41% of the cleared population calls the Southeast region of the U.S. home. And while an abundance of sweet tea may be a draw to create a life below the Mason-Dixon line, cleared professionals have much more to look forward to than the Southeast’s signature drink. With the region’s warm, humid summers, mild winters, and lower cost of living, the Southeast may provide a work-life balance you’ve been looking for. Read the full ClearanceJobs Compensation Report for Cleared Candidates in the Southeast and learn more below.
Affording Southern Hospitality
The average total compensation in the Southeast stands at $114,919, a notable 7% increase year-over-year. From coastal cities to mountain towns, the Southeast offers a variety of communities for cleared candidates to call home. While housing prices in Virginia are higher, so is compensation with respondents reporting an average of just over $127,000 per year. But states like West Virginia, Alabama and Florida offer lower costs of living while still averaging over six figure salaries.
Higher Clearance Levels Equals Higher Pay
The level of security clearance significantly impacts compensation. In 2023, Southeast professionals with a Lifestyle or Full Scope Polygraph clearance earned an average of $141,589, about $15,000 more than those with just a Top Secret/SCI clearance. This trend emphasizes that trustworthiness is key, and intel clearances lead the way.
The Experience and Education Advantage
After reaching the 10-year career mark, cleared workers can expect an earnings boost of around $30,000. Although the cost of living in the Southeast is generally lower, compensation remains moderate even at senior levels, with senior-level salaries averaging $8,000 to $9,000 more than the Midwest and Southwest.
Additionally, with numerous colleges and universities in the Southeast, cleared employees have ample opportunities to expand their knowledge and increase their earning potential. A master’s degree can mean an average increase of $23,000 over a bachelor’s degree.
National Security, with Southern Charm
50% of respondents in the Southeast hail from Virginia, but Florida and Alabama are emerging stars in the region as both boast a lower cost of living and are expanding their national security role. Defense contractors are abundant in the region, providing numerous opportunities. Systems and software engineers top the earning charts in the region, followed by program and project management roles.
Like their national counterparts, cleared candidates in the Southeast are open to career changes. However, job hoppers earn around $16,000 less than those who stay put. So, compensation remains a key factor in retaining top talent. The Southeast offers abundant opportunities, competitive compensation, and a variety of landscapes to call home, making it a top region for cleared careers.
