional salary averages
• Demand for the candidate’s skillset in the job market
• Negotiation skills during salary discussions
• Interviewing skills and professionalism

Do not expect to simply add the CompTIA A+ certification to your resume and expect money to roll in! Certifications are one of many tools in your toolbelt, and you need to remember most salary data posted online is for the US average or median salary. That means if you live in a high cost of living area, you may expect a bit more than these numbers - or if you live in a low cost of living area, you will likely see lower numbers (but that may not be a bad thing).

Entry-Level Salaries with CompTIA A+

When you first get your CompTIA A+ certification, you'll likely start in an entry-level IT position. The good news is that even these starting roles typically pay well above the average entry-level salary across all industries. IT support specialists with CompTIA A+ certification earn around $56,500 per year to start. Help desk technicians make about $48,500 annually, while field service technicians can expect roughly $62,000.

These are median averages for the United States, and will vary based on the factors pointed out above. IT Professionals can also expect these salary numbers to go up over time, as they gain more experience and ideally earn more higher level certifications and begin moving into a specialty of some kind.

How Location Affects Your Pay

Where you work plays a big role in how much you'll earn with your CompTIA A+ certification. Cities with higher costs of living and more tech companies typically offer better salaries. For example, IT support specialists in Washington, DC earn about $70,000 annually, while those in Saint Louis might make closer to $49,000. Similar patterns exist across all CompTIA A+ related jobs.

The highest-paying cities for CompTIA A+ certified professionals are New York, San Francisco, and Washington DC. However, don't let lower salaries in other areas discourage you - factor in the cost of living. **A $55,000 salary in Tulsa, Oklahoma might actually provide a better standard of living than $70,000 in New York City. ** Many companies now offer remote work options, which means you could potentially earn a salary based on a higher-paying market while living in an area with lower living costs.

Career Growth and Salary Progression

Your time in the field shapes your earning potential with CompTIA A+. Most IT professionals get steady pay raises as they gain more years of experience. For instance, an IT support specialist might start at $56,500, but after 3-4 years on the job, they could earn over $65,000. Field service technicians often watch their pay grow from about $54,700 to nearly $68,000 over a similar timeframe.

The real value of CompTIA A+ certification comes from using it as a foundation for career growth. Many IT professionals start with A+ certification and then earn extra certifications or focus on specific areas like cybersecurity or network administration. This path often leads to higher salaries. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in IT jobs through 2033, with median salaries well above $100,000 for experienced professionals.

Building Your Earning Potential

While CompTIA A+ certification gives you a solid starting point, several strategies can help you earn more. Ongoing education stands out as one of the most effective approaches. Many professionals pair their A+ certification with other credentials like Network+ or Security+ to command higher salaries. Some employers even pay for extra certifications, making it easier to build your credentials while working.

Creating practical experience through side projects or volunteer work can make you more valuable. Many successful IT professionals started by helping small businesses or non-profits with their tech needs while working their regular jobs. This hands-on practice builds your skills and makes employers notice you more. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities can lead to leadership roles, which usually come with better pay.

The Future Outlook

The future looks bright for CompTIA A+ certified professionals. The move toward digital systems across all industries means qualified IT professionals stay in high demand. Many companies now put skills and certifications ahead of traditional degrees, making CompTIA A+ an increasingly valuable credential. Remote work has opened up new opportunities, letting certified professionals work for companies anywhere in the world.

The tech industry keeps changing, creating more room for growth and higher earnings. While CompTIA A+ certification might start you at $48,000-$93,000 depending on your role, your earning potential can reach much higher as you gain experience and new skills. Think of your A+ certification as a starting point rather than a final stop. Stay up to date with technology trends, keep learning new skills, and take on new challenges. This approach will help you reach your highest earning potential throughout your IT career.