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.
+8.2%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 1 posting
+8.8%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 321 postings
+23.1%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 62 postings
+63.7%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 1 posting
+35.3%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 4 postings
+13.3%
salary premium vs. uncleared
Based on 11 postings
Based on 508 active job postings with disclosed salary ranges.
| Clearance Level | Jobs | Median Range | Avg Midpoint | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Clearance | 108 | $90K – $157K | $120K | Baseline |
| Public Trust | 1 | $113K – $146K | $129K | +8.2% |
| Secret | 321 | $98K – $152K | $130K | +8.8% |
| Top Secret | 62 | $117K – $184K | $147K | +23.1% |
| TS/SCI | 1 | $126K – $266K | $196K | +63.7% |
| sap | 4 | $128K – $209K | $162K | +35.3% |
| top secret/sci | 11 | $92K – $180K | $135K | +13.3% |
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.