Holding a security clearance doesn’t just make you a highly sought-after candidate—it also equals higher pay. But just like any industry, salaries vary by location. ClearanceJobs’ has released our geo reports, breaking down the top states for cleared compensation in 2025. Download the reports here and check out the highlights below.
Georgia
In Georgia, cleared professionals are earning an average of $101,840 in 2025. Atlanta continues to be a hub for aerospace, cybersecurity, and defense contractors, creating a steady demand for cleared talent. The state’s strong military presence and growing tech sector make it a great option for those looking to balance career growth with a lower cost of living compared to other major metros.
North Carolina
In North Carolina, cleared professionals are bringing in an average of $102,876. The state’s strong military presence—with installations like Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune—paired with tech hubs like Raleigh and Charlotte, creates a diverse range of opportunities. While salaries trend slightly below the national average, the cost of living remains reasonable. For cleared candidates, North Carolina offers a balance of thriving job markets, research innovation, and an affordable lifestyle.
Texas
Cleared professionals in Texas are earning an average of $110,181. With major hubs like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, Texas boasts one of the fastest-growing cleared workforces in the country. The Lone Star State combines a moderate cost of living with strong opportunities in cybersecurity, aerospace, and systems engineering. Its expanding defense economy—and no state income tax—continues to make Texas a magnet for top cleared talent.
Alabama
In Alabama, cleared professionals are earning an average of $110,361. Huntsville, known as “Rocket City,” anchors the state’s aerospace and defense economy, fueled by Redstone Arsenal and major employers like Boeing, Leidos, SAIC and Northrop Grumman. With one of the lowest costs of living among cleared hubs, salaries in Alabama stretch even further. For cleared professionals in aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and intelligence, Alabama offers strong salaries and a thriving job market.
Arizona
Cleared professionals in Arizona are earning an average of $111,253. The state’s aerospace and defense sectors are booming, with major employers like Raytheon, General Dynamics, and Honeywell Aerospace leading the charge. Tucson stands out as a hub for cleared opportunities, especially in engineering and IT security. While housing prices in some metro areas are rising, Arizona generally offers a lower cost of living than coastal states, making it a competitive choice for cleared talent.
Florida
Cleared professionals in Florida are earning an average of $112,690. With more than 20 military installations and a booming aerospace and defense sector, the Sunshine State offers strong job opportunities across aerospace, space systems, IT security, and intelligence. Florida’s lack of state income tax boosts take-home pay, making it an even more attractive option for cleared candidates who want career growth and a desirable lifestyle.
California
Cleared professionals in California are earning an average of $119,775. While the Golden State comes with high living costs, it also offers some of the most competitive cleared salaries in the country. Major hubs like El Segundo, Redondo Beach, and San Diego are home to aerospace and high-tech defense giants like Boeing, Leidos, and Raytheon. For cleared professionals in aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and systems development, California remains a powerhouse of innovation—and opportunity.
Colorado
Cleared professionals in Colorado are earning an average of $126,936, making it one of the top-paying states for cleared talent. Known for its strong defense and aerospace presence, Colorado specializes in satellite technology, cybersecurity, and military operations. While housing costs—especially around Denver—can be high, the state’s booming defense economy, natural beauty, and excellent work-life balance make it a top destination for cleared professionals.
D.C.
Okay – we know Washington, D.C. isn’t a state, but the capital deserves its own entry as cleared professionals are earning an average of $127,875. As the heart of the national security world, D.C. offers unparalleled proximity to federal agencies, intelligence hubs, and policy-making institutions. While housing costs are among the highest in the nation, salaries are strong—especially for those in intelligence, cybersecurity, and law enforcement roles. For cleared candidates, D.C. remains a strategic and prestigious place to build a career.
Maryland
Cleared professionals in Maryland are earning an average of $130,878. Home to Fort Meade, the NSA, and the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Maryland stands at the epicenter of the nation’s intelligence and cybersecurity operations. Despite a relatively high cost of living, salaries for cleared candidates—especially in technical and intelligence fields—continue to climb, making Maryland one of the top states for cleared compensation.
Virginia
And finally, year-over-year, Virginia leads the pack as the dominant state for cleared pay, with Virginians earning an average of $131,612. With major hubs like the Pentagon, Langley, and NGA headquarters, Virginia remains the undisputed leader for cleared jobs. High-paying intelligence and cybersecurity roles, combined with proximity to D.C., give cleared candidates unmatched opportunities. While housing costs are higher in Northern Virginia, the sheer volume of defense contractors and federal agencies makes it the top state for cleared compensation.
No matter where your cleared career takes you, opportunities are abundant. For deeper insights into the highest-paying states, download the reports here. To keep up to date on the latest security and defense news, and to join the leading online community for cleared professionals, visit us over at clearancejobs.
