How much does a Payroll Clerk make?
A Payroll Clerk manages salary and wage payments for an organization. This role often involves working with human resources and accounting. Most Payroll Clerks make between $32,550 and $99,732 a year. The average yearly salary for a Payroll Clerk stands at $63,956. This salary range depends on several factors, including the size of the company and location.
To boost earnings, Payroll Clerks can gain experience and certifications. Larger companies and urban areas often pay more. For example, those in the top 10% of earners make over $126,605 per year. Continuous learning and staying updated with payroll regulations can also increase salary potential. A Payroll Clerk job offers stability and opportunities for growth in the finance sector.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Clerk?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $124,054
Stamford offers a vibrant job market for financial professionals. The presence of major companies like United Technologies and Charter Communications means strong opportunities. Employees enjoy a mix of modern amenities and a welcoming community.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $107,743
Hartford is a hub for insurance companies, providing a solid backdrop for payroll professionals. With giants like Aetna and Travelers Insurance, this city ensures job security. Hartford’s central location makes commuting easy and convenient.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $105,248
San Francisco is known for its tech industry giants like Google and Salesforce. This city offers high salaries and innovative work environments. Professionals enjoy a dynamic lifestyle and plenty of cultural activities.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $100,996
Baltimore boasts a strong employment market in healthcare and finance. Companies such as Johns Hopkins and Legg Mason provide excellent opportunities. The city offers a blend of history and modern conveniences.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $97,290
New Orleans has a unique job scene with opportunities in tourism and finance. Well-known employers include Entergy and Louisiana-Pacific. The city's vibrant culture makes it an attractive place to work and live.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $96,971
Boston is a center for education and healthcare, with employers like Partners Healthcare and Harvard University. This city offers rich history and many professional growth opportunities. Public transportation makes getting around easy.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $96,436
Detroit is a key player in the automotive industry, with companies like Ford and General Motors. This city offers solid job stability and a rich cultural scene. Detroit’s revitalization brings new opportunities for growth.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $96,398
Tallahassee is known for its government jobs and educational institutions. Employers like the Florida Department of Education provide steady positions. The city offers a relaxed pace of life with plenty of outdoor activities.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $94,870
Des Moines serves as a financial center in the Midwest, with companies like Wellmark and Principal Financial Group. This city offers a balanced lifestyle with strong job prospects. It’s a great place for career development.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $94,630
Minneapolis has a strong economy with companies like Target and U.S. Bank. The city offers a high quality of life and plenty of outdoor activities. Professionals enjoy a supportive work environment and community.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Clerk can work for?

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Accenture
Average Salary: $210,979
Accenture offers rewarding opportunities for Payroll Clerks. This company provides services worldwide. They focus on technology and consulting. It is a great place for career growth and learning new skills. Locations include major cities around the world.
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PwC
Average Salary: $202,000
PwC has high-paying jobs for Payroll Clerks. They provide assurance, tax, and consulting services. This company values innovation and teamwork. It operates in many countries, offering diverse experiences.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $174,907
Deloitte offers competitive salaries for Payroll Clerks. They deliver audit, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services. This company emphasizes professional development and a supportive work environment. It has offices in over 150 countries.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $134,200
KPMG provides good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They offer audit, tax, and advisory services. This company focuses on integrity and quality. KPMG has a global presence with offices in many countries.
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Shake Shack
Average Salary: $109,082
Shake Shack offers a vibrant environment for Payroll Clerks. They focus on high-quality food and excellent customer service. This company values team spirit and community. It operates in various locations around the world.
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Addison Group
Average Salary: $83,500
Addison Group provides rewarding opportunities for Payroll Clerks. They specialize in recruiting and staffing services. This company offers a dynamic work environment with growth opportunities. It operates in multiple locations.
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AHRC NASSAU
Average Salary: $79,522
AHRC NASSAU offers competitive pay for Payroll Clerks. They focus on healthcare and human services. This company values compassion and dedication. It operates in Nassau, Bahamas.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $77,396
Vaco provides good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They focus on staffing and recruitment services. This company values teamwork and client satisfaction. It operates in multiple locations.
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Angi
Average Salary: $76,611
Angi offers rewarding opportunities for Payroll Clerks. They provide home services and online marketplace services. This company values innovation and customer focus. It operates in the United States.
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Southland Industries
Average Salary: $71,476
Southland Industries provides good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They focus on manufacturing and distribution. This company values quality and customer service. It operates in multiple locations.
How to earn more as a Payroll Clerk?
A Payroll Clerk can find multiple ways to increase their earnings. Experience, skills, and additional qualifications can make a big difference. Focus on areas that improve job performance and open up higher-paying opportunities. These strategies can help someone earn more while doing a job they enjoy.
Here are some ways to earn more as a Payroll Clerk:
- Gain more experience: Working longer in the field brings more skills and knowledge. With experience, a Payroll Clerk may handle more complex tasks. This can lead to higher pay.
- Get certified: Professional certifications can show a strong understanding of payroll. These can include certifications from the American Payroll Association (APA) or the Payroll Management International (PMI). Such credentials can lead to better job offers and higher salaries.
- Learn new software: Familiarity with payroll software can make a Payroll Clerk more valuable. Knowing multiple systems means a Clerk can adapt to different work environments. This can open doors to roles that pay more.
- Develop strong communication skills: Being able to clearly communicate with management and employees is crucial. Good communication can lead to better job performance and more trust from employers. This can result in raises and promotions.
- Pursue advanced education: A degree in business, accounting, or a related field can help. Some companies prefer or require a formal education for higher-paying positions. An advanced degree can lead to better-paying roles.



