How much does a Compliance Specialist make?
A Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that companies follow laws and regulations. If you are considering this job, understanding the salary can help you make informed decisions. On average, a Compliance Specialist makes about $71,474 per year. This average covers different experience levels and industries.
Looking at the salary breakdown, it shows that some Compliance Specialists earn less while others earn more. Here’s a quick look at the range of salaries:
- The lowest 10% earn about $35,000 annually.
- The next 10% earn about $45,891.
- The highest 10% earn around $154,800 or more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Compliance Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $107,478
In San Francisco, a Compliance Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring that businesses follow all regulations and legal standards. Many tech giants and startups offer roles that demand strong attention to detail and knowledge of industry-specific laws.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $106,847
Working in Washington, DC, a Compliance Specialist helps organizations navigate the complex regulatory environment. The city's political landscape often brings in roles with federal agencies, requiring a deep understanding of national laws.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $99,894
San Jose, with its vibrant tech scene, offers numerous opportunities for Compliance Specialists. They work to ensure companies adhere to industry regulations and maintain high ethical standards in their operations.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $98,912
Hartford provides a mix of financial and insurance companies where Compliance Specialists are in demand. They focus on ensuring companies comply with state and federal regulations, making it a stable career choice.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $92,700
Seattle's growing tech industry creates a need for Compliance Specialists who can help companies follow laws and regulations. The city's focus on innovation requires these professionals to stay updated on new industry standards.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $90,687
In Charlotte, Compliance Specialists often work in the banking and financial sectors. They play a key role in ensuring that institutions adhere to financial regulations, offering a steady career with good opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $88,592
Boston offers many opportunities for Compliance Specialists in healthcare and financial services. They ensure companies comply with regulations, maintaining high ethical standards and protecting the company's reputation.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $88,413
Austin's tech and startup scene creates a dynamic environment for Compliance Specialists. They ensure companies follow laws and regulations while supporting the fast-paced growth of businesses.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $86,490
Grand Rapids offers a more relaxed pace with opportunities in manufacturing and healthcare. Compliance Specialists here ensure companies follow local and national regulations, providing stability and growth.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $86,365
San Diego's diverse economy includes tech, defense, and healthcare, where Compliance Specialists are essential. They help ensure companies adhere to regulations, supporting the city's varied industries.
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What are the best companies a Compliance Specialist can work for?

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Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Average Salary: $174,368
At AWS, Compliance Specialists play a key role in ensuring our services meet all regulatory requirements. AWS operates globally, with major offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. They value strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
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Google
Average Salary: $166,803
Google offers Compliance Specialists the chance to work in a cutting-edge environment. With offices worldwide, they focus on data protection and privacy. They seek individuals who can navigate complex regulations with ease.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $148,029
TikTok is known for its vibrant culture and offers Compliance Specialists a fast-paced environment. They have offices in Los Angeles, New York, and London. They look for detail-oriented professionals who can keep up with rapid changes.
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Amazon
Average Salary: $129,857
Amazon provides a dynamic setting for Compliance Specialists. With operations in many countries, they focus on ensuring compliance with local laws. Amazon values problem solvers who can adapt quickly.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $115,679
At Boeing, Compliance Specialists work in the aerospace industry. They operate globally, with offices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. They seek individuals with a strong background in aerospace regulations.
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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $113,683
Woodward, Inc. is a technology company that values compliance. They have offices across the U.S. and Europe. They look for Compliance Specialists who can ensure adherence to industry standards.
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American Electric Power
Average Salary: $113,097
American Electric Power, a major utility company, offers Compliance Specialists roles focused on energy regulations. They operate across the U.S. They seek professionals with a strong understanding of energy laws.
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L3Harris Technologies
Average Salary: $100,243
L3Harris Technologies is a defense contractor that employs Compliance Specialists to ensure compliance with government regulations. They have offices in North America and Europe. They value candidates with defense industry experience.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $96,383
Deloitte provides Compliance Specialists with a variety of opportunities across multiple industries. With offices worldwide, they focus on risk management and regulatory compliance. They seek detail-oriented professionals.
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Regeneron
Average Salary: $89,283
Regeneron is a biotechnology company that employs Compliance Specialists to ensure adherence to healthcare regulations. They have offices in the U.S. and Europe. They value candidates with experience in biotech compliance.
How to earn more as a Compliance Specialist?
A Compliance Specialist can earn more by focusing on key areas of professional development. Enhancing skills and staying current with industry changes often leads to higher pay and better job opportunities. Networking with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying positions and promotions.
To increase earnings, consider these important factors:
- Certifications: Gaining certifications such as Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) can increase earning potential.
- Experience: More years of experience usually lead to higher pay. Look for roles that offer growth opportunities.
- Education: Pursuing higher education, such as a Master’s degree in compliance or law, can lead to higher-paying roles.
- Specialization: Focusing on a niche area, such as healthcare or financial compliance, can make a specialist more valuable.
- Networking: Connecting with others in the field can lead to new job opportunities and higher salaries.



