How much does a Payroll Clerk make?
A Payroll Clerk plays a key role in ensuring that employees receive their wages on time. This job involves managing payroll records, calculating wages, and distributing paychecks. The average yearly salary for a Payroll Clerk is around $65,163. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company.
Payroll Clerks can earn different amounts depending on their experience and the industry they work in. For example, a new Payroll Clerk might start with a salary around $33,000. As they gain more experience, their salary can increase. Top earners in this field can make over $200,000 a year. Factors like location and company size also affect salary. Urban areas with a higher cost of living often offer higher salaries. Larger companies may also provide more competitive pay packages.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Clerk?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $124,895
In Stamford, working in payroll offers a stable environment with many financial firms. Companies like Charter Communications and United Technologies provide great opportunities. The city's business-friendly atmosphere supports career growth.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $104,871
Tallahassee provides a vibrant setting for payroll professionals. With state government and educational institutions, there are many job options. Working here means being part of a community that values public service.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $104,009
San Francisco is a dynamic place for payroll specialists. Tech giants like Google and Salesforce create many job openings. The city offers a fast-paced environment with lots of career advancement.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $101,485
Hartford is known for its insurance companies, making it a great place for payroll clerks. Firms such as Aetna and Travelers offer stable jobs. The city's rich history and culture add to the work experience.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $98,279
Baltimore provides a mix of industries for payroll workers. With healthcare and finance sectors, there are diverse job opportunities. The city's vibrant arts scene makes it an enjoyable place to live and work.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $95,197
Boston offers a historic setting with many job options for payroll clerks. Financial institutions and educational organizations provide steady employment. The city's rich culture enhances the work experience.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $94,042
Detroit is a hub for automotive industry jobs, offering many payroll positions. Companies like General Motors and Ford provide excellent career opportunities. The city's revitalization adds to its appeal.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $92,498
Minneapolis offers a blend of business and nature for payroll professionals. Companies like Target and U.S. Bank create many job openings. The city's parks and lakes provide a great work-life balance.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $90,500
Cincinnati provides a friendly environment for payroll specialists. With companies like Procter & Gamble and Kroger, there are many job opportunities. The city's affordable cost of living makes it attractive.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $89,270
New Orleans offers a unique culture for payroll workers. With tourism and healthcare sectors, there are diverse job options. The city's vibrant music and festivals add to the work experience.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Clerk can work for?

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Accenture
Average Salary: $212,550
Accenture offers competitive salaries for Payroll Clerks. They provide opportunities in various locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. Accenture values its employees and offers a supportive work environment.
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PwC
Average Salary: $196,375
PwC is known for its strong compensation packages. Payroll Clerks at PwC can expect to work in major cities across the globe. The company emphasizes professional growth and offers many development opportunities.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $194,780
Deloitte provides attractive salaries for Payroll Clerks. They operate in numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Deloitte focuses on employee well-being and offers a dynamic work culture.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $133,293
KPMG offers a good salary for Payroll Clerks. They have offices in many countries, including the United States, Australia, and the Netherlands. KPMG values teamwork and offers a collaborative work environment.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $123,692
Intuit provides competitive pay for Payroll Clerks. They operate in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Intuit is known for its innovative approach and employee-friendly policies.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $81,100
Vaco offers a solid salary for Payroll Clerks. They have offices in the United States and Canada. Vaco focuses on providing a positive work experience and offers various career advancement opportunities.
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High Country Search Group
Average Salary: $80,781
High Country Search Group offers a good salary for Payroll Clerks. They work in the United States. The company emphasizes a supportive work environment and offers many growth opportunities.
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LHH Recruitment Solutions
Average Salary: $78,450
LHH Recruitment Solutions provides a fair salary for Payroll Clerks. They operate in the United States. The company focuses on employee development and offers a collaborative work environment.
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AHRC NASSAU
Average Salary: $77,278
AHRC NASSAU offers a competitive salary for Payroll Clerks. They operate in the United States. The company values its employees and provides a supportive work environment.
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Leeds Professional Resources
Average Salary: $75,322
Leeds Professional Resources offers a good salary for Payroll Clerks. They operate in the United States. The company focuses on employee growth and offers a positive work environment.
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 payroll software, tax regulations, and compliance can make a Payroll Clerk more valuable to employers. Networking with other professionals in the field can also open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs.
Pursuing additional certifications can enhance a Payroll Clerk's skills and credentials. Certifications from recognized organizations such as the American Payroll Association (APA) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) can demonstrate a commitment to professional development. These credentials can make a Payroll Clerk more attractive to employers willing to pay a premium for qualified candidates. Continuing education and staying updated on industry trends can also lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Here are some factors to consider:
- Experience and Expertise: Gain experience in payroll management and specialize in areas like payroll software, tax regulations, and compliance.
- Certifications: Pursue additional certifications from recognized organizations to enhance skills and credentials.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals in the field to open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs.
- Continuing Education: Stay updated on industry trends and pursue further education to increase marketability.
- Professional Development: Commit to ongoing professional development to improve skills and knowledge.



