How much does a Payroll Clerk make?
Payroll clerks handle important tasks in many businesses. They ensure employees get paid on time and correctly. This job can offer stable earnings. The average yearly salary for a payroll clerk is about $64,348. With more experience and skill, a payroll clerk can earn more.
Most payroll clerks earn between $45,055 and $81,728 a year. This range shows a lot of potential for growth. Clerks in larger companies or with special skills often earn more. Here are some of the common salaries:
- $45,055 for those just starting out
- $81,728 for those with some experience
- $142,851 for top earners
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Clerk?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $125,217
Stamford offers a vibrant job market for finance professionals. Major firms like Charter Communications and United Technologies provide stable roles. These companies value skilled payroll experts.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $109,764
In Hartford, payroll clerks find great opportunities. Companies like Travelers and Aetna depend on accurate payroll processing. These roles come with competitive benefits.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $104,829
San Francisco is home to tech giants like Google and Salesforce. Payroll clerks here enjoy dynamic work environments. They play a key role in ensuring timely compensation for employees.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $102,020
Baltimore offers a mix of industries for payroll specialists. Johns Hopkins and Under Armour require skilled personnel. Working here means being part of a thriving local economy.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $98,169
Detroit has a strong automotive industry. Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler need payroll experts. These roles offer stability and growth opportunities in a key sector.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $96,808
Boston's finance sector thrives with banks and financial firms. Payroll clerks here enjoy a fast-paced environment. Working with top institutions can lead to career advancement.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $96,398
Tallahassee offers a blend of government and private sector jobs. State agencies and companies like Bank of America provide good opportunities. The role here ensures smooth payroll processes.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $95,321
New Orleans is a city with rich culture and opportunity. Companies like Entergy and Freeport-McMoRan need payroll experts. Working here means being part of a unique community.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $93,226
Minneapolis has a strong finance and insurance sector. UnitedHealth Group and Target offer good roles. These positions provide stability and good benefits.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $92,506
Chicago offers many opportunities for payroll clerks. Companies like Boeing and Exelon need skilled professionals. Working here means being part of a major economic hub.
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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 competitive salaries for Payroll Clerks, with locations worldwide. They handle payroll for many clients, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
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PwC
Average Salary: $202,000
PwC provides a robust salary for Payroll Clerks. They work in many cities globally, ensuring clients receive accurate and timely payroll services.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $174,907
Deloitte offers a strong salary for Payroll Clerks, operating in numerous cities. They focus on precise payroll management for clients across the globe.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $133,279
KPMG pays well for Payroll Clerks, with offices in many countries. They handle payroll with accuracy, providing peace of mind to their clients.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $123,692
Intuit offers a solid salary for Payroll Clerks, with headquarters in California. They focus on financial software, ensuring their payroll services are top-notch.
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Shake Shack
Average Salary: $109,082
Shake Shack provides a good salary for Payroll Clerks, with locations in multiple cities. They offer a unique work environment with a strong commitment to employee well-being.
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Addison Group
Average Salary: $81,846
Addison Group offers a fair salary for Payroll Clerks, with offices in various cities. They focus on connecting skilled professionals with great job opportunities.
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High Country Search Group
Average Salary: $81,694
High Country Search Group provides a decent salary for Payroll Clerks, with locations in different states. They specialize in finding the right fit for job seekers and companies.
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LHH Recruitment Solutions
Average Salary: $78,833
LHH Recruitment Solutions offers a competitive salary for Payroll Clerks, with offices across the country. They focus on matching candidates with the right roles.
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AHRC NASSAU
Average Salary: $78,384
AHRC NASSAU provides a fair salary for Payroll Clerks, with offices in New York. They focus on providing excellent services to their clients and employees.
How to earn more as a Payroll Clerk?
A Payroll Clerk can take several steps to increase their earnings. Working in payroll means handling the finances for an organization's employees. This role is important, but pay can often seem limited. However, there are ways to earn more.
First, gaining experience helps. Payroll Clerks with more time in the field tend to earn more. Experience allows them to handle tasks more quickly and accurately. It also opens up the chance for promotions. Second, certifications can make a big difference. Programs like the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) show skill and knowledge. Many employers pay more for workers who have these credentials.
Next, expanding knowledge of payroll software can help. Payroll Clerks who know many types of software can work faster. This saves time and increases efficiency. Software skills often lead to higher pay. Fourth, taking on more responsibility can increase income. This could mean managing a larger payroll or overseeing more employees. Employers often reward these added duties with a raise. Finally, seeking out higher-paying jobs in larger companies can also help. Bigger organizations often offer better salaries. They may also have more room for advancement.
Payroll Clerks can increase their earnings by:
- Gaining more experience
- Getting relevant certifications
- Learning more payroll software
- Taking on more responsibilities
- Seeking higher-paying jobs



