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How much does a Payroll Clerk make?

The average salary for a Payroll Clerk is $55,544 per year in the US.

A Payroll Clerk plays a key role in any business by managing employee payments. The average yearly salary for this position stands at $55,544. This job requires accuracy and attention to detail, making it important for those who seek steady income. Many Payroll Clerks find their earnings in the range of $31,903 to $123,250 each year.

The salary of a Payroll Clerk can vary based on experience and location. Most clerks start earning around $31,903 a year. As they gain more experience, some can earn up to $123,250 annually. For those who advance to higher roles or work in areas with higher living costs, salaries can be even higher. For example, top earners in this field may make up to $143,550 a year.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Clerk?

Job seekers can find great opportunities for Payroll Clerk positions in cities with higher average salaries. Baltimore, MD, offers an average salary of $94,522, making it one of the top-paying locations. Other cities with competitive salaries include San Francisco, CA, and Detroit, MI, providing attractive career prospects. These cities show that skilled Payroll Clerks have the chance to earn more in certain areas, making them attractive for those seeking higher pay. Cities like Hartford, CT, and Chicago, IL, also offer solid salaries, with each location offering unique benefits and job markets. Exploring these cities can lead to rewarding career opportunities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Payroll Clerk jobs, highlighting Baltimore, MD with the highest at $94,522 and Minneapolis, MN with the lowest at $78,046.
  1. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $94,522
    Baltimore offers a stable environment for handling payroll. Many local businesses rely on skilled professionals to manage their employee compensation. Large employers include Johns Hopkins University and Black & Decker.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Baltimore, MD


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $90,669
    In San Francisco, payroll professionals work in a dynamic tech-driven economy. Companies like Google and Salesforce depend on accurate payroll processing. The city’s high cost of living is often balanced by competitive salaries.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Detroit, MI
    Average Salary: $85,922
    Detroit provides a chance to work in an industrial hub with companies such as General Motors and Ford. Payroll specialists here are essential for managing compensation for a large workforce. The city is seeing growth, offering new opportunities.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Detroit, MI


  4. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $85,679
    Hartford is known as the insurance capital of the world. Working here, payroll clerks support companies like Aetna and Travelers. The city’s vibrant community and reasonable cost of living add to the appeal.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Hartford, CT


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $84,044
    Chicago offers a bustling job market for payroll professionals. Large firms like United Airlines and McDonald's need accurate payroll processing. The city's diverse economy provides various opportunities for career growth.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $83,344
    Dallas is a great place for payroll clerks with its booming economy. Companies such as AT&T and American Airlines offer stable employment. The city’s warm climate and lower cost of living are also attractive.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Dallas, TX


  7. Huntsville, AL
    Average Salary: $82,350
    Huntsville’s role in aerospace and defense makes it a key location for payroll management. Professionals here work with companies like NASA and Lockheed Martin. The city’s quality of life and reasonable housing costs are significant benefits.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Huntsville, AL


  8. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $81,033
    Seattle offers a unique blend of tech and natural beauty for payroll clerks. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft need precise payroll processing. The city’s progressive environment and high standard of living are notable.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Seattle, WA


  9. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $80,609
    Boston provides a rich environment for payroll specialists with its many educational and healthcare institutions. Working with companies such as Harvard and Mass General brings unique challenges and rewards. The city’s historical charm adds to its appeal.
    Find Payroll Clerk jobs in Boston, MA


  10. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $78,046
    Minneapolis is known for its strong financial sector. Payroll clerks here work with companies like Target and U.S. Bank. The city’s excellent schools and outdoor activities enhance its attractiveness to job seekers.
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What are the best companies a Payroll Clerk can work for?

