Position
Salary

How much does a City Manager make?

The average salary for a City Manager is $112,712 per year in the US.

City managers play a key role in local government. They oversee city operations and help set the city's budget. The average yearly salary for a city manager is $112,712. This salary can vary based on the city's size and location. Larger cities often pay more than smaller ones.

City managers can earn between $36,400 and $306,180 a year. Most city managers fall in the middle of this range. The top earners often have more experience or work in larger cities. This job offers a good salary and a chance to make a real difference in the community.

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What are the highest paying cities for a City Manager?

Job seekers looking for City Manager roles can find some of the highest salaries in Portland, OR, where the average salary is $158,704. Miami, FL, offers a competitive average of $90,037, while Honolulu, HI, provides an average salary of $82,099. These cities offer attractive compensation packages for those seeking a career in city management.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for City Manager jobs, highlighting Portland, OR with the highest at $158,704 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $58,769.
  1. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $158,704
    In Portland, leading the city involves managing urban growth and sustainability. The city is known for its strong community focus and progressive policies. Companies like Portland General Electric and Nike influence the local economy.
    Find City Manager jobs in Portland, OR


  2. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $90,037
    Miami offers a dynamic environment for city leadership. The city thrives on tourism and international business. With companies like Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean, the job involves balancing growth with cultural preservation.
    Find City Manager jobs in Miami, FL


  3. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $82,099
    Honolulu provides a unique setting for city management. The focus is on balancing tourism with local culture. The city's economy benefits from companies like Hawaiian Airlines and Alexander & Baldwin, making it a vibrant place to work.
    Find City Manager jobs in Honolulu, HI


  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $81,062
    Seattle is a tech hub, making city management a fast-paced role. The city values innovation and sustainability. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft shape the local economy, offering exciting challenges for city leaders.
    Find City Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $71,354
    Boston offers a rich history and a strong educational sector. City management here involves balancing tradition with modern growth. The presence of companies like General Electric and Liberty Mutual adds to the city's diverse economy.
    Find City Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  6. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $60,430
    Denver provides a growing urban environment with a focus on outdoor activities. City management here involves promoting economic growth and sustainability. The city's economy is supported by companies like Denver International Airport and Ball Corporation.
    Find City Manager jobs in Denver, CO


  7. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $59,989
    Austin is known for its vibrant music scene and tech industry. City management involves fostering innovation and growth. Companies like Dell, Apple, and Google influence the local economy, making it an exciting place to work.
    Find City Manager jobs in Austin, TX


  8. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $58,769
    Chicago offers a diverse urban experience with a strong focus on public services. City management here involves addressing urban challenges and promoting economic growth. The city's economy is supported by companies like Boeing and JPMorgan Chase.
    Find City Manager jobs in Chicago, IL

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

Peckham & McKenney offers the highest salary for City Manager jobs, with an average of $259,020. This company provides a competitive environment for those seeking leadership roles in city management. GovHR USA also offers a strong salary, averaging $198,602, making it another excellent option for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for City Manager jobs, highlighting Peckham & McKenney with the highest at $259,020 and OPPIZI with the lowest at $53,126.
  1. Peckham & McKenney
    Average Salary: $259,020
    Peckham & McKenney offers City Manager jobs with a strong focus on urban development. They operate in major cities across the U.S., providing leadership and strategic planning for local government projects.


  2. GovHR USA
    Average Salary: $198,602
    GovHR USA provides City Manager roles with a focus on human resources and public administration. They work with municipalities nationwide, ensuring efficient and effective governance.


  3. BASE
    Average Salary: $71,462
    BASE offers City Manager jobs with an emphasis on community engagement and sustainability. They operate in several cities, focusing on improving urban living standards.


  4. West Virginia Department of Transportation (WV)
    Average Salary: $65,846
    The West Virginia Department of Transportation provides City Manager roles with a focus on infrastructure and public works. They operate throughout the state, managing transportation projects and urban planning.


  5. Pedalheads
    Average Salary: $58,708
    Pedalheads offers City Manager jobs with a focus on community services and youth development. They operate in various cities, providing programs and services to enhance community well-being.


  6. Azuma Leasing
    Average Salary: $54,455
    Azuma Leasing provides City Manager roles with a focus on property management and urban development. They operate in several cities, managing commercial and residential properties.


  7. OPPIZI
    Average Salary: $53,126
    OPPIZI offers City Manager jobs with a focus on technology and innovation in urban management. They operate in various cities, implementing smart solutions for city services.

How to earn more as a City Manager?

A City Manager plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of a city. This role involves overseeing city staff, managing budgets, and ensuring that city services run efficiently. To earn more in this position, consider the following factors that can enhance your salary and career prospects.

First, gaining experience in various city management roles can lead to higher pay. Managers with a proven track record of success often command higher salaries. Second, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can also increase earning potential. Degrees in public administration or business management are particularly valuable. Third, developing strong leadership skills can make a significant difference. Effective leaders can inspire their teams and drive the city toward its goals. Fourth, networking within the industry can open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help build connections. Lastly, taking on additional responsibilities, such as overseeing large projects or managing multiple departments, can lead to salary increases.

Consider these factors to boost your earnings as a City Manager. With the right combination of experience, education, and skills, you can achieve a higher salary and advance your career.

  1. Gain experience in various city management roles.
  2. Obtain advanced degrees or certifications.
  3. Develop strong leadership skills.
  4. Network within the industry.
  5. Take on additional responsibilities.

Currently 162 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
162 Job Openings