The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is one of the largest federal agencies in the United States. It protects the nation from terrorism, secures borders, enforces immigration laws, and responds to emergencies.
Homeland Security agents work in various roles, including investigations, border enforcement, cybercrime defense, and transportation security. In 2025, salaries for these positions are determined by federal pay scales, location-based adjustments, and years of experience.
This article explains how Homeland Security agent salaries are calculated, breaks down earnings by state and city, shows how experience impacts pay, and compares DHS salaries to other law enforcement careers.
How Homeland Security Agent Pay is Determined
DHS agents are typically paid under either the General Schedule (GS) or Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) pay scale. These pay systems reward both experience (step increases) and position level (grade).
1. Base Pay
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Determined by grade (GS-5 to GS-15 for most positions) and step (1 to 10).
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New agents often start between GS-7 and GS-9, with promotions as they gain experience.
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Annual increases occur until step 10 within a grade.
2. Locality Pay
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Added to base pay based on duty station location.
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Designed to offset cost-of-living differences.
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Can range from 16% in lower-cost areas to over 40% in major cities.
3. Overtime and Premium Pay
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Overtime: 1.5 times regular hourly rate for work beyond scheduled hours.
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Sunday pay: 25% extra for Sunday shifts.
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Night pay: 10% extra for night shifts.
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Holiday pay: Double time.
4. Bonuses and Special Pay
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Some positions include recruitment or relocation incentives.
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Language proficiency bonuses may apply.
Homeland Security Agent Salary by Location – 2025
Location has a major effect on Homeland Security agent pay because of locality adjustments.
High-Pay Locality Areas
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San Francisco, CA – ~45% locality rate
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GS-12 Step 5: ~$117,000/year base → ~$169,650/year with locality pay.
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New York City, NY – ~36% locality rate
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GS-11 Step 7: ~$92,000/year base → ~$125,120/year with locality pay.
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Washington, D.C. – ~33% locality rate
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GS-13 Step 3: ~$109,000/year base → ~$144,970/year with locality pay.
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Moderate Locality Pay Areas
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Dallas, TX – ~24% locality rate
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GS-11 Step 5: ~$88,000/year base → ~$109,120/year with locality pay.
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Chicago, IL – ~28% locality rate
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GS-12 Step 4: ~$101,000/year base → ~$129,280/year with locality pay.
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Low Locality Pay Areas
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Oklahoma City, OK – ~16% locality rate
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GS-9 Step 6: ~$62,000/year base → ~$71,920/year with locality pay.
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Tallahassee, FL – ~17% locality rate
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GS-9 Step 5: ~$61,000/year base → ~$71,370/year with locality pay.
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Summary Table – Homeland Security Agent Salary Estimates by Location (2025)
| City / State | Base Pay (GS-12 Step 5) | Locality Rate | Total Annual Pay | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $117,000 | 45% | $169,650 | $14,137 |
| New York, NY | $117,000 | 36% | $159,120 | $13,260 |
| Washington, D.C. | $117,000 | 33% | $155,610 | $12,967 |
| Dallas, TX | $117,000 | 24% | $145,080 | $12,090 |
| Chicago, IL | $117,000 | 28% | $149,760 | $12,480 |
| Oklahoma City, OK | $117,000 | 16% | $135,720 | $11,310 |
Homeland Security Agent Salary by Experience
Experience plays a huge role in earnings. Agents move up steps annually and can be promoted to higher grades as they gain expertise and take on more responsibility.
Entry-Level (0–3 Years)
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Usually GS-7 or GS-9.
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Annual pay with locality: $50,000–$75,000.
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May receive overtime due to training and fieldwork.
Mid-Career (4–10 Years)
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GS-11 to GS-12.
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Annual pay with locality: $85,000–$130,000.
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More consistent overtime and potential for specialized assignments.
Senior-Level (10+ Years)
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GS-13 to GS-15.
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Annual pay with locality: $120,000–$170,000+.
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Includes supervisory roles, special pay, and higher overtime potential.
Career Progression and Salary Growth
| Position | Typical Grade | Average Annual Pay (with locality) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Homeland Security Agent | GS-7 / GS-9 | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Experienced Special Agent | GS-11 / GS-12 | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| Senior Special Agent / Supervisor | GS-13 | $120,000 – $150,000 |
| Assistant Special Agent in Charge | GS-14 | $135,000 – $160,000 |
| Special Agent in Charge | GS-15 | $150,000 – $170,000+ |
Benefits for Homeland Security Agents
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Retirement – FERS with law enforcement retirement eligibility.
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Health Insurance – FEHB coverage.
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Life Insurance – FEGLI.
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Leave – 13–26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 holidays.
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Training – Paid academy training.
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Uniform / Equipment – Provided where applicable.
Comparison with Other Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
| Agency | Average Annual Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Homeland Security Agent | $90,000 – $150,000 | Strong overtime, high locality pay |
| FBI Special Agent | $95,000 – $160,000 | Higher starting grade |
| Border Patrol Agent | $80,000 – $130,000 | AUO overtime system |
| Secret Service Agent | $100,000 – $170,000 | High travel, mission pay |
Frequently Asked Questions – Homeland Security Agent Pay
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What is the starting salary for a DHS agent in 2025?
Around $55,000–$75,000 depending on grade and location. -
Do Homeland Security agents get overtime?
Yes, overtime is common and can significantly increase pay. -
What is the highest-paying DHS location?
San Francisco, CA, due to the highest locality adjustment. -
Is Homeland Security agent pay better than local police?
Generally yes, especially with federal benefits. -
Do agents get hazard pay?
Certain assignments may qualify for extra pay. -
How often do agents get raises?
Step increases annually; grade increases with promotion. -
Can agents choose their assignment location?
Not always, but preferences can be requested. -
Is locality pay taxable?
Yes, all pay is generally taxable. -
Do DHS agents have mandatory retirement?
Yes, at age 57 with 20 years of service. -
Can DHS experience transfer to other agencies?
Yes, many agents move to other federal or state agencies.
Conclusion
In 2025, Homeland Security agent salaries are highly competitive, especially when factoring in locality adjustments, overtime, and federal benefits. While starting pay is around $55,000–$75,000, experienced agents can easily exceed $150,000 annually in high locality areas.
For those seeking a career in federal law enforcement with opportunities for advancement, DHS offers strong compensation, stability, and benefits.