Position
Salary

How much does a City Manager make?

The average salary for a City Manager is $139,135 per year in the US.

Becoming a City Manager can lead to a rewarding career and a strong salary. City Managers play a key role in managing the day-to-day operations of a city. They work to ensure that city services run smoothly. According to recent data, City Managers earn an average yearly salary of $139,135.

This salary can vary widely. Some managers earn less while others make much more. For example, the lowest 10% earn about $37,800 annually, while the top 10% can earn over $310,000 per year. These figures show that experience, education, and city size can affect earnings. Job seekers can expect a range of salaries based on these factors. A career in city management offers both financial rewards and opportunities to make a meaningful impact in a community.

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What are the highest paying cities for a City Manager?

Job seekers looking for a City Manager role should consider Portland, OR, where the average salary stands at $165,676. This competitive pay makes it an attractive option for those in the field. Austin, TX, offers a lower average salary of $57,941 for City Managers, but the cost of living may be lower as well. Both cities present strong opportunities for career growth and stability.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for City Manager jobs, highlighting Portland, OR with the highest at $165,676 and Austin, TX with the lowest at $57,941.
  1. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $165,676
    In Portland, overseeing the city's needs involves managing diverse urban areas with a focus on green spaces and sustainability. The city's strong emphasis on technology innovation presents a dynamic work environment with prominent companies like Intel and Nike nearby.
    Find City Manager jobs in Portland, OR


  2. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $57,941
    Working in Austin means guiding a vibrant and growing city known for its cultural scene and tech industry. With companies like Dell and Apple having a strong presence, the role includes promoting economic growth and enhancing community life.
    Find City Manager jobs in Austin, TX

What are the best companies a City Manager can work for?

For job seekers aiming for City Manager roles, Peckham & McKenney offers the highest average salary at $262,691. SGR also provides a competitive salary of $211,678, making it another attractive option. These companies highlight excellent opportunities for those in this field seeking rewarding positions.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for City Manager jobs, highlighting Peckham & McKenney with the highest at $262,691 and NSA Storage with the lowest at $47,056.
  1. Peckham & McKenney
    Average Salary: $262,691
    Peckham & McKenney is a firm that offers consulting services to various government entities. The City Manager role involves leading city government operations and ensuring efficient public services. This company primarily operates in major cities across the country.


  2. SGR
    Average Salary: $211,678
    SGR provides strategic guidance and management services for public sector clients. As a City Manager at SGR, one would focus on policy implementation and community development. SGR has a presence in several large urban areas.


  3. West Virginia Department of Transportation
    Average Salary: $63,002
    The West Virginia Department of Transportation seeks City Managers to oversee city infrastructure projects. This role involves coordinating with city officials and managing transportation projects. The company operates throughout the state of West Virginia.


  4. NSA Storage
    Average Salary: $47,056
    NSA Storage is a company specializing in self-storage solutions. City Managers at NSA Storage work on site development and community outreach. NSA Storage operates multiple locations across the United States.

How to earn more as a City Manager?

A City Manager plays a key role in a community. They oversee the city’s operations and help shape its future. Many City Managers wonder how to increase their earnings. Here are ways to boost salary in this role.

First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Many cities offer pay raises for managers with more years of service. Learning new skills can also open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending workshops and earning certifications can be beneficial. For example, a certification in public administration can make a City Manager more attractive to employers. Continuing education can lead to higher roles and better pay.

  1. Get More Experience
  2. Pursue Continuing Education
  3. Specialize in a Field
  4. Take on Leadership Roles
  5. Work in Larger Cities

Specializing in certain areas can also increase earnings. City Managers who focus on finance, infrastructure, or public safety may see higher salaries. These specialized skills can be valuable to cities facing specific challenges. Taking on leadership roles, like overseeing major projects or leading new initiatives, can also boost earnings. Demonstrating leadership can set a City Manager apart from others.

Currently 78 City Manager job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a City Manager in the US?

Learn what a City Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a City Manager today.
Position
Overview
City Manager
78 Job Openings