How much does a Benefits Specialist make?
A Benefits Specialist plays a key role in managing employee benefits programs. This role involves ensuring that employees understand and can access the benefits offered by their employer. The average yearly salary for a Benefits Specialist is around $64,573. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.
The salary range for a Benefits Specialist can be quite broad. At the lower end, some specialists earn around $35,000 per year. This often includes those who are just starting in the field or working in smaller companies. As experience grows, so does the salary. Specialists with more than 10 years of experience can earn upwards of $121,364 annually. Location also plays a part, with higher salaries typically found in larger metropolitan areas.
What are the highest paying cities for a Benefits Specialist?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $97,025
In San Francisco, professionals in this role enjoy a dynamic work environment with tech giants like Salesforce and Google. The city's vibrant culture and high cost of living make it a unique place to work.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $95,547
Stamford offers a mix of corporate and community-focused work. Companies like Xerox and United Technologies provide excellent opportunities. The commute is convenient, and the area is known for its quality of life.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Stamford, CT
-
Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $86,077
Working in Boulder means enjoying a healthy lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities. Companies like Google and Ball Corporation offer great benefits. The community is friendly and supportive.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Boulder, CO
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $83,246
Minneapolis provides a balanced work environment with companies like Target and 3M. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, making it a great place to live and work.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $82,730
San Jose is a hub for tech companies like Apple and Cisco. Professionals in this role benefit from a dynamic and fast-paced work environment. The city offers a diverse culture and a high quality of life.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $80,658
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse work environment with companies like Amazon and Disney. The city's entertainment industry provides unique perks. The cost of living is high, but so are the opportunities.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $80,574
Washington, DC offers a political and corporate blend with companies like Lockheed Martin and the World Bank. The city's rich history and cultural events add to the work experience. The cost of living is high, but so are the benefits.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $80,115
Detroit provides a mix of industrial and community-focused work with companies like Ford and General Motors. The city is known for its music and arts scene. The cost of living is lower, making it an attractive option.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Detroit, MI
-
Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $78,583
Nashville offers a vibrant music and entertainment scene with companies like Amazon and Bridgestone. The city is known for its friendly people and strong community. The cost of living is moderate.
Find Benefits Specialist jobs in Nashville, TN
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $78,044
Chicago offers a mix of corporate and community work with companies like Boeing and Accenture. The city's rich history and cultural events add to the work experience. The cost of living is moderate, and the city offers a lot of opportunities.
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 across its global offices. Employees manage employee benefits programs, ensuring staff have access to health, retirement, and other benefits. Locations include the USA, Europe, and Asia.
-
The Standard Insurance
Average Salary: $133,870
The Standard Insurance provides Benefits Specialist positions that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices across the USA, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
-
Accenture
Average Salary: $127,550
Accenture offers Benefits Specialist roles that involve managing employee benefits and insurance programs. Employees work in offices worldwide, helping to develop and implement benefits strategies for clients.
-
IMA Financial Group
Average Salary: $116,333
IMA Financial Group provides Benefits Specialist positions that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices across the USA, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
-
Deloitte
Average Salary: $109,840
Deloitte offers Benefits Specialist roles that involve managing employee benefits and insurance programs. Employees work in offices worldwide, helping to develop and implement benefits strategies for clients.
-
Alliant Insurance Services
Average Salary: $84,760
Alliant Insurance Services provides Benefits Specialist positions that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices across the USA, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
-
Marsh McLennan
Average Salary: $81,698
Marsh McLennan offers Benefits Specialist roles that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices worldwide, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
-
Optum
Average Salary: $80,693
Optum provides Benefits Specialist positions that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices across the USA, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
-
PRESTIGE EMPLOYEE ADMINISTRATORS
Average Salary: $78,341
PRESTIGE EMPLOYEE ADMINISTRATORS offers Benefits Specialist roles that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices across the USA, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
-
Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Co.
Average Salary: $76,470
Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Co. provides Benefits Specialist positions that focus on employee benefits and insurance. Employees work in offices across the USA, helping to design and manage benefit plans for clients.
How to earn more as a Benefits Specialist?
A Benefits Specialist plays a key role in ensuring employees have access to the benefits they need. To earn more in this role, consider these important factors. Gaining experience and expertise can lead to higher pay. Specialization in certain areas, such as retirement plans or health insurance, can make a specialist more valuable. Networking with other professionals can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Continuing education and certifications can also boost earning potential. Lastly, seeking positions in industries that offer higher compensation can make a significant difference.
Specializing in high-demand areas can increase earning potential. For example, expertise in managing complex health insurance plans or retirement benefits can set a specialist apart. Certifications from recognized bodies can also enhance credibility and salary. Networking with industry leaders and attending relevant conferences can lead to better job opportunities. Staying updated with industry trends and regulations ensures a specialist remains competitive. These steps can help a Benefits Specialist earn more and advance in their career.
Consider these factors to increase earnings as a Benefits Specialist:
- Gain experience and expertise in the field.
- Specialize in high-demand areas like retirement plans or health insurance.
- Obtain relevant certifications and continue education.
- Network with industry professionals and attend conferences.
- Seek positions in industries that offer higher compensation.