How much does a Payroll Administrator make?
Payroll administrators play a vital role in ensuring employees get paid correctly and on time. These professionals manage salary, taxes, and benefits for a company. The average yearly salary for this job is around $62,396. This figure can help job seekers understand the financial reward of entering this career field.
Here are some details about payroll administrators' salaries:
- The lowest 10% of payroll administrators earn less than $36,230.
- About 25% of payroll administrators earn between $36,230 and $43,452.
- The median salary, or the midpoint, is $50,674. This means half of payroll administrators earn more, and half earn less.
- The highest-paid 10% of payroll administrators make over $101,226 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Administrator?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $90,768
In San Francisco, this role offers a chance to work with tech giants such as Google and Salesforce. Professionals here handle payroll with an emphasis on technology and innovation. The city's competitive salary for this job reflects its high cost of living.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $76,769
Working in Washington, DC, this position often involves government agencies and non-profits. Employees here manage payroll with a focus on compliance and accuracy. The area's robust economy and high salaries are attractive to many.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $76,479
In Silicon Valley, this job puts you at the heart of the tech industry. Companies like Intel and Cisco provide opportunities to manage payroll for a diverse workforce. The city's tech-driven culture makes it a hub for innovation in payroll administration.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $75,152
Chicago offers a mix of finance, manufacturing, and service sectors. Professionals in this role support businesses in these industries. The city's rich history and diverse economy provide a dynamic environment for payroll work.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $75,097
In Baltimore, this role supports a variety of sectors, including healthcare and education. Working with companies like Johns Hopkins, professionals here manage payroll with a focus on precision. The city's vibrant community offers a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $74,883
Boston's rich history in education and healthcare offers unique challenges. Working for institutions like Harvard, payroll professionals here focus on managing complex payroll needs. The city's academic and historical significance make it a compelling place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $74,664
Seattle's tech industry, led by companies like Amazon and Microsoft, provides exciting opportunities. Professionals here manage payroll with a tech-savvy approach. The city's progressive culture and natural beauty offer a great work-life balance.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $74,002
In Los Angeles, this role involves managing payroll for a diverse range of industries, including entertainment and aerospace. Working for companies like SpaceX and Universal Studios, professionals here ensure accuracy and timeliness. The city's entertainment industry offers a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $72,776
San Diego's blend of military, biotech, and tourism sectors provides varied opportunities. Professionals here manage payroll with a focus on both stability and growth. The city's beautiful weather and quality of life make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $72,561
In Milwaukee, this role often involves manufacturing and healthcare. Companies like Johnson Controls and Froedtert provide stable environments. The city's manufacturing heritage offers a grounded approach to payroll administration.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Administrator can work for?

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Crowe LLP
Average Salary: $126,800
Crowe LLP offers competitive salaries for Payroll Administrators. They work with clients across the country, including major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. Their Payroll Administrators handle a variety of payroll tasks and ensure compliance with regulations.
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Addison Group
Average Salary: $81,115
Addison Group provides solid pay for Payroll Administrators. They serve industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology. Their Payroll Administrators manage payroll systems and assist with employee benefits.
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Ledgent Finance & Accounting
Average Salary: $73,409
Ledgent Finance & Accounting offers good salaries for Payroll Administrators. They work in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and retail. Their Payroll Administrators ensure accurate and timely payroll processing.
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Robert Half
Average Salary: $69,977
Robert Half provides a strong compensation package for Payroll Administrators. They serve a range of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. Their Payroll Administrators manage payroll systems and assist with payroll-related inquiries.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $68,670
Vaco offers competitive salaries for Payroll Administrators. They work in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Their Payroll Administrators handle payroll processing and ensure compliance with labor laws.
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AppleOne
Average Salary: $68,071
AppleOne provides good pay for Payroll Administrators. They serve sectors like finance, healthcare, and technology. Their Payroll Administrators manage payroll systems and assist with payroll-related tasks.
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All City Plumbing
Average Salary: $61,077
All City Plumbing offers competitive salaries for Payroll Administrators. They serve clients in the plumbing and HVAC industry. Their Payroll Administrators handle payroll processing and ensure timely payments to employees.
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Marriott International
Average Salary: $54,615
Marriott International provides a solid compensation package for Payroll Administrators. They operate hotels and resorts worldwide. Their Payroll Administrators manage payroll systems and assist with payroll-related inquiries.
How to earn more as a Payroll Administrator?
A Payroll Administrator plays a critical role in any organization. They ensure that employees receive their pay on time and accurately. If you want to earn more in this role, there are several steps you can take. Focus on gaining new skills and credentials. This will make you more valuable to potential employers. Look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities. This can lead to a higher salary. Networking with other professionals in your field can open up new job opportunities. Consider moving to a company that offers higher pay for similar work. Lastly, always be ready to negotiate your salary when offered a new job.
Here are five factors to help increase your earnings as a Payroll Administrator:
- Get Certified: Obtain certifications like CPF or CPP. This will boost your resume and make you more attractive to employers.
- Expand Your Skills: Learn new payroll software or improve your understanding of tax laws. This will make you more valuable.
- Seek Leadership Roles: Take on roles that involve managing a team or overseeing payroll processes. These positions often come with higher pay.
- Network Actively: Join professional groups and attend industry events. This can lead to job opportunities that offer better pay.
- Look for Better Opportunities: Research companies that offer higher salaries for Payroll Administrators. Being open to new opportunities can lead to a better-paying job.



