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 the benefits offered by their employer. The average yearly salary for a Benefits Specialist is around $64,840. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Benefits Specialists can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience and the company they work for. For instance, those with less than a year of experience might earn around $35,010. On the other hand, those with more than 10 years of experience can earn up to $122,955. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth in this field. Companies in larger cities or those with more resources may offer higher salaries. This means that the location and the employer can greatly affect earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Benefits Specialist?

-
Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $100,070
In Stamford, working in benefits offers a stable environment with many large companies. Firms like United Technologies and Charter Communications provide excellent benefits packages. Professionals here enjoy a mix of urban and suburban living.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Stamford, CT
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $96,185
San Francisco is a dynamic place for benefits specialists. With tech giants like Google and Salesforce, the job market is vibrant. Employees benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $86,077
Boulder offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and professional benefits work. Companies like Boulder Community Health and CU Boulder provide rewarding career paths. The city's healthy lifestyle enhances job satisfaction.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Boulder, CO
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $84,150
Minneapolis is known for its strong corporate culture. Benefits specialists here work with companies like Target and 3M. The city offers a good work-life balance and a supportive community.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $80,961
San Jose is a tech hub with many opportunities for benefits specialists. Companies like Intel and Cisco offer cutting-edge benefits. The city's fast-paced environment keeps professionals engaged.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $80,710
Los Angeles provides a diverse job market for benefits specialists. With companies like Amazon and NBCUniversal, the city offers varied opportunities. The entertainment industry adds a unique flair to the work environment.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $80,214
Detroit is experiencing a revival, offering new opportunities for benefits specialists. Companies like General Motors and Ford provide stable careers. The city's rich culture enhances the professional experience.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Detroit, MI
-
Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $80,199
Nashville combines a growing job market with a vibrant lifestyle. Benefits specialists here work with companies like Bridgestone and LifeWay Christian Stores. The city's music scene adds a lively atmosphere to the workplace.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Nashville, TN
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $80,179
Washington, DC, offers a political and professional environment for benefits specialists. Working with firms like Deloitte and the World Bank, professionals benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. The city's rich history adds to the job experience.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $78,502
Chicago provides a bustling job market for benefits specialists. Companies like Accenture and United Airlines offer diverse opportunities. The city's vibrant culture makes for an engaging work environment.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL
What are the best companies a Benefits Specialist can work for?

-
Google
Average Salary: $146,421
Google offers exciting Benefits Specialist roles. They manage employee benefits across various locations, including Mountain View, California, and offices worldwide. Google values its employees and offers competitive benefits.
-
The Standard Insurance
Average Salary: $139,250
The Standard Insurance provides Benefits Specialist jobs with a focus on employee benefits. They operate in Salt Lake City, Utah, and other locations. The company offers a supportive environment and comprehensive benefits.
-
Accenture
Average Salary: $127,550
Accenture has Benefits Specialist positions in many cities, including New York and San Francisco. They manage employee benefits and offer a dynamic work environment. Accenture values diversity and inclusion.
-
IMA Financial Group
Average Salary: $116,333
IMA Financial Group offers Benefits Specialist jobs with a focus on employee benefits. They operate in Chicago, Illinois, and other locations. The company provides a collaborative work environment and competitive benefits.
-
Deloitte
Average Salary: $109,840
Deloitte offers Benefits Specialist roles in many cities, including Denver, Colorado. They manage employee benefits and offer a professional work environment. Deloitte values innovation and employee well-being.
-
University of California Office of the President
Average Salary: $88,041
The University of California Office of the President offers Benefits Specialist jobs in California. They manage employee benefits and offer a supportive work environment. The university values education and employee development.
-
Optum
Average Salary: $84,055
Optum offers Benefits Specialist roles in many cities, including Minnetonka, Minnesota. They manage employee benefits and offer a dynamic work environment. Optum values health and wellness.
-
Alliant Insurance Services
Average Salary: $82,845
Alliant Insurance Services offers Benefits Specialist jobs in many cities, including Minneapolis, Minnesota. They manage employee benefits and offer a supportive work environment. The company values teamwork and innovation.
-
Marsh McLennan
Average Salary: $81,698
Marsh McLennan offers Benefits Specialist roles in many cities, including New York. They manage employee benefits and offer a professional work environment. The company values diversity and inclusion.
-
Principal Financial Group
Average Salary: $76,980
Principal Financial Group offers Benefits Specialist jobs in many cities, including Des Moines, Iowa. They manage employee benefits and offer a supportive work environment. The company values innovation and employee well-being.
How to earn more as a Benefits Specialist?
A Benefits Specialist plays a key role in ensuring employees have the right benefits. This role can be very rewarding. Increasing your earning potential in this field requires a mix of skills and experience. Here are some ways to boost your salary as a Benefits Specialist.
First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Specialists with several years in the field often earn more. Experience helps you understand the complexities of benefits packages. It also shows employers you can handle the job well. Second, earning additional certifications can make you more valuable. Certifications like the Certified Benefits Specialist (CBS) can set you apart. They show you have a deep understanding of benefits management. Third, specializing in a niche area can increase your salary. For example, focusing on retirement plans or health insurance can make you more in demand. Fourth, working for a larger company can offer higher pay. Larger companies often have bigger budgets for benefits. They may also offer more opportunities for advancement. Finally, seeking out roles in high-cost areas can lead to higher earnings. Cities with a high cost of living often pay more for benefits specialists. This can be a good way to increase your salary.
By focusing on these areas, Benefits Specialists can increase their earning potential. Experience, certifications, specialization, company size, and location all play a role. Taking steps in these areas can lead to a more rewarding career.
- Gain more experience
- Earn additional certifications
- Specialize in a niche area
- Work for a larger company
- Seek roles in high-cost areas



