How much does a Compliance Specialist make?
A Compliance Specialist ensures that organizations follow laws and regulations. This role is important and it offers a good salary. The average yearly salary for this job is about $69,325. This means most Compliance Specialists earn between $45,591 and $91,955 per year. Salaries vary based on experience, skills, and the industry they work in.
The salary for a Compliance Specialist can depend on several factors. Experience is a big one. Those new to the field start at the lower end of the salary range. As they gain more experience, they can earn more. Education and certifications also play a role. Specialists with higher degrees or specialized training often earn higher salaries. Industry type also affects salary. Those in finance or healthcare usually earn more than those in other fields.
What are the highest paying cities for a Compliance Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $110,175
Working in San Francisco offers a dynamic environment with a focus on tech innovation. Companies like Salesforce and Uber value compliance professionals. They ensure all practices meet legal standards in a competitive market.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $100,093
In Washington, DC, compliance experts play a key role in government and policy-focused firms. Companies such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon rely on compliance specialists to navigate complex regulations. It's a place where policy and practice intersect.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $96,494
San Jose is known for its tech industry, making compliance crucial for companies like Adobe and Intel. Specialists here help businesses maintain ethical standards. The tech sector's rapid growth means compliance work is always in demand.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $95,625
Boston has a strong educational and healthcare sector. Compliance specialists work for companies like Harvard and Beth Israel Lahey Health. They ensure these institutions meet all legal requirements, balancing education and medical care with strict guidelines.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $88,218
In Albany, compliance specialists work in a government-heavy environment. Companies like New York State and government contractors need professionals to ensure adherence to state laws. The role here is vital for maintaining public trust and legal integrity.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $87,319
Austin is a hub for tech companies, and compliance specialists are essential. They work with firms like Dell and Apple to navigate industry regulations. The city's growth means a steady demand for these experts to ensure operations comply with legal standards.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $86,863
Raleigh offers a mix of industries requiring compliance expertise. Companies like Red Hat and IBM need specialists to ensure their practices meet regulatory requirements. It's a place where compliance plays a key role in business operations.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $85,767
Los Angeles has a diverse job market, with compliance specialists needed across sectors. Companies like Disney and Amazon rely on these professionals to ensure their vast operations comply with laws. The entertainment industry adds unique challenges to the role.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $85,182
Boulder offers a unique mix of tech and outdoor industries. Compliance specialists work with companies like Boulder Systems and CH2M. They ensure businesses follow legal standards, balancing innovation with regulatory compliance.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $85,008
Portland is known for its progressive values and strong tech presence. Compliance specialists here work with companies like Nike and Intel. They ensure these businesses meet legal standards, supporting a culture of ethical practices.
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What are the best companies a Compliance Specialist can work for?

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KPMG
Average Salary: $207,854
KPMG offers Compliance Specialist jobs in many areas, including audit, tax, and advisory. They have offices in cities worldwide, including New York, London, and Sydney.
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Google
Average Salary: $154,724
Google provides exciting opportunities for Compliance Specialists. They have offices in many locations, such as California, New York, and Dublin. They focus on ensuring legal and ethical standards.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $151,642
TikTok has Compliance Specialist roles that help maintain safety and integrity on the platform. They operate in Los Angeles, Los Angeles, and Singapore. Compliance is key to their global success.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $110,413
Amazon offers many Compliance Specialist jobs across its global offices. They work in locations like Seattle, New York, and London. Their focus is on upholding policies and regulations.
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TEKsystems
Average Salary: $105,286
TEKsystems provides Compliance Specialist roles with a focus on technology and business solutions. They have offices in Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago. They work to ensure ethical standards in tech projects.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $98,545
L3Harris offers Compliance Specialist jobs in the aerospace and defense sectors. They operate in Melbourne, Orlando, and Singapore. They ensure compliance with military and government regulations.
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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $93,294
Woodward, Inc. has Compliance Specialist roles in Fort Collins and Denver. They focus on manufacturing and control systems. They ensure adherence to industry standards and safety regulations.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $89,668
Wells Fargo offers Compliance Specialist jobs in financial services. They have offices in San Francisco, Charlotte, and Phoenix. They focus on banking regulations and consumer protection.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $83,153
The State of Washington offers Compliance Specialist jobs in various government departments. They operate in Olympia and have a focus on public sector compliance and ethics.
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U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $81,009
U.S. Bank has Compliance Specialist roles in Minneapolis and New York. They focus on financial regulations and ensuring ethical banking practices. They work to maintain trust and integrity in banking.
How to earn more as a Compliance Specialist?
Becoming a Compliance Specialist can open many doors for higher earnings. This role is crucial across many industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. Earning more in this field often requires a blend of experience, education, and skills. Strategic steps can lead to better-paying opportunities.
Consider these factors for increasing earnings:
- Obtain Certifications: Getting certifications such as Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) can boost earning potential. These certifications show dedication and expertise.
- Gain Experience: More years of experience lead to higher salaries. Working in various roles and industries can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Focusing on areas like data privacy, healthcare compliance, or financial regulations can command higher pay. These areas often have more need for specialized skills.
- Pursue Advanced Education: A master's degree in compliance, law, or business can increase salary prospects. Higher education shows a deeper understanding of compliance issues.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Taking on roles such as Compliance Manager or Director can significantly raise earnings. Leadership positions usually come with higher pay and more responsibility.



