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.
+2.4%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 266 postings
+11.2%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 45 postings
+33.8%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 1 posting
+6.6%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 9 postings
+44.5%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 3 postings
Based on 423 active job postings with disclosed salary ranges.
| Clearance Level | Jobs | Median Range | Avg Midpoint | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Clearance | 93 | $100K – $165K | $130K | Baseline |
| Public Trust | 3 | $92K – $167K | $130K | -0.7% |
| Secret | 266 | $98K – $168K | $134K | +2.4% |
| Top Secret | 45 | $100K – $184K | $145K | +11.2% |
| TS/SCI | 3 | $51K – $92K | $113K | -13.6% |
| secret/sci | 1 | $122K – $227K | $175K | +33.8% |
| top secret/sci | 9 | $92K – $195K | $139K | +6.6% |
| sap | 3 | $167K – $250K | $189K | +44.5% |
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.