How much does a Chief Operating Officer make?
A Chief Operating Officer, or COO, is a top executive in a company. This person helps run the business and makes sure it runs smoothly. The salary for a COO can vary. It can depend on the size of the company and the industry.
The average yearly salary for a COO is around $163,075. However, salaries can differ. Some may make less, while others make much more. An entry-level COO might earn around $48,770 a year. A more experienced one might earn up to $370,000 or more. Here are some common salary ranges:
- $48,770 to $77,973
- $77,973 to $107,175
- $107,175 to $136,378
- $136,378 to $165,581
- $165,581 to $194,784
- $194,784 to $223,986
- $223,986 to $253,189
- $253,189 to $282,392
- $282,392 to $311,595
- $311,595 to $340,797
- $340,797 to $370,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Chief Operating Officer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $242,489
In Silicon Valley, leading operations means driving innovation. Companies like Adobe and Intel offer dynamic work environments where you can make impactful decisions.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $236,307
Buffalo's strong manufacturing base provides a solid foundation. Here, you can lead operations in industries like healthcare and finance. Companies like M&T Bank and Wegmans Food Markets are prominent.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $223,427
Worcester is a hub for education and healthcare. Leading operations here allows you to influence key sectors. You can work with companies such as UMass Memorial Health and the College of the Holy Cross.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $222,626
San Diego offers a mix of tech and biotech industries. Leading operations here means you can work in a vibrant, coastal city. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina are major employers.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $217,102
Chicago's diverse economy provides many opportunities. Leading operations here means you can influence sectors from finance to manufacturing. Companies like Boeing and JPMorgan Chase are well-known.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $216,726
In LA, operations management involves navigating a vast and diverse market. You can work in entertainment, technology, and more. Major companies like Sony Pictures and AT&T are here.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $214,244
Seattle's tech scene is booming. Leading operations here means you can work with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city’s progressive culture enhances your work experience.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $211,494
Sacramento offers a blend of public and private sectors. Leading operations here allows you to impact state government and local businesses. Key companies include Blue Shield of California and the State of California.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $208,817
San Francisco's tech industry thrives here. Leading operations means you can work with giants like Google and Salesforce. The city's innovative spirit drives your work.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $208,285
Stockton offers a smaller, community-focused environment. Leading operations here can mean making a big impact in a close-knit setting. Companies like Pacific Gas and Electric and the City of Stockton are major employers.
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What are the best companies a Chief Operating Officer can work for?

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Korn Ferry
Average Salary: $371,250
Korn Ferry provides human resources and organizational consulting. They offer roles across various locations including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. In this role, you will lead multiple teams to drive growth and efficiency.
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AmeriSave Mortgage
Average Salary: $350,000
AmeriSave Mortgage focuses on home lending solutions. Their Chief Operating Officer manages operations in key locations like Atlanta and Dallas. The position involves overseeing daily operations to ensure financial stability.
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SAP
Average Salary: $277,277
SAP delivers enterprise application software. They have operations in cities such as San Francisco and Austin. As COO, you will oversee software development and business operations to meet company goals.
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Marsh McLennan Agency
Average Salary: $264,650
Marsh McLennan Agency provides risk, strategy, and human capital advisory services. They operate in locations such as New York and London. In this role, you will manage risk and ensure strategic planning for the company.
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Merchants Bank
Average Salary: $230,000
Merchants Bank offers personal and commercial banking services. They are based in locations like Detroit and Charlotte. The Chief Operating Officer will manage bank operations and ensure customer satisfaction.
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AppleOne
Average Salary: $162,278
AppleOne specializes in employment services. Their operations span cities such as Los Angeles and New York. As COO, you will manage staffing solutions and ensure smooth business operations.
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YMCA
Average Salary: $158,115
YMCA offers community services and youth development programs. Locations include Boston and Seattle. The Chief Operating Officer will manage community programs and ensure they meet community needs.
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United Way
Average Salary: $118,243
United Way focuses on community improvement and social services. They operate in locations such as San Francisco and Atlanta. The COO will oversee programs and ensure effective community support.
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Abco Maintenance
Average Salary: $100,000
Abco Maintenance provides facility management services. They are based in cities like Philadelphia and Miami. As COO, you will manage maintenance operations to ensure smooth business continuity.
How to earn more as a Chief Operating Officer?
Becoming a Chief Operating Officer (COO) can be a great way to earn a good living. To increase earnings, focus on several key factors that can help boost success in this role. These factors include experience, education, skills, networking, and performance.
Experience is important. Companies value COOs with a proven track record. Gaining experience in different industries and roles can open more earning opportunities. Education, especially in business administration or a related field, can also boost a COO's salary. Advanced degrees or certifications can further enhance earning potential. Developing strong skills in areas like leadership, strategy, and financial management can make a COO more valuable. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are also key. Networking with other professionals can lead to better job offers and salary increases. Attending industry events and joining professional organizations can expand a COO's network.
Performance matters. Demonstrating a strong ability to improve operations, increase efficiency, and drive revenue can lead to higher earnings. A history of successful projects and measurable results can make a COO more attractive to potential employers. Keep learning and growing to stay competitive in the job market. By focusing on these factors, a COO can work towards higher earnings and career success.



