How much does a Business Developer make?
The role of a Business Developer can lead to a rewarding career with a competitive salary. On average, a Business Developer earns around $90,870 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Early in their careers, Business Developers may earn closer to $36,000. As they gain experience and advance, they can earn significantly more, with some reaching up to $242,500 annually.
Most Business Developers find themselves earning between $54,773 and $129,864 per year. A good number of them earn a salary in this range, which shows the potential for growth in the field. The industry, company size, and specific role can impact these figures. For those new to the field, starting on the lower end is common, with opportunities to grow as skills and experience increase.
What are the highest paying cities for a Business Developer?

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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $151,996
In Providence, a Business Developer gains opportunities to engage with a mix of startups and established firms. The city's tech scene offers chances to work with companies like Textron. The environment here fosters innovation, with a strong focus on growth and new ventures.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $142,994
San Francisco offers a vibrant market for Business Developers. With tech giants like Google and Salesforce, this city thrives on innovation. Working here means tapping into a dynamic network of entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, ideal for business growth.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $135,079
Seattle is a powerhouse for Business Developers, home to Amazon and Microsoft. The city’s robust tech ecosystem provides excellent networking and partnership opportunities. Developers here enjoy a collaborative environment focused on tech advancement.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $122,980
Stamford offers a mix of opportunities for Business Developers in both finance and tech sectors. The presence of companies like United Technologies and Charter Communications provides a solid platform for growth. The city's diverse business landscape supports various business development strategies.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $118,710
Boston's Business Developers benefit from a rich history of innovation and education. With companies like Liberty Mutual and State Street Corporation, the city is ripe with opportunities. Boston's business-friendly environment supports startups and established firms alike.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $114,567
San Jose is a central hub for Business Developers in the tech world. Home to many tech firms, it provides a fertile ground for networking and business growth. The city's dynamic startup culture offers constant opportunities for professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $113,386
San Diego offers a unique blend of tech and lifestyle for Business Developers. With companies like Qualcomm, the city thrives on innovation and business growth. The relaxed environment and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive place for business professionals.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $113,371
Washington, DC, is a political and business hub for Business Developers. With numerous government contracts and tech startups, the city offers diverse opportunities. Working here means engaging with a broad range of businesses and industries.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $109,677
Los Angeles provides a vibrant setting for Business Developers with its diverse industries. Companies like NBCUniversal offer dynamic opportunities. The city’s creative environment fuels business innovation and networking.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $108,389
Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of industry and innovation for Business Developers. With companies like UPMC and PPG, the city is a hub for medical and industrial growth. Pittsburgh’s growing tech scene provides fresh opportunities for business development.
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What are the best companies a Business Developer can work for?

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Staples
Average Salary: $580,629
Staples offers exciting opportunities for Business Developers. They focus on expanding market reach and increasing sales. They have locations across the United States, Europe, and Asia, providing a global platform for career growth.
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Synchrony
Average Salary: $216,705
At Synchrony, Business Developers work to drive financial solutions for customers. They aim to enhance service offerings and improve client satisfaction. With offices in the US and Europe, Synchrony offers diverse experiences.
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Amazon Pharmacy
Average Salary: $200,768
Amazon Pharmacy seeks Business Developers to help streamline healthcare services. They focus on innovative solutions and customer convenience. They have locations in the US, providing a stable work environment.
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Arcadis
Average Salary: $200,334
Arcadis offers Business Developers the chance to work on sustainability projects. They aim to create better environments through thoughtful design. Their global presence includes offices in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $194,833
AWS looks for Business Developers to support cloud services. They focus on expanding business opportunities and enhancing client engagement. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia, offering a broad market reach.
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Apple
Average Salary: $190,603
Apple offers Business Developers roles in product development and market strategy. They work to innovate and improve consumer experiences. Their global presence includes locations in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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Aon
Average Salary: $187,296
Aon provides Business Developers with opportunities in risk management and consulting. They aim to help clients make informed decisions. They operate in the US, Europe, and Asia, offering a diverse work environment.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $181,000
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers Business Developers roles in scientific research and lab services. They focus on advancing scientific knowledge. Their offices span the US, Europe, and Asia, providing a global career path.
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HDR
Average Salary: $177,118
HDR looks for Business Developers to contribute to architecture and engineering projects. They focus on creating sustainable and innovative designs. Their offices are in the US, Europe, and Asia.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $174,513
L3Harris offers Business Developers roles in aerospace and defense. They focus on providing cutting-edge technology solutions. Their offices are in the US, providing a stable and growing work environment.
How to earn more as a Business Developer?
A business developer can improve their earnings by focusing on a few key areas. Networking with professionals in your industry can open doors to lucrative opportunities. Attending conferences, joining industry groups, and connecting on LinkedIn can expand your circle of contacts.
Specializing in a specific market segment or industry can also lead to higher earnings. Business developers who become experts in their field often command higher salaries. This expertise allows them to provide more value to their employers.
Improving sales skills can lead to higher commissions. Learning about effective sales techniques, customer relationship management, and closing deals can boost income. Many business developers find that taking courses or getting certifications helps them in this area.
Using data and analytics to drive business decisions can increase effectiveness. Business developers who can show how their efforts lead to higher sales and growth often earn more. Learning to use tools like Google Analytics and CRM software is useful.
Continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends can keep a business developer competitive. This can involve taking courses, attending workshops, or reading industry publications. Keeping skills sharp and knowledge current leads to better job performance and higher pay.
Below are five factors that can help a business developer earn more:
- Networking with industry professionals
- Specializing in a specific market segment
- Improving sales skills
- Using data and analytics
- Continuous learning and staying updated on trends



