How much does a Department Manager make?
A Department Manager often oversees a specific area within a company. They coordinate tasks, manage teams, and ensure projects meet their goals. This role can be found across many industries, from retail to finance. With this responsibility, it is natural that Department Managers earn a solid salary.
On average, Department Managers earn about $75,542 per year. This figure reflects the importance of their role in keeping a company running smoothly. Here is a closer look at the salary distribution for Department Managers:
- 10% earn less than $40,727
- 25% earn less than $51,574
- 50% earn less than $84,116
- 75% earn less than $105,810
- 90% earn less than $116,657
What are the highest paying cities for a Department Manager?

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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $100,412
Phoenix offers a vibrant market for department managers, with opportunities in retail giants like Target and Macy's. The city's growing economy and diverse customer base make it a dynamic place to lead a team and drive sales.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $96,593
In Denver, managing a department means tapping into a strong retail sector with companies like Dick's Sporting Goods and Albertsons. The city's unique blend of urban and outdoor culture provides a rich environment for business growth and customer engagement.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $94,783
Charlotte presents a thriving landscape for department managers, with major companies such as Bank of America and Belk. The city's financial sector and retail hubs offer a steady demand for skilled leadership in managing teams and overseeing operations.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $92,542
Austin's innovative spirit and tech industry growth present exciting opportunities for department managers in retail and tech-driven companies. The city's cultural diversity and vibrant community make managing a department both challenging and rewarding.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $91,822
San Diego offers a picturesque setting for department managers, with key employers like Vons and Petco. The city's strong economy and focus on quality of life provide a supportive environment for managing retail teams and achieving sales goals.
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Augusta, GA
Average Salary: $86,071
Augusta provides a stable market for department managers, with opportunities in prominent companies such as Publix and Lowe's. The city's strong community ties and moderate climate create a conducive environment for managing retail operations and leading teams.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $85,340
Minneapolis offers a rich opportunity for department managers in diverse retail sectors, including Target and Cub Foods. The city's robust economy and focus on innovation make it a great place to lead and grow a department.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $81,308
Houston's diverse and expansive market provides ample opportunities for department managers in leading companies like H-E-B and Kroger. The city's dynamic growth and large population offer a vast arena for sales and team management.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $80,944
Los Angeles presents a bustling environment for department managers, with major employers like Vons and Ralphs. The city's entertainment industry and diverse consumer base make managing a department both exciting and demanding.
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El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $77,977
El Paso offers a unique market for department managers, with opportunities in companies such as Walmart and Target. The city's proximity to Mexico and diverse community provide a distinctive setting for leading retail teams and achieving business objectives.
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What are the best companies a Department Manager can work for?

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XPO
Average Salary: $116,308
XPO offers dynamic career opportunities for Department Managers. This company operates across North America, providing logistics solutions. Department Managers at XPO oversee daily operations, ensuring smooth logistics. They work in many locations, including major cities in the U.S. and Canada.
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AAA Cooper Transportation
Average Salary: $95,753
AAA Cooper Transportation is a leading trucking company with various opportunities for Department Managers. They manage freight operations and ensure timely delivery. This company has a strong presence in North America, with hubs in many key locations. Department Managers here play a critical role in coordinating logistics.
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LPL Financial
Average Salary: $92,934
LPL Financial provides top-notch opportunities for Department Managers. They focus on financial services and have a strong reputation. Department Managers work to support financial advisors and ensure client satisfaction. The company operates across the U.S., with branches in major financial centers.
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CACI International Inc
Average Salary: $92,906
CACI International Inc offers rewarding positions for Department Managers. They work in the defense and aerospace sectors. Department Managers here oversee mission-critical operations. The company has offices in major cities across the U.S., offering a dynamic work environment.
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CrossCountry Freight Solutions
Average Salary: $83,472
CrossCountry Freight Solutions provides exciting opportunities for Department Managers. They manage transportation services and ensure customer needs are met. The company operates nationwide, with facilities in key logistical hubs. Department Managers play a crucial role in smooth operations.
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Midwest Motor Express
Average Salary: $81,875
Midwest Motor Express offers competitive salaries for Department Managers. They focus on freight services and have a strong presence across the U.S. Department Managers here oversee logistics and ensure timely delivery. The company's hubs are located in major cities, offering diverse career opportunities.
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AFC Industries
Average Salary: $73,854
AFC Industries provides good opportunities for Department Managers. They work in manufacturing and offer stable positions. Department Managers oversee production and quality control. The company operates in several locations across the U.S., ensuring a steady work environment.
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Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service
Average Salary: $68,000
Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service offers a solid career path for Department Managers. They manage automotive services and focus on customer satisfaction. The company operates in key locations, offering a stable work environment. Department Managers here ensure high-quality service delivery.
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Valvoline Inc.
Average Salary: $52,059
Valvoline Inc provides opportunities for Department Managers in the automotive industry. They oversee maintenance and service operations. The company operates in major cities across the U.S., offering a range of career options. Department Managers play a key role in customer service and operations.
How to earn more as a Department Manager?
Being a Department Manager can lead to a rewarding career with good earning potential. Managers who aim to increase their earnings should focus on certain key factors. These factors can help improve performance and move up the career ladder.
First, gaining experience can lead to higher salaries. Managers with more years in the field usually command higher pay. Continuing education and professional development also help. Certifications and advanced degrees can open doors to higher-paying positions. Building a strong network within the industry can lead to new opportunities. Networking helps to find out about job openings before they are advertised.
Effective communication skills help in managing a team. Managers who can clearly convey expectations and goals see better results. This can lead to higher performance and increased earnings. Here are some key factors for earning more as a Department Manager:
- Gain experience and continue education
- Build a professional network
- Develop strong communication skills
- Focus on team performance and results
- Seek leadership and mentoring opportunities



