How much does a Payroll Clerk make?
A Payroll Clerk plays a key role in managing employee payments. They handle tasks like calculating wages, distributing paychecks, and ensuring compliance with tax laws. The salary for this role can vary based on experience and location. On average, a Payroll Clerk earns about $59,982 per year. This salary can range from around $32,500 to over $165,000 annually.
Several factors can influence a Payroll Clerk's salary. These include the size of the company, the industry, and the specific duties of the job. For example, those in larger companies or in industries like finance and technology often earn more. Experience also plays a big part. Entry-level clerks may start at the lower end of the salary range, while those with several years of experience can earn more. Location is another important factor. Salaries tend to be higher in areas with a higher cost of living.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Clerk?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $110,346
In Stamford, working as a payroll professional offers stability and growth. Many large companies, like Charter Communications, rely on skilled clerks to manage payroll efficiently. The city's business environment supports career advancement.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $98,042
San Francisco presents a dynamic setting for payroll clerks. With tech giants like Google and Salesforce, professionals here handle complex payroll systems. The city's vibrant economy offers many opportunities for career development.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $93,075
Baltimore provides a unique blend of tradition and modernity for payroll clerks. Working with companies like Under Armour, professionals here manage payroll with a focus on accuracy and efficiency. The city's rich history adds to its appeal.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $87,269
Hartford offers a supportive environment for payroll clerks. With insurance companies like Aetna, professionals here ensure timely and accurate payroll processing. The city's commitment to education and training benefits career growth.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $87,219
Boston's bustling business scene is ideal for payroll clerks. Working with companies like Liberty Mutual, professionals ensure smooth payroll operations. The city's rich history and vibrant culture enhance the work experience.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $83,188
Minneapolis provides a friendly environment for payroll clerks. Companies like Target and U.S. Bank rely on skilled clerks to manage payroll. The city's focus on quality of life supports a balanced work-life experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $83,119
San Jose, at the heart of Silicon Valley, offers exciting opportunities for payroll clerks. Working with tech companies like Intel, professionals here manage complex payroll systems. The city's innovative spirit drives career growth.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $81,545
Detroit offers a unique setting for payroll clerks. With companies like General Motors, professionals here manage payroll with a focus on precision. The city's rich industrial history adds depth to the work experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $79,849
Seattle provides a vibrant environment for payroll clerks. Working with companies like Amazon, professionals ensure accurate payroll processing. The city's focus on technology and innovation supports career advancement.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $79,542
New Orleans offers a lively setting for payroll clerks. With companies like Entergy, professionals manage payroll in a dynamic environment. The city's rich culture and history add to the unique work experience.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Clerk can work for?

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Deloitte
Average Salary: $217,766
Deloitte offers rewarding Payroll Clerk positions. They operate globally, with offices in major cities. Employees enjoy a supportive environment and opportunities for growth.
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PwC
Average Salary: $193,000
PwC provides competitive salaries for Payroll Clerk jobs. They have offices worldwide, offering a dynamic work environment. Employees benefit from professional development and a strong company culture.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $131,732
KPMG offers attractive compensation for Payroll Clerks. They have a global presence with offices in key locations. Employees enjoy a collaborative atmosphere and career advancement opportunities.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $118,571
Intuit provides good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They operate in many locations, offering a modern work environment. Employees benefit from innovative projects and a supportive team.
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Kforce
Average Salary: $80,885
Kforce offers competitive pay for Payroll Clerks. They have offices across the country, providing diverse job opportunities. Employees enjoy a flexible work environment and professional growth.
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High Country Search Group
Average Salary: $80,250
High Country Search Group offers good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They operate in various locations, offering a dynamic work environment. Employees benefit from a supportive team and career development.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $79,417
Vaco provides competitive pay for Payroll Clerks. They have offices in many cities, offering a modern work environment. Employees enjoy a collaborative team and professional growth opportunities.
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LHH Recruitment Solutions
Average Salary: $78,450
LHH Recruitment Solutions offers good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They have offices in various locations, providing a supportive work environment. Employees benefit from career development and a strong company culture.
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PARAMOUNT
Average Salary: $77,333
PARAMOUNT offers competitive pay for Payroll Clerks. They operate in many locations, offering a dynamic work environment. Employees enjoy a collaborative team and professional growth.
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firstPRO Inc.
Average Salary: $73,000
firstPRO Inc. provides good salaries for Payroll Clerks. They have offices in various locations, offering a supportive work environment. Employees benefit from career development and a strong company culture.
How to earn more as a Payroll Clerk?
A Payroll Clerk can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in payroll management can lead to higher-paying positions. Specializing in areas like tax compliance, payroll software, or international payroll can also boost earning potential. Networking with other professionals in the field can open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs or promotions. Continuing education and obtaining certifications can make a Payroll Clerk more valuable to employers. Seeking out roles in industries known for higher salaries, such as finance or technology, can also lead to increased earnings.
Another way to earn more as a Payroll Clerk is to take on additional responsibilities. This can include managing larger teams, overseeing payroll projects, or handling complex payroll issues. Demonstrating the ability to handle these tasks can lead to promotions and higher pay. Staying updated with the latest payroll laws and regulations can also make a Payroll Clerk more indispensable to their employer. This knowledge can lead to increased trust and responsibility, which often come with higher pay. Finally, seeking out roles that offer performance-based bonuses or commissions can provide an additional income stream.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings as a Payroll Clerk:
- Gain experience and expertise in payroll management.
- Specialize in areas like tax compliance, payroll software, or international payroll.
- Network with other professionals in the field.
- Continue education and obtain certifications.
- Seek roles in higher-paying industries.