How much does a Department Manager make?
Department managers work hard to ensure their teams run smoothly. They earn a solid salary for their efforts. On average, department managers make around $57,055 a year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of company they work for.
Most department managers make between $44,198 and $72,393 annually. This range shows that with more experience, they can earn more. An entry-level manager might start at the lower end. Over time, as they gain skills and oversee larger teams, they can move up the salary scale. A well-established manager might reach the higher end or even more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Department Manager?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $99,689
In Los Angeles, overseeing a department brings a fast-paced environment. The city is home to large companies like Amazon and Sony. Managers here need to stay on top of trends and lead dynamic teams.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $88,499
Orlando offers a unique mix of tourism and business. Managers here often work with companies like Disney and Universal. They need to balance customer service with business goals in this vibrant city.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $87,328
Richmond is known for its rich history and diverse industries. Department managers here might lead teams at companies like Altria or Dominion Energy. The city provides a blend of challenges and opportunities.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $86,408
Baton Rouge offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Managers here might work at places like ExxonMobil or Entergy. The city values teamwork and community, making it a great place to lead a department.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $81,384
Phoenix is a city with a growing business scene. Managers here might oversee operations at companies like Intel or Freeport-McMoRan. The warm climate and expanding job market present many opportunities.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $79,373
Santa Rosa, nestled in wine country, provides a serene environment for business. Managers here might work at places like Marriott or Charles Schwab. The city values both innovation and a relaxed lifestyle.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $78,912
Austin is known for its tech and music scenes. Managers here might lead teams at companies like Dell or Apple. The city offers a dynamic work environment with a strong sense of community.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $77,013
Houston is a major business hub. Managers here might oversee operations at companies like ExxonMobil or Boeing. The city offers a mix of challenges and growth opportunities in a booming economy.
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Augusta, GA
Average Salary: $76,150
Augusta offers a blend of history and modern business. Managers here might lead teams at companies like Aflac or Augusta University. The city values tradition while embracing new opportunities.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $74,216
Charlotte is known as a financial center. Managers here might work at companies like Bank of America or Wells Fargo. The city offers a blend of stability and growth in the finance industry.
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What are the best companies a Department Manager can work for?

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Google
Average Salary: $216,000
Google offers exciting opportunities for Department Managers with locations around the world. Google fosters innovation and creativity. It operates in many locations, including Mountain View, California, and other cities globally.
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XPO
Average Salary: $111,981
At XPO, Department Managers can expect competitive pay and a dynamic work environment. The company is active in logistics and transportation. It operates in many locations, including Connecticut and other states across the United States.
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AAA Cooper Transportation
Average Salary: $100,160
AAA Cooper Transportation offers a rewarding career for Department Managers. It is a leader in the transportation industry. The company operates in several states, including Georgia and North Carolina.
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LPL Financial
Average Salary: $94,364
LPL Financial provides excellent opportunities for Department Managers. It focuses on financial services. The company operates in various locations, including San Diego, California, and Boston, Massachusetts.
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CrossCountry Freight Solutions
Average Salary: $84,844
CrossCountry Freight Solutions offers good pay for Department Managers. It is involved in logistics and transportation. The company operates in many states, including Illinois and Texas.
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Midwest Motor Express, Inc.
Average Salary: $80,625
Midwest Motor Express, Inc. provides a stable career for Department Managers. It operates in the transportation sector. The company has locations in states such as Ohio and Michigan.
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Bob's Discount Furniture
Average Salary: $69,511
Bob's Discount Furniture offers a good salary for Department Managers. It specializes in furniture retail. The company operates in several locations, including Florida and Georgia.
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Signet Jewelers
Average Salary: $61,576
Signet Jewelers provides various opportunities for Department Managers. It is a leader in jewelry retail. The company has locations in many cities, including New York and Chicago.
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Valvoline Express Care
Average Salary: $56,796
Valvoline Express Care offers a decent salary for Department Managers. It focuses on automotive services. The company operates in several states, including Pennsylvania and Ohio.
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Valvoline Instant Oil Change
Average Salary: $54,515
Valvoline Instant Oil Change provides opportunities for Department Managers. It specializes in oil change services. The company has locations in many states, including California and Texas.
How to earn more as a Department Manager?
Increasing your salary as a Department Manager involves a mix of skills, experience, and strategic decisions. A good manager knows how to lead a team effectively, boost productivity, and manage budgets. By focusing on these key areas, one can position themselves for a higher earning potential.
First, developing strong leadership skills can make a significant difference. Managers who can inspire and motivate their teams often see better results, which can lead to salary increases. Good managers also manage conflicts well and create a positive work environment. This makes the workplace more enjoyable and productive. Next, gaining more experience in the field can lead to higher earnings. Managers with a proven track record of success can command higher salaries. Experience brings confidence and a deeper understanding of business operations.
A manager must also focus on increasing department efficiency and productivity. By improving processes and cutting costs, a manager can show their value to the company. This can lead to salary negotiations and raises. It is also important to stay updated with the latest industry trends. Managers who can adapt to new technologies and methods are more valuable. They can bring fresh ideas to the table and improve the department's performance. Lastly, networking and building professional relationships can open up more opportunities. Attending industry events and joining professional groups can lead to new job offers and salary increases.
Here are five factors that can help a Department Manager earn more:
- Leadership Skills: Inspire and motivate the team to boost productivity.
- Experience: A proven track record of success can command higher salaries.
- Efficiency: Improve department efficiency and cut costs to show value.
- Industry Trends: Stay updated and adapt to new technologies and methods.
- Networking: Build professional relationships to open up new opportunities.



