How much does a Human Resources Manager make?
Human Resources Managers have a vital role in companies. They manage employee relations, hiring, and training. These managers work to create a positive work environment. Their salaries reflect their important work. On average, a Human Resources Manager earns about $69,085 per year. This amount can change based on experience, location, and the size of the company.
Experienced managers often earn more. Those with 10–19 years of experience can make around $91,364 per year. As managers gain more experience, their salaries can go even higher. For instance, managers with 20 or more years of experience can earn up to $128,273 annually. Location also matters. Some states offer higher salaries than others. For example, managers in California and New York often earn more due to the higher cost of living. The type of industry can also affect salary. Larger companies may offer higher pay compared to smaller businesses.
What are the highest paying cities for a Human Resources Manager?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $99,042
In San Jose, HR managers work with tech giants like Intel and Cisco. They focus on recruiting top talent. The tech industry demands skilled HR professionals who can keep up with fast-paced changes.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $95,409
San Francisco offers HR managers a dynamic work environment. They work with companies like Google and Salesforce. The focus is on innovation and employee satisfaction in a competitive market.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $89,007
HR managers in Riverside handle a mix of industries, from education to healthcare. They play a key role in creating a positive workplace culture. The area offers a balanced lifestyle with easy access to nature.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $88,456
In Washington, DC, HR managers often work with government agencies and nonprofits. They focus on compliance and employee engagement. The political environment requires strong communication and relationship-building skills.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $87,852
Seattle’s HR managers work with tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft. They emphasize a collaborative work culture. The city’s innovative spirit drives them to attract and retain top talent.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $87,637
In Hartford, HR managers handle roles in insurance and healthcare. They work with companies like Aetna and Travelers. The focus is on creating a stable and supportive work environment.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $86,739
Visalia offers a smaller-city feel with opportunities in agriculture and manufacturing. HR managers here focus on building strong teams. The community atmosphere allows for close-knit workplace relationships.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $86,223
Boston’s HR managers work with a mix of education, healthcare, and tech firms. They focus on attracting talent to the area’s vibrant economy. The city’s historical charm adds to its professional appeal.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $83,307
In Sacramento, HR managers work with state government and various industries. They focus on public service and community engagement. The city’s central location offers a unique blend of urban and rural opportunities.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $82,596
Stockton offers opportunities in agriculture and healthcare. HR managers here focus on team development and employee retention. The city’s growing economy provides various career paths in a supportive environment.
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What are the best companies a Human Resources Manager can work for?

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Accenture
Average Salary: $190,600
Accenture offers competitive salaries for Human Resources Managers. They work across various industries, providing consulting services globally. Their HR Managers are based in locations such as New York, San Francisco, and Chicago.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $170,312
KPMG provides a robust salary package for HR Managers. This firm operates in multiple sectors, including audit, tax, and advisory services. They have offices in cities like Los Angeles, Boston, and Dallas.
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Groundwork
Average Salary: $160,000
Groundwork offers attractive compensation for HR Managers. They focus on environmental consulting and offer positions in areas such as Austin, Portland, and Philadelphia.
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Panda Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $135,250
Panda Restaurant Group provides a good salary for HR Managers. They are a major restaurant company with locations across the country, including Denver, San Diego, and Miami.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $131,560
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers a competitive salary for HR Managers. They are a leading provider of scientific instruments and serve industries like healthcare and technology. Their HR Managers work in cities such as Waltham, Madison, and Pittsburgh.
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Caterpillar
Average Salary: $130,236
Caterpillar provides solid compensation for HR Managers. They manufacture construction and mining equipment, with offices in Peoria, Chicago, and San Francisco.
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Clark Pacific
Average Salary: $130,190
Clark Pacific offers attractive salaries for HR Managers. They focus on residential and commercial real estate in Hawaii. Their HR Managers work in Honolulu and other key locations in the state.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $129,182
Northrop Grumman provides competitive salaries for HR Managers. They operate in the aerospace and defense sectors, with major offices in Falls Church, Redondo Beach, and Arlington.
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Hawaii State Department of Education
Average Salary: $128,360
The Hawaii State Department of Education offers competitive salaries for HR Managers. They are responsible for public education and have positions across the Hawaiian Islands.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $128,085
BAE Systems USA offers a good salary for HR Managers. They focus on defense and aerospace, with locations in San Diego, Virginia Beach, and other strategic areas.
How to earn more as a Human Resources Manager?
Human Resources Managers have many opportunities to grow their careers and increase their earnings. Being strategic about professional development can lead to higher salaries and more fulfilling roles. Successful HR Managers often focus on a few key areas that boost their earnings and career prospects.
First, gaining additional certifications can make a big difference. HR Managers with specialized certifications, such as SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management - Certified Professional) or PHR (Professional in Human Resources), often command higher salaries. These certifications show a commitment to the profession and can lead to more advanced positions. Continuing education is crucial. HR Managers who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MBA with a focus on Human Resources, can also increase their earning potential. Employers value candidates who have advanced education and can bring a strategic perspective to HR roles.
Experience and expertise in certain areas can also lead to higher earnings. HR Managers who have a proven track record in talent acquisition, employee relations, or performance management may be able to earn more. Networking and building strong relationships within the industry can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Also, HR Managers who transition into executive roles, such as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), often see significant salary increases. Leadership experience and the ability to influence business strategies can lead to higher earnings.
Technology skills are becoming increasingly important. HR Managers who are proficient in HR software, data analysis tools, and other technology platforms can set themselves apart. The ability to use technology to improve HR processes and decision-making can lead to higher salaries. Finally, experience in a variety of industries can make an HR Manager more marketable. Broad experience allows HR Managers to bring a wealth of knowledge to any organization, making them valuable assets.
Investing in these areas can help HR Managers earn more and advance their careers. Certifications, advanced education, experience, technology skills, and industry experience are all factors that can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing your earnings as an HR Manager:
- Obtain relevant certifications, such as SHRM-CP or PHR.
- Pursue advanced degrees, like an MBA with a focus on HR.
- Gain experience in high-demand HR areas, such as talent acquisition or performance management.
- Develop strong technology skills, including HR software and data analysis tools.
- Build industry experience in various sectors to broaden your marketability.



