How much does a Human Resources Manager make?
Human Resources Managers play a key role in companies. They help ensure the workplace is running smoothly. They work on hiring, training, and resolving any issues that arise. Because of their important work, they earn a good salary. On average, Human Resources Managers make about $70,324 per year. This average can vary based on experience and the industry they work in.
Salaries for Human Resources Managers can range quite a bit. The lowest-paid 10% make about $35,016 per year. The top 10% earn around $145,000 annually. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- Top 10%: $145,000
- Top 25%: $105,006
- Middle 20%: $75,010
- Bottom 20%: $55,013
- Bottom 10%: $35,016
What are the highest paying cities for a Human Resources Manager?

-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $102,769
In San Jose, HR Managers enjoy a vibrant tech hub. Companies like Intel and eBay offer dynamic work environments. The focus is on innovation and employee engagement.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in San Jose, CA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $99,204
San Francisco provides HR Managers with a unique work environment. Companies like Google and Salesforce thrive on creativity. HR Managers play a key role in maintaining a positive workplace culture.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $93,070
Seattle offers a blend of tech and nature for HR Managers. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are prominent. The city values work-life balance and diversity.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $90,609
Riverside combines a relaxed lifestyle with corporate opportunities. Companies like Amazon and UPS provide solid career paths. HR Managers here focus on community and employee well-being.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Riverside, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $90,406
Boston's rich history brings a unique charm to HR roles. Companies such as Biogen and Liberty Mutual offer diverse experiences. HR Managers here value education and professional growth.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Boston, MA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $89,906
In Washington, DC, HR Managers work in a political and corporate mix. Companies like Accenture and Lockheed Martin provide a dynamic work environment. The city offers a blend of tradition and modernity.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Washington, DC
-
Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $89,426
Hartford offers a mix of insurance and finance sectors for HR Managers. Companies like Aetna and Travelers are key players. HR Managers here focus on stability and employee development.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Hartford, CT
-
Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $87,390
Visalia provides a smaller city feel with a strong agricultural base. Companies like Farmers Insurance offer a stable environment. HR Managers here focus on community and family values.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Visalia, CA
-
Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $86,776
Stamford combines corporate and financial sectors. Companies like UBS and Blackstone provide robust opportunities. HR Managers here focus on professional development and employee satisfaction.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Stamford, CT
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $86,580
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse work environment for HR Managers. Companies like Amazon and Mattel provide varied experiences. The city values creativity and flexibility.
Find Human Resources Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA
What are the best companies a Human Resources Manager can work for?

-
Amazon
Average Salary: $167,248
Amazon offers exciting opportunities for Human Resources Managers. They have locations across the globe, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. At Amazon, HR Managers help to recruit and retain top talent, ensuring the company remains a great place to work.
-
Groundwork Inc.
Average Salary: $160,000
Groundwork Inc. provides a dynamic environment for HR Managers. Operating in locations such as Chicago and New York, Groundwork focuses on sustainability and green technology. HR Managers here play a key role in shaping company culture and employee development.
-
Primo Brands
Average Salary: $141,824
Primo Brands values its Human Resources Managers highly. With operations in California and Texas, this company is known for its quality products. HR Managers here are responsible for employee engagement and career advancement, contributing to the company's success.
-
Watts Water Technologies
Average Salary: $141,462
Watts Water Technologies offers competitive salaries for HR Managers. Their locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey focus on water technology solutions. HR Managers here support employees with training and development to meet the company's goals.
-
Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $141,050
Northrop Grumman provides excellent opportunities for Human Resources Managers. Based in Virginia and California, this defense company values its workforce. HR Managers here focus on employee benefits and career growth, making it a great place to work.
-
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $137,415
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers rewarding positions for HR Managers. With locations in Massachusetts and California, this company is a leader in scientific instruments. HR Managers here help to develop and retain top talent, supporting the company's mission.
-
Caterpillar Inc.
Average Salary: $132,287
Caterpillar Inc. provides good compensation for HR Managers. Operating in Illinois and Colorado, this company is known for its construction and mining equipment. HR Managers here work on employee engagement and talent management to drive business success.
-
JUDICIARY COURTS OF THE STATE OF HAWAII
Average Salary: $131,349
The Judiciary Courts of the State of Hawaii offer a stable career for HR Managers. Based in Honolulu, this government entity provides opportunities for professional growth. HR Managers here focus on employee relations and support the court system's operations.
-
King County, WA
Average Salary: $130,771
King County, Washington, offers a competitive salary for Human Resources Managers. With offices in Seattle, this government agency provides a range of public services. HR Managers here play a key role in maintaining a skilled and motivated workforce.
-
Boeing
Average Salary: $129,229
Boeing provides excellent opportunities for HR Managers. With locations in Washington and South Carolina, this aerospace company values its employees. HR Managers here help to manage talent and support the company's growth and innovation.
How to earn more as a Human Resources Manager?
If someone wants to earn more as a Human Resources Manager, there are several steps they can take to increase their salary. Focusing on areas of expertise can help someone stand out in the field. Specializing in areas like talent acquisition, employee relations, or compliance can make someone more valuable. Continuing education can also help. Advanced certifications and degrees in HR can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, an SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP can boost credentials.
Networking with other HR professionals can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Attending conferences, joining HR groups, and connecting on LinkedIn can help someone find better opportunities. Gaining experience in different industries can also lead to higher pay. HR managers who have worked in various sectors can command higher salaries. Moving to a location with a higher cost of living can also increase earning potential. Researching and applying for jobs in cities with higher salaries can make a big difference.
Here are five factors that can lead to higher earnings as an HR manager:
- Specialization: Focus on specific areas like talent acquisition or compliance.
- Education: Obtain advanced HR certifications and degrees.
- Networking: Connect with other HR professionals through conferences and groups.
- Industry Experience: Work in various industries to gain diverse experience.
- Location: Consider relocating to areas with higher salaries.



