The latest ClearanceJobs 2025 Security Clearance Compensation Report reveals that salaries for security-cleared professionals continue to climb, reaching an all-time high of $119,131—a nearly 4% increase from the previous year. Despite economic uncertainty and evolving federal workforce dynamics, the demand for cleared talent remains strong, with 68% of professionals receiving salary increases. Notably, nearly one in seven saw pay increases of 10% or more.
Clearance Equals Career Currency
“For candidates, the message is clear: your clearance is your currency, and it’s a career advantage to keep in an uncertain federal job market,” said Alex Schildt, President of ClearanceJobs. “But pay isn’t the only factor—career growth, flexibility, and stability also matter. Employers who recognize this and offer competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and work-life balance will be the ones who win the battle for top talent.”
The Evolving Cleared Workforce
Rising competition for cleared professionals has resulted in increased salaries across clearance levels, job roles, and geographic locations. Professionals with Lifestyle or Full Scope Polygraphs earn an average salary of $141,299—nearly $30,000 more than those without a polygraph.
Virginia remains the highest-paying state for security-cleared jobs, with an average salary of $131,612, followed closely by Maryland ($130,878) and Colorado ($126,936). The Intelligence Community continues to offer the highest salaries, with professionals at agencies like the CIA averaging $159,350 annually.
While job stability remains a priority, 83% of security-cleared professionals are at least somewhat likely to change jobs within the next year. Compensation remains the top factor in job satisfaction, with 67% of respondents citing higher pay as their primary motivator for increased workplace happiness.
The Future of Cleared Careers
The cleared workforce is undergoing a shift. While national security jobs offer strong compensation and stability, factors such as federal hiring freezes and shifting agency priorities may reshape the job market in the coming years. Employers seeking to remain competitive must invest in salaries, benefits, and retention strategies to keep top talent engaged.
“Security-cleared professionals are making strategic career moves, and compensation remains their biggest bargaining chip,” said Art Zeile, CEO of DHI Group, Inc. “Employers who understand market dynamics, offer competitive compensation, and foster career advancement opportunities will emerge as leaders in securing top talent in the national security sector.”
The 2025 Security Clearance Compensation Report provides an in-depth look at salary trends based on clearance level, polygraph status, location, occupation, and education level. To explore the full report, click here.
