How much does a Chief Operating Officer make?
A Chief Operating Officer (COO) plays a key role in a company. They help manage day-to-day operations and ensure the business runs smoothly. This important job often comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a COO is around $165,151. This means they earn a solid income for their hard work and responsibility.
COOs can earn different amounts based on their experience and the company they work for. Some earn less than the average, while others make much more. For example, the lowest 10% of earners make about $55,000 a year. On the other hand, the top 10% can earn over $350,000 annually. This wide range shows that there is good potential for growth and higher earnings in this role. Being a COO can lead to a rewarding and well-paid career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Chief Operating Officer?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $263,361
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for operational leaders. With tech giants like Intel and Cisco, the city thrives on innovation. Professionals here manage large-scale operations and drive growth.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $212,120
In Worcester, operational leaders find a mix of industry and opportunity. Companies like UMASS Memorial Health offer diverse challenges. Here, one can lead with a focus on community and healthcare excellence.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $211,255
Sacramento provides a unique blend of government and private sector opportunities. With firms like Blue Shield of California, leaders here shape policy and operations. The city values strong leadership and community engagement.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $206,996
Las Vegas is a vibrant hub for operations in the entertainment and hospitality sectors. With major companies like MGM Resorts, leaders here manage dynamic environments. The city's fast pace offers exciting challenges.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $202,084
Seattle's tech scene makes it a prime location for operational leaders. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft thrive here. Professionals manage cutting-edge projects and drive innovation in a collaborative environment.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $198,387
Stockton offers a growing market for operational leaders. With companies like Pacific Gas and Electric, the focus is on energy and infrastructure. Leaders here manage critical services and community growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $197,664
San Francisco is a hub for tech and finance, offering exciting opportunities for operational leaders. With firms like Salesforce and Uber, the city demands strategic and innovative management. Professionals here shape the future of tech.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $197,485
San Diego provides a blend of biotech and defense industries. With companies like Qualcomm and Scripps Health, leaders manage complex operations. The city values innovation and quality of life.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $196,814
Los Angeles offers a diverse market for operational leaders. With entertainment giants like Disney and Warner Bros., the focus is on creativity and efficiency. Leaders here manage large teams and drive major projects.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $193,640
Fresno is a growing market with opportunities in agriculture and healthcare. Companies like Fresno County and Community Medical Centers offer diverse challenges. Leaders here manage growth and community health.
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What are the best companies a Chief Operating Officer can work for?

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AmeriSave Mortgage
Average Salary: $350,000
AmeriSave Mortgage offers a dynamic role for Chief Operating Officers. They operate nationwide, providing mortgage solutions. The COO oversees operations, ensuring efficiency and growth.
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Korn Ferry
Average Salary: $340,000
Korn Ferry is a global organizational consulting firm. The Chief Operating Officer manages operations across various locations, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. They focus on enhancing operational performance.
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Marsh McLennan Agency
Average Salary: $317,500
Marsh McLennan Agency is a leading insurance brokerage and risk management company. The COO leads operations in major cities like New York, London, and Hong Kong. They drive strategic initiatives to improve service delivery.
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Tenet Healthcare
Average Salary: $262,242
Tenet Healthcare operates hospitals and healthcare facilities across the U.S. The Chief Operating Officer oversees daily operations, ensuring high-quality patient care. They work in locations such as California, Texas, and Florida.
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SAP
Average Salary: $259,702
SAP is a global software company. The COO manages operations in key markets like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. They focus on optimizing business processes and driving innovation.
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Merchants Bank
Average Salary: $230,000
Merchants Bank offers a range of financial services. The Chief Operating Officer oversees operations in major cities like New York and San Francisco. They ensure efficient banking services and customer satisfaction.
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Kennedy/Jenks Consultants
Average Salary: $226,250
Kennedy/Jenks Consultants provide management and executive search services. The COO manages operations in cities like Chicago and Boston. They focus on delivering top-notch consulting services to clients.
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Kindred Hospitals
Average Salary: $166,952
Kindred Hospitals offers long-term acute care and rehabilitation services. The Chief Operating Officer oversees operations in various locations across the U.S. They ensure high-quality patient care and operational efficiency.
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Atlas Healthcare Partners LLC
Average Salary: $163,248
Atlas Healthcare Partners LLC provides healthcare management services. The COO manages operations in key regions like the Southeast and Southwest U.S. They focus on improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
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Select Specialty Hospital
Average Salary: $157,853
Select Specialty Hospital offers long-term acute care services. The Chief Operating Officer oversees operations in multiple locations across the U.S. They ensure high-quality care and operational excellence.
How to earn more as a Chief Operating Officer?
A Chief Operating Officer (COO) plays a key role in a company's success. They manage daily operations and ensure everything runs smoothly. To earn more as a COO, focus on these important factors. Improving in these areas can lead to higher earnings and career growth.
First, gaining experience in different industries helps a COO understand various business models. This knowledge makes them more valuable. Second, developing strong leadership skills is crucial. A COO must inspire and guide their team effectively. Third, mastering financial management allows a COO to make smart budget decisions. Fourth, staying updated with the latest technology trends helps a COO streamline operations. Finally, building a strong professional network opens up new opportunities. These factors can lead to higher pay and better job prospects.
Here are five key factors to consider:
- Industry experience
- Leadership skills
- Financial management
- Technology knowledge
- Professional network