How much does a Compliance Specialist make?
A Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that organizations follow laws and regulations. This job is important and comes with a good salary. On average, a Compliance Specialist earns about $68,433 per year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the industry.
The salary for a Compliance Specialist can range widely. The lowest 10% earn around $35,920, while the highest 10% earn over $168,000. Most specialists fall somewhere in the middle. For example, those in the 25th percentile earn about $47,941, while those in the 75th percentile earn around $108,000. This shows that there is a lot of room for growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Compliance Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $95,746
In San Francisco, professionals thrive in a dynamic environment. Companies like tech giants and financial firms value compliance. They ensure all operations meet legal standards.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $94,333
Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of government and private sectors. Compliance roles here focus on regulatory adherence. Many work with federal agencies and large corporations.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $92,318
Boston is known for its rich history and educational institutions. Compliance specialists here often work in healthcare and finance. They ensure companies follow industry regulations.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $91,386
San Jose, home to Silicon Valley, sees many compliance experts in tech. They help companies navigate complex regulations. This city values innovation and compliance.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $87,746
Fort Collins offers a smaller city feel with a strong job market. Compliance roles here focus on environmental and local regulations. Companies value sustainability and legal compliance.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $86,536
Raleigh is a growing tech hub. Compliance specialists here work in various industries. They ensure companies follow state and federal laws, especially in tech and healthcare.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $86,434
Dayton has a mix of manufacturing and tech companies. Compliance roles focus on industry-specific regulations. Professionals here ensure companies meet legal standards.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $85,603
Charlotte is a financial center. Compliance specialists here work in banking and finance. They ensure companies follow strict financial regulations.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $85,465
Austin offers a vibrant tech scene. Compliance roles here focus on tech and healthcare. Professionals ensure companies meet legal standards in a fast-growing market.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $85,105
Boulder is known for its outdoor lifestyle and tech companies. Compliance specialists here work in tech and environmental sectors. They ensure companies follow regulations.
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What are the best companies a Compliance Specialist can work for?

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AES Corporation
Average Salary: $247,700
AES Corporation offers Compliance Specialist jobs with a focus on ensuring regulatory compliance across various sectors. The company operates globally, with major offices in the United States, Latin America, and Europe.
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PwC
Average Salary: $232,500
PwC provides Compliance Specialist roles with a strong emphasis on auditing and advisory services. The company has a global presence, with offices in over 150 countries.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $207,854
KPMG offers Compliance Specialist jobs that focus on risk management and regulatory compliance. The company operates in over 150 countries, providing services across various industries.
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Google
Average Salary: $160,423
Google offers Compliance Specialist roles that focus on data privacy and regulatory compliance. The company operates worldwide, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $150,683
TikTok provides Compliance Specialist jobs with a focus on content moderation and regulatory compliance. The company operates globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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Youtube
Average Salary: $149,750
YouTube offers Compliance Specialist roles that focus on content regulation and community guidelines. The company operates worldwide, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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Apple
Average Salary: $121,174
Apple provides Compliance Specialist jobs that focus on regulatory compliance and data protection. The company operates globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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NOVOGRADAC & COMPANY
Average Salary: $120,000
NOVOGRADAC & COMPANY offers Compliance Specialist roles that focus on regulatory compliance in the real estate and finance sectors. The company operates in the United States, with offices in California, New York, and Washington, D.C.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $113,414
Amazon.com offers Compliance Specialist jobs that focus on regulatory compliance and ethical standards. The company operates globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $113,411
U.S. Bank provides Compliance Specialist roles that focus on financial regulations and risk management. The company operates in the United States, with major offices in Minneapolis, San Francisco, and New York.
How to earn more as a Compliance Specialist?
A Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that organizations follow laws and regulations. This role is crucial, and there are several ways to increase earning potential. By focusing on specific areas, a Compliance Specialist can enhance their career and salary.
Here are some factors that can help a Compliance Specialist earn more:
- Gain More Experience: Experience is a major factor in earning more. Working in the field for several years allows a specialist to understand complex regulations better. This experience can lead to higher-paying positions.
- Obtain Advanced Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) or Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) can boost earning potential. These credentials show a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field.
- Specialize in a High-Demand Area: Specializing in areas like healthcare, finance, or environmental compliance can lead to higher salaries. These areas often have stricter regulations and higher stakes, making specialists in these fields more valuable.
- Pursue Higher Education: A master’s degree in compliance, law, or business can open up higher-paying opportunities. Advanced education provides deeper knowledge and skills that are highly valued by employers.
- Network and Build Professional Relationships: Networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities and salary increases. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can enhance career prospects.



