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Salary

How much does a Payroll Administrator make?

The average salary for a Payroll Administrator is $63,601 per year in the US.

A Payroll Administrator plays a crucial role in ensuring that employees get paid on time. They manage salary payments, benefits, and tax calculations. Their work is essential for maintaining employee satisfaction and company financial stability. The average yearly salary for a Payroll Administrator is about $63,601. This number can vary based on experience, location, and company size.

The salary range for Payroll Administrators can be quite broad. Entry-level positions might start at around $38,000 per year. As professionals gain experience and move into more senior roles, salaries can reach up to $115,000 annually. It's also worth noting that some companies offer additional bonuses or benefits, which can increase the overall compensation package.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Administrator?

Cities like San Francisco and San Jose offer some of the best salaries for Payroll Administrators. These California cities provide attractive compensation packages. Other top-paying areas include Seattle, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. In these locations, Payroll Administrators can expect competitive wages. This reflects the demand and cost of living in these regions. Milwaukee and Denver also provide strong salaries for professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Payroll Administrator jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $86,060 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $72,505.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $86,060
    Working as a payroll specialist in San Francisco means you will be in a tech-driven environment. Many large companies like Salesforce and Uber rely on skilled payroll administrators to manage their employee payments. The competitive salary and the vibrant city life make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Payroll Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $78,695
    In San Jose, payroll administrators often work for top tech firms such as Apple and Google. The city offers a good balance between work and life, with plenty of opportunities for career growth. The cost of living is high, but the salary reflects this.
    Find Payroll Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $74,749
    Seattle's tech scene provides many opportunities for payroll administrators. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are always looking for professionals to handle their payroll needs. The city's lifestyle, with its natural beauty and urban activities, makes it an appealing place to work.
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  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $74,347
    In Washington, DC, payroll administrators often work for government agencies or large corporations. The city's political environment and business sector offer stability and growth opportunities. The average salary is competitive, reflecting the cost of living in the nation's capital.
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  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $74,069
    Los Angeles offers a diverse job market for payroll administrators. With major companies like Disney and Warner Bros., there are many opportunities to grow. The city's entertainment industry also provides a unique work environment.
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  6. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $73,608
    Chicago's economy offers many opportunities for payroll administrators. Companies like Boeing and United Airlines rely on these professionals. The city's vibrant culture and numerous events make it an exciting place to live and work.
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  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $73,512
    Boston has a strong financial sector that provides many job opportunities for payroll administrators. Firms like Fidelity and State Street need skilled professionals to manage their payroll. The city's rich history and educational institutions add to its appeal.
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  8. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $73,313
    San Diego offers a pleasant climate and a strong job market for payroll administrators. Companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms need professionals to handle their payroll. The city's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities make it a great place to live.
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  9. Milwaukee, WI
    Average Salary: $73,041
    Milwaukee provides a stable job market for payroll administrators. Companies like MillerCoors and Harley-Davidson offer good opportunities. The city's affordable cost of living and friendly community make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Payroll Administrator jobs in Milwaukee, WI


  10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $72,505
    Denver's growing tech and healthcare sectors offer many opportunities for payroll administrators. Companies like Denver Health and MongoDB are always looking for skilled professionals. The city's outdoor lifestyle and vibrant arts scene make it a desirable place to work.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Administrator can work for?

Crowe LLP stands out as one of the top employers for Payroll Administrators, offering an average salary of $126,800. Addison Group and Ledgent Finance & Accounting follow closely, with average salaries reaching $85,321 and $73,409, respectively. These companies recognize the value of skilled payroll professionals and reward them with competitive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Payroll Administrator jobs, highlighting Crowe LLP with the highest at $126,800 and Marriott International with the lowest at $54,692.
  1. Crowe LLP
    Average Salary: $126,800
    Crowe LLP offers competitive salaries for Payroll Administrators. They provide various services worldwide, including auditing and tax. Their Payroll Administrators work in many locations, helping ensure accurate payroll processing.


  2. Addison Group
    Average Salary: $85,321
    Addison Group provides rewarding careers for Payroll Administrators. They focus on staffing services for finance and accounting roles. Payroll Administrators at Addison Group help clients with payroll management in several areas, including tech and healthcare.


  3. Ledgent Finance & Accounting
    Average Salary: $73,409
    Ledgent Finance & Accounting pays well for Payroll Administrator roles. They specialize in finance and accounting staffing. Their Payroll Administrators work across many sectors, ensuring smooth payroll operations.


  4. Vaco
    Average Salary: $70,925
    Vaco offers good salaries for Payroll Administrators. They provide staffing solutions for finance and accounting. Payroll Administrators at Vaco help companies manage payrolls efficiently in various locations.


  5. Robert Half
    Average Salary: $70,845
    Robert Half offers attractive salaries for Payroll Administrators. They are a leading staffing firm. Payroll Administrators at Robert Half work in many industries, ensuring accurate payroll processing.


  6. AppleOne
    Average Salary: $70,663
    AppleOne provides competitive wages for Payroll Administrators. They focus on staffing and recruiting. Payroll Administrators at AppleOne assist in payroll processing for various clients in multiple regions.


  7. All City Plumbing
    Average Salary: $60,929
    All City Plumbing offers solid salaries for Payroll Administrators. They provide plumbing, heating, and cooling services. Payroll Administrators at All City Plumbing ensure timely and accurate payroll processing.


  8. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $54,692
    Marriott International offers payroll roles with a competitive salary. They operate hotels worldwide. Payroll Administrators at Marriott International manage payroll for employees in various locations.

How to earn more as a Payroll Administrator?

Payroll Administrators play a crucial role in any organization by ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. For those looking to advance their career and increase their earnings in this field, several strategies can help. Building experience and expertise often leads to higher pay. Certifications can also demonstrate a commitment to the profession and improve job prospects.

Networking with other payroll professionals can provide insights into higher-paying opportunities. Staying updated with the latest payroll software and technologies can make one more valuable to an employer. Additionally, taking on more responsibilities or roles, such as managing a larger payroll team, can lead to a higher salary.

Consider these steps to boost earning potential:

  1. Gain experience and expertise.
  2. Obtain relevant certifications.
  3. Network with other payroll professionals.
  4. Stay updated with the latest payroll technologies.
  5. Take on more responsibilities within the role.

Currently 213 Payroll Administrator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Payroll Administrator in the US?

Learn what a Payroll Administrator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Payroll Administrator today.
Position
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Payroll Administrator
213 Job Openings