Clearance Premium Tracker
How much more do cleared positions pay on the Space Coast? Real salary data from active job postings showing the premium for each security clearance level.
+7.8%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 31 postings
+22.5%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 3 postings
+33.6%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 1 posting
+85.8%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 1 posting
+0.2%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 7 postings
Based on 343 active job postings with disclosed salary ranges.
| Clearance Level | Jobs | Median Range | Avg Midpoint | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Clearance | 82 | $100K – $165K | $131K | Baseline |
| Secret | 218 | $98K – $152K | $127K | -2.8% |
| Top Secret | 31 | $98K – $168K | $141K | +7.8% |
| TS/SCI | 3 | $112K – $197K | $160K | +22.5% |
| secret/sci | 1 | $122K – $227K | $175K | +33.6% |
| sap | 1 | $183K – $302K | $243K | +85.8% |
| top secret/sci | 7 | $87K – $157K | $131K | +0.2% |
Security clearances command higher salaries because the pool of eligible candidates is limited, and the investigation process takes months. Employers pay a premium to attract candidates who already hold active clearances, saving time and reducing project risk.
On the Space Coast, clearance premiums tend to be slightly lower than the DC/NoVA market because of the lower cost of living — but when combined with Florida's 0% state income tax, the take-home pay advantage is significant.