Deloitte stands out as the top company for payroll clerk positions, offering an average salary of $151,662. This financial firm provides robust benefits and opportunities for career growth. Shake Shack follows closely, with an average salary of $107,736, making it another excellent choice for those in the field. Companies like Addison Group, Vaco, and Angi also offer competitive pay, ranging from $76,576 to $81,857 on average. These firms often provide strong benefits and professional development, ensuring job satisfaction.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Payroll Clerk jobs, highlighting Deloitte with the highest at $151,662 and AppleOne Employment Services with the lowest at $55,070.
  1. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $151,662
    Deloitte offers exciting Payroll Clerk roles. They manage payroll processing, ensure timely and accurate payments, and handle employee benefits. They have offices in major cities worldwide. Working here provides opportunities for growth and skill development.


  2. Shake Shack
    Average Salary: $107,736
    Shake Shack is a fast-casual restaurant chain with Payroll Clerk positions. They handle payroll processing for their locations across the U.S. and internationally. This role requires attention to detail and strong communication skills. Employees get to be part of a vibrant and growing company.


  3. Addison Group
    Average Salary: $81,857
    Addison Group focuses on recruiting and staffing services. Their Payroll Clerks work with various companies to manage payroll. They ensure timely and accurate processing, manage employee data, and handle benefits. They operate across the country, offering diverse opportunities.


  4. Vaco
    Average Salary: $78,843
    Vaco offers Payroll Clerk roles with a focus on human resources and staffing. They support clients by managing payroll, ensuring compliance, and providing excellent customer service. They have a presence in many industries and locations. This role offers a stable and rewarding career path.


  5. Angi
    Average Salary: $76,576
    Angi provides online services for home and repair needs. Their Payroll Clerks handle payroll processing, manage employee data, and ensure timely payments. They have a growing presence in the U.S. Working here offers a chance to be part of a dynamic and expanding company.


  6. Crowe
    Average Salary: $71,000
    Crowe offers a variety of roles, including Payroll Clerk. They handle payroll processing, tax reporting, and employee benefits administration. Crowe operates in many locations and sectors. This role provides opportunities for professional development and growth.


  7. State of Connecticut
    Average Salary: $67,981
    The State of Connecticut offers Payroll Clerk positions to manage state employee payroll. They ensure accurate and timely payments, handle employee data, and manage benefits. They have offices across Connecticut. Working here offers job stability and public service opportunities.


  8. Aston Carter
    Average Salary: $60,018
    Aston Carter is a staffing firm that offers Payroll Clerk roles. They work with various companies to manage payroll, benefits, and compliance. They have a presence in many industries and locations. This role provides opportunities for professional growth and stability.


  9. Navitas Partners, LLC
    Average Salary: $59,327
    Navitas Partners, LLC offers Payroll Clerk positions focusing on staffing services. They handle payroll processing, manage employee data, and ensure compliance. They operate in various sectors and locations. This role offers a chance to work in a dynamic and growing environment.


  10. AppleOne Employment Services
    Average Salary: $55,070
    AppleOne Employment Services offers Payroll Clerk roles with a focus on staffing and recruiting. They manage payroll processing, employee data, and benefits administration. They have locations across the country. This role offers opportunities for professional development and job stability.

How to earn more as a Payroll Clerk?

A Payroll Clerk can boost their earnings by focusing on key areas of professional growth. Specialization in payroll software can make a significant difference. Mastery of common software like ADP, QuickBooks, and Paychex makes a Payroll Clerk more valuable. Gaining certification from recognized payroll institutions can enhance credibility and attract higher pay. Additionally, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field provides a solid foundation for career advancement.

Expanding one’s skill set through courses and workshops keeps a Payroll Clerk ahead of industry trends. Networking with other professionals in the payroll industry opens doors to better job opportunities. Attending seminars and joining professional organizations can lead to new insights and potential raises. Seeking roles in larger companies or industries with higher payroll budgets can also increase earnings. Each step taken towards professional development contributes to higher earning potential.

To earn more, a Payroll Clerk should:

  • Specialize in payroll software
  • Get certification in payroll management
  • Pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
  • Attend courses and workshops
  • Network and join professional organizations

Currently 559 Payroll Clerk job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Payroll Clerk in the US?

Learn what a Payroll Clerk does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Payroll Clerk today.
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Payroll Clerk
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