Pete Hegseth Secretary of Defense Salary
Pete Hegseth serves as the U.S. Secretary of Defense, the civilian leader of the Department of Defense. The salary for this cabinet position is set by federal law and is tied to the Executive Schedule. As of recent pay tables, the Secretary of Defense earns a base salary consistent with Level I of the Executive Schedule.
Additional Pay and Benefits
Beyond the base salary, the Secretary of Defense receives standard federal benefits, including a government pension plan, health insurance, and travel allowances. The role also includes access to official residences and transportation, which are part of the position's compensation package rather than direct cash pay.
How Secretary of Defense Pay Is Determined
Pay for cabinet-level officials is established by Congress and the Office of Personnel Management. It is not set by the individual officeholder. Changes to the salary typically occur when Congress updates the Executive Schedule, meaning the compensation is public, fixed by statute, and subject to federal budgeting rules.
Quick Facts on Pete Hegseth Compensation
Pete Hegseth's total compensation as Secretary of Defense is based on the publicly available Executive Schedule pay rate for Level I officials. For the most current pay figures and official guidance, refer to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management website at OPM.gov.
