How much does a Human Resources Specialist make?
Human Resources Specialists play a key role in organizations. They focus on hiring, training, and supporting employees. People in this role often earn a solid salary. The average yearly salary for a Human Resources Specialist stands at $60,815. This is a good income that reflects the importance of their work.
Salaries for Human Resources Specialists can vary. Factors like experience, location, and education impact pay. For example, those with more experience or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Here are some salary ranges for different experience levels:
- Entry-level: $32,000
- Mid-level: $47,545
- Senior-level: $117,500
These figures show that with more experience, Human Resources Specialists can earn more. This career offers good pay and opportunities for growth.
What are the highest paying cities for a Human Resources Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $95,597
In San Francisco, HR professionals work in a thriving tech hub. Companies like Salesforce and Uber offer dynamic roles. The city's innovative environment fosters career growth.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $92,019
San Jose boasts a bustling tech scene, with Apple and Intel among its key players. HR roles here provide opportunities for specialization and advancement. The city's vibrant culture enriches work life.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $90,762
Working in Washington, DC, HR specialists find themselves in a hub of political and government activity. Companies in the area offer roles with impactful work. The city's rich history adds to the work experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $86,110
Seattle's tech industry, led by Amazon and Microsoft, offers exciting HR roles. The city’s progressive environment supports diverse career paths. HR professionals here enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $84,517
In Santa Rosa, HR roles blend the charm of a smaller city with opportunities for growth. Companies like Charles Schwab provide stable and rewarding careers. The local community adds to the quality of life.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,756
Los Angeles provides a vibrant market for HR experts. Working with entertainment giants like Disney and Warner Bros. offers unique challenges. The city's diverse culture enhances work experiences.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $78,938
Charlotte's growing economy provides many opportunities for HR specialists. Banks like Bank of America offer stable roles. The city’s welcoming atmosphere fosters professional development.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $75,937
In Colorado Springs, HR professionals work in a thriving military and tech environment. Companies like Northrop Grumman provide dynamic roles. The scenic surroundings enhance the work experience.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $75,641
Cincinnati offers a mix of traditional and modern HR roles. Companies such as Kroger provide solid career opportunities. The city's strong sense of community enriches work life.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $75,606
San Diego's beautiful climate and strong economy support HR careers. Working with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms offers exciting opportunities. The coastal lifestyle adds to job satisfaction.
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What are the best companies a Human Resources Specialist can work for?

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UC Davis
Average Salary: $87,849
UC Davis offers rewarding careers in Human Resources. They provide roles that focus on employee relations and organizational growth. UC Davis has campuses in California and Arizona.
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City of Cincinnati
Average Salary: $85,758
The City of Cincinnati provides Human Resources Specialists with opportunities to support city employees. They focus on recruiting, training, and employee benefits. Cincinnati is located in Ohio.
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City of Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $81,261
In Columbus, Human Resources Specialists work to improve workplace culture. They handle hiring, training, and employee well-being. This role is based in Ohio's capital city.
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State of Rhode Island
Average Salary: $71,782
The State of Rhode Island offers Human Resources Specialists a chance to work in a supportive environment. They focus on state employee welfare and development. This role is based in the smallest state in the U.S.
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City of Tucson
Average Salary: $69,198
Human Resources Specialists in Tucson support city employees in various departments. They focus on hiring, training, and employee benefits. Tucson is located in Arizona.
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Insperity
Average Salary: $69,114
Insperity provides Human Resources Specialists with a dynamic work environment. They focus on HR services for businesses across the country. Insperity operates nationwide.
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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $67,420
The State of Michigan offers Human Resources Specialists a role in supporting state employees. They focus on hiring, training, and employee benefits. This role is based in Michigan.
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Ultimate Staffing Services
Average Salary: $66,423
Ultimate Staffing Services provides Human Resources Specialists with roles that involve recruiting and training. They focus on placing employees in various industries. They operate across the U.S.
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AppleOne
Average Salary: $64,443
AppleOne offers Human Resources Specialists a chance to work with a leading staffing firm. They focus on employee placement and HR support. AppleOne has offices across the country.
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Baltimore County, MD
Average Salary: $62,019
Human Resources Specialists in Baltimore County work to support county employees. They focus on recruitment, training, and employee benefits. This role is based in Maryland.
How to earn more as a Human Resources Specialist?
Aspiring Human Resources Specialists often seek ways to enhance their earning potential. By focusing on specific factors, HR professionals can increase their salaries and career satisfaction. One key factor involves gaining advanced certifications. Organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offer credentials that can distinguish a candidate and signal expertise to potential employers.
Another crucial factor is accumulating diverse experience. Those who work across different industries can bring a broad range of skills to the table. This versatility makes them more valuable to employers. Additionally, specializing in a niche area, such as talent acquisition or employee relations, can also boost earning potential. Continuing education and staying updated with industry trends also play a role. Those who pursue ongoing learning are better equipped to handle new challenges and can command higher salaries. Lastly, networking within the industry can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Building relationships with peers and attending industry events can lead to job offers that pay more.
To achieve higher earnings, consider these factors:
- Gain advanced certifications
- Accumulate diverse experience
- Specialize in a niche area
- Pursue ongoing education
- Network within the industry



