How much does a Benefits Specialist make?
A Benefits Specialist plays a key role in managing employee benefits programs. This role often involves ensuring that employees understand and can access their benefits. The average yearly salary for a Benefits Specialist is around $63,294. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.
Benefits Specialists can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience and the industry they work in. For example, those with more experience or in larger companies may earn more. The salary range can be quite broad, from about $34,752 to $130,000 per year. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Benefits Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $99,023
In San Francisco, professionals in this role enjoy a dynamic work environment. Many tech companies, like Salesforce and Slack, offer competitive benefits. The cost of living is high, but so are the salaries.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $86,077
Boulder offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and professional opportunities. Companies like Google and Uber provide excellent benefits packages. The city's vibrant community adds to the appeal.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $82,883
Minneapolis is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong healthcare sector. Employers like UnitedHealth Group and Target offer robust benefits. The city's cultural scene is also a big draw.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $81,768
San Jose is a hub for tech companies, including Apple and Cisco. Professionals here enjoy a wide range of benefits. The city's fast-paced environment is ideal for those who thrive in innovation.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $81,369
In Washington, DC, working in this field means being part of a political and corporate nexus. Companies like Amazon and Deloitte offer strong benefits. The city's rich history adds to the professional experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,593
Los Angeles offers a diverse work environment with many entertainment companies. Firms like Disney and Warner Bros. provide excellent benefits. The city's vibrant lifestyle is a big plus.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $79,027
Detroit is experiencing a resurgence, with companies like General Motors and Ford offering solid benefits. The city's rich automotive history adds to the professional appeal.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $78,344
Nashville is known for its music scene and growing tech industry. Companies like Amazon and LifePoint Health offer good benefits. The city's warm community makes it a great place to work.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $77,947
Chicago offers a mix of corporate and cultural opportunities. Companies like United Airlines and Boeing provide strong benefits. The city's diverse neighborhoods add to the professional experience.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $76,235
Orlando is a hub for tourism and healthcare. Companies like AdventHealth and Universal Studios offer good benefits. The city's family-friendly environment makes it a great place to live and work.
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What are the best companies a Benefits Specialist can work for?

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Google
Average Salary: $146,421
Google offers exciting Benefits Specialist roles across its global offices. Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Locations include Mountain View, California, and offices worldwide.
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The Standard Insurance
Average Salary: $133,870
The Standard Insurance provides rewarding Benefits Specialist positions. Employees benefit from a strong benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance. The company operates in Salt Lake City, Utah, and has offices across the United States.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $104,686
Deloitte offers a dynamic environment for Benefits Specialists. Employees receive competitive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. Deloitte has offices in major cities across the United States and globally.
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University of California Office of the President
Average Salary: $84,930
The University of California Office of the President provides Benefits Specialist roles with a strong benefits package. Employees enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. The company operates in Oakland, California, and across the University of California system.
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Optum
Average Salary: $81,524
Optum offers Benefits Specialist positions with a comprehensive benefits package. Employees benefit from health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Optum operates in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and has offices nationwide.
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Alliant Insurance Services
Average Salary: $78,808
Alliant Insurance Services provides Benefits Specialist roles with a strong benefits package. Employees enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The company operates in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and has offices across the United States.
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PRESTIGE EMPLOYEE ADMINISTRATORS
Average Salary: $77,982
PRESTIGE EMPLOYEE ADMINISTRATORS offers Benefits Specialist positions with a competitive benefits package. Employees benefit from health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The company operates in Los Angeles, California.
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Marsh McLennan
Average Salary: $76,912
Marsh McLennan provides Benefits Specialist roles with a comprehensive benefits package. Employees enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. The company operates in New York, New York, and has offices worldwide.
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Pacific Life
Average Salary: $76,806
Pacific Life offers Benefits Specialist positions with a strong benefits package. Employees benefit from health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The company operates in Irvine, California, and has offices across the United States.
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Ascensus
Average Salary: $75,981
Ascensus provides Benefits Specialist roles with a competitive benefits package. Employees enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The company operates in Rosemont, Illinois, and has offices across the United States.
How to earn more as a Benefits Specialist?
A Benefits Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that employees understand and utilize their benefits packages. This role can be both rewarding and lucrative. To maximize earnings in this field, consider the following factors:
First, gaining relevant certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications such as the Certified Benefits Specialist (CBS) or the Employee Benefits Law Professional (EBLP) demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field. These credentials can make a candidate more attractive to employers and open up higher-paying opportunities.
Second, experience matters. Specialists with more years of experience often command higher salaries. Working in various industries can also provide a broader skill set and make a candidate more versatile. Networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation.
- Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications like CBS or EBLP.
- Experience: Accumulate years of experience in the field.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals to find better job opportunities.
- Specialization: Focus on specific areas like retirement plans or health insurance.
- Advanced Education: Pursue higher education in human resources or a related field.
Third, specializing in a particular area of benefits can enhance earning potential. For example, focusing on retirement plans or health insurance can lead to more specialized roles that pay more. Fourth, pursuing advanced education in human resources or a related field can also increase earning potential. Degrees or advanced certifications can provide a deeper understanding of benefits management and open up higher-level positions.