How much does a Compliance Specialist make?
A Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that organizations follow laws and regulations. This important job comes with a good salary. On average, a Compliance Specialist earns about $67,209 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
The salary for Compliance Specialists can range widely. At the lower end, some professionals earn around $35,850 annually. As experience grows, salaries can climb to over $145,000 per year. Many factors influence these numbers, including the size of the company and the complexity of the regulations involved. Companies in finance and healthcare often offer higher salaries due to the critical nature of compliance in these fields.
What are the highest paying cities for a Compliance Specialist?

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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $95,805
In Hartford, professionals in regulatory roles ensure compliance with state laws. Many work for insurance companies like Aetna. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $92,951
San Jose is a tech hub where compliance experts help companies like Google and Apple meet industry standards. The city offers a vibrant community and diverse job opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $91,918
In San Francisco, compliance specialists work in a dynamic environment, often for tech firms like Salesforce and Uber. The city's progressive culture supports innovative work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $89,854
Washington, DC, offers a political environment where compliance experts play a key role. Many work in government or for firms like Deloitte. The city's rich history adds to its appeal.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $89,567
Dayton provides a stable environment for compliance professionals. Companies like Boeing and Wright-Patterson AFB need their expertise. The city offers a lower cost of living and a strong community.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $88,162
Fort Collins is known for its outdoor lifestyle and has a growing tech sector. Compliance experts here often work for companies like Lockheed Martin. The city offers a high quality of life.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $86,434
Boston offers a mix of historic charm and modern opportunities. Compliance specialists often work for financial firms like State Street and Fidelity. The city's educational institutions add to its appeal.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $84,083
Charlotte is a financial center where compliance experts are in demand. Companies like Bank of America and Wells Fargo need their skills. The city offers a growing job market and a pleasant climate.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $81,692
In Albany, compliance professionals help ensure state agencies meet regulations. The city offers a mix of government and private sector jobs. It's a great place for those who enjoy a historic setting.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $79,375
Grand Rapids offers a mix of manufacturing and healthcare opportunities. Compliance experts here often work for companies like Amway and Spectrum Health. The city has a lower cost of living and a strong community feel.
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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. They operate globally, with major locations in the U.S., Latin America, and Europe.
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PwC
Average Salary: $232,500
PwC provides a dynamic environment for Compliance Specialists. They work on complex compliance projects for clients in multiple industries. PwC has offices in over 150 countries.
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Google
Average Salary: $155,200
At Google, Compliance Specialists play a key role in maintaining ethical standards and regulatory compliance. They work in various locations, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Youtube
Average Salary: $148,308
YouTube offers Compliance Specialist jobs that focus on content regulation and user privacy. They operate worldwide, with headquarters in the U.S. and offices in Europe and Asia.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $139,892
TikTok provides Compliance Specialist roles that involve ensuring content compliance and user safety. They have offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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NOVOGRADAC & COMPANY
Average Salary: $120,000
NOVOGRADAC & COMPANY offers Compliance Specialist jobs focused on regulatory compliance in the real estate and finance sectors. They operate primarily in the U.S.
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Apple
Average Salary: $118,610
Apple provides Compliance Specialist roles that focus on ensuring compliance with international regulations. They operate globally, with major locations in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $117,721
Amazon.com offers Compliance Specialist jobs that focus on regulatory compliance and ethical standards. They operate worldwide, with major locations in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $114,994
U.S. Bank provides Compliance Specialist roles that focus on ensuring regulatory compliance in the banking sector. They operate primarily in the U.S.
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PSEG
Average Salary: $114,200
PSEG offers Compliance Specialist jobs that focus on regulatory compliance in the energy sector. They operate primarily in the U.S.
How to earn more as a Compliance Specialist?
A Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that companies follow laws and regulations. This role is crucial, and there are several ways to increase earning potential in this field. By focusing on certain 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 and handle more responsibilities.
- Obtain Advanced Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) or Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) can boost earning potential. These certifications show a higher level of expertise.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Specializing in areas like healthcare compliance, financial compliance, or data protection can lead to higher salaries. These areas often have more stringent regulations and require specialized knowledge.
- Network and Build Relationships: Building a strong professional network can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help in finding better job prospects.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership roles such as Compliance Manager or Director can lead to higher salaries. These roles involve overseeing compliance programs and managing teams, which often come with higher pay.