How much does a Compliance Specialist make?
A Compliance Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that organizations follow laws and regulations. This profession offers a range of salaries based on experience and location. On average, a Compliance Specialist earns about $69,493 per year. Let's look at how these salaries break down across different levels of experience.
The earnings of Compliance Specialists vary significantly. The lowest-paid specialists, often entry-level, make around $34,000 annually. As experience and expertise grow, so does the salary. Those in the middle of their careers, with several years of experience, often earn between $68,773 and $80,364 per year. Experienced professionals, particularly those in senior roles, can earn between $115,136 and $149,909 each year. These numbers show that there are good opportunities for career growth in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Compliance Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $111,633
In San Francisco, this role often involves ensuring companies comply with complex regulations. Many tech giants, like Salesforce and LinkedIn, employ compliance experts. This position offers a dynamic work environment.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $101,037
In Washington, DC, compliance specialists focus on navigating federal regulations. Government agencies and lobbying firms here offer unique challenges. The work can be both impactful and engaging.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $94,800
Boston offers compliance specialists the chance to work for renowned financial institutions. Companies like State Street and Fidelity seek professionals who understand intricate financial laws. This city brings diverse opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $94,794
San Jose presents a vibrant tech scene for compliance experts. Silicon Valley firms, such as eBay and Cisco, need specialists to stay ahead of tech regulations. The job here is fast-paced and rewarding.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $88,945
In Austin, compliance specialists find a mix of tech and healthcare sectors. Companies like Dell and Seton Healthcare Family look for professionals who can manage multiple regulations. The city's growth offers many career advancements.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $88,344
Raleigh offers a growing market for compliance experts. Companies in finance and technology, such as Red Hat and Progress, need specialists. The city's cost of living is lower, making it an attractive option.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $88,315
Albany provides a government-centric environment for compliance specialists. The state capital employs many who understand local regulations. Working here offers stability and community engagement.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $87,122
In Los Angeles, this role involves diverse industries, from entertainment to healthcare. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and Sony look for compliance experts. The city's diverse culture adds to the work experience.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $85,562
Miami offers a unique blend of finance and hospitality for compliance specialists. Banks and hotels require experts who understand local and federal laws. The city's vibrant atmosphere makes the job enjoyable.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $84,642
Charlotte is known for its banking sector, offering many opportunities for compliance specialists. Companies like Bank of America and Truist look for professionals. The city's growth offers a promising career path.
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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 exciting opportunities for Compliance Specialists across various industries. This global company operates in numerous locations, including the United States, Canada, and the UK. KPMG values its compliance professionals, offering competitive salaries and professional growth.
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Google
Average Salary: $155,366
Google is a top employer for Compliance Specialists, known for its innovative culture and global reach. The company offers roles in various locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. At Google, Compliance Specialists play a key role in ensuring policies are followed.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $151,642
TikTok is a fast-growing company looking for skilled Compliance Specialists. Operating worldwide, TikTok offers dynamic roles in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Compliance Specialists help maintain standards and compliance across the company.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $112,810
Amazon offers many opportunities for Compliance Specialists. This company operates in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Amazon's Compliance Specialists ensure that operations meet all regulatory requirements.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $96,072
L3Harris provides opportunities for Compliance Specialists across the United States. The company focuses on aerospace and defense. Compliance Specialists ensure that all operations adhere to regulations and guidelines.
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Woodward, Inc.
Average Salary: $91,600
Woodward, Inc. offers roles for Compliance Specialists in various locations in the United States. The company specializes in manufacturing control systems and automation. Compliance Specialists ensure all business practices meet regulatory standards.
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U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $84,556
U.S. Bank offers Compliance Specialist roles in the United States. The company provides banking and financial services. Compliance Specialists ensure the bank adheres to all financial regulations and standards.
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The Provident Bank of New Jersey
Average Salary: $79,469
The Provident Bank of New Jersey offers Compliance Specialist roles in the United States. The company provides banking services. Compliance Specialists ensure all banking practices meet legal and regulatory requirements.
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Bethesda Health Group
Average Salary: $78,637
Bethesda Health Group offers Compliance Specialist roles in various locations in the United States. This company provides healthcare services. Compliance Specialists ensure that all health services comply with regulations.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $78,628
The State of Washington offers Compliance Specialist roles in the United States. The state government offers various public services. Compliance Specialists ensure that all state operations meet legal standards.
How to earn more as a Compliance Specialist?
Compliance Specialists can increase their earnings by focusing on specific areas that demonstrate their expertise and value. Building a robust skill set and gaining relevant certifications can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Networking and maintaining professional relationships within the industry can open doors to better-paying roles and companies. Seeking out positions in high-demand industries can also lead to higher salaries. Additionally, taking on leadership roles or specialized areas within compliance can command higher compensation.
Gaining experience in multiple industries can make a Compliance Specialist more versatile and attractive to potential employers. Each industry has its own set of regulations and compliance requirements, and experience in multiple sectors can provide a broader skill set. Staying updated with the latest compliance trends and technologies can also make a Compliance Specialist more valuable to employers. Investing in continuous learning and professional development can lead to better job offers and higher salaries. Lastly, considering relocation to areas with a higher demand for compliance specialists can result in better compensation packages.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Compliance Specialist:
- Obtain relevant certifications and advanced degrees.
- Network within the compliance industry.
- Seek positions in high-demand industries.
- Gain experience in multiple sectors.
- Invest in continuous learning and professional development.



