How Much Does CMMC Compliance Cost?

Understanding the True Cost of CMMC

The DoD intentionally does not publish a fixed cost for CMMC compliance because costs vary dramatically based on your organization's size, complexity, and current cybersecurity maturity. However, here's what industry data tells us:

Cost Factors by CMMC Level

• Level 1 (Self-Assessment): Typically $5,000 - $30,000 for small businesses. Covers implementing 15 basic safeguarding requirements from FAR 52.204-21 and conducting the self-assessment.
• Level 2 (Self-Assessment): $20,000 - $100,000+ depending on network complexity. Requires implementing all 110 NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 controls and documenting your SSP.
• Level 2 (C3PAO Assessment): Add $30,000 - $150,000+ for the third-party assessment itself, depending on scope and assessor availability.
• Level 3: Significantly higher costs due to the 24 additional NIST SP 800-172 requirements and DIBCAC-led assessment.

Hidden Costs to Budget For

Many organizations underestimate the total investment. Beyond the assessment itself, budget for:

• Technology upgrades — SIEM, MFA, encryption, endpoint protection
• Managed security services — if you lack in-house security staff
• Documentation — SSP, POA&M, policies, and procedures development
• Training — Security awareness training for all employees
• Ongoing maintenance — Annual affirmations, continuous monitoring, and periodic reassessments

The DoD has clarified that existing DFARS 252.204-7012 implementation costs are not part of the CMMC cost — meaning you should already have been investing in NIST SP 800-171 compliance. CMMC adds the verification layer on top.