How much does a Payroll Clerk make?
The average yearly salary for a payroll clerk stands at $65,767. This profession offers competitive compensation, reflecting the vital role payroll clerks play in organizations. They handle important tasks such as calculating employee wages, ensuring timely payroll processing, and managing payroll records. This responsibility often leads to a salary that rewards their expertise and dedication.
Payroll clerks can expect their earnings to vary based on factors such as experience, education, and location. For instance, those with more experience or specialized skills may find themselves on the higher end of the salary scale. Additionally, payroll clerks in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living often receive higher salaries to offset these expenses. This range of salaries highlights the diverse opportunities available within the payroll clerk role.
What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Clerk?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $128,171
In Stamford, you'll find opportunities to work with well-known companies such as Charter Communications and United Technologies. The city offers a mix of finance and insurance firms, providing diverse payroll-related tasks.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $104,360
San Francisco boasts a tech-heavy environment with companies like Google and Salesforce. Payroll clerks here handle innovative payroll systems and tech-savvy employees.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $103,279
Hartford is home to insurance giants such as Travelers and Aetna, giving payroll clerks a chance to work in a robust insurance sector.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $100,482
With institutions like Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore offers a stable environment for payroll clerks. The city's healthcare sector provides a steady stream of payroll tasks.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $99,660
Tallahassee features a government-centric economy with roles at the Florida State University and state offices. Payroll clerks here often deal with public sector payroll systems.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $96,453
New Orleans offers a vibrant mix of tourism and healthcare. Payroll clerks here work with companies like Ochsner Health and Carnival Cruise Line.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $95,734
Cincinnati has a strong manufacturing base with companies like Procter & Gamble. Payroll clerks enjoy a stable industry with consistent payroll cycles.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $95,644
Detroit's auto industry provides a unique landscape for payroll clerks. Working with companies such as General Motors, they handle varied and complex payroll needs.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $95,630
Boston's educational and healthcare sectors offer dynamic roles for payroll clerks. They work with institutions like Boston Children's Hospital and Boston University.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $95,047
Minneapolis features a blend of finance, healthcare, and technology. Payroll clerks here engage with companies like U.S. Bank and Target.
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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 is a global leader in technology and consulting. They offer Payroll Clerk jobs in various locations, including New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. At Accenture, Payroll Clerks manage employee pay and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and government regulations.
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PwC
Average Salary: $196,375
PwC is a top accounting firm with offices worldwide. They provide Payroll Clerk roles in cities like London, Sydney, and Toronto. Here, Payroll Clerks handle payroll processing, tax filings, and employee inquiries. They also work to improve payroll systems and procedures.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $174,602
Deloitte is one of the Big Four accounting firms, with locations in major cities. Payroll Clerks at Deloitte manage payroll functions, support HR teams, and ensure compliance with labor laws. They play a key role in maintaining accurate employee records.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $133,293
KPMG is another Big Four firm, offering Payroll Clerk jobs in cities such as Los Angeles, Boston, and Denver. Here, Payroll Clerks process employee payroll, handle garnishments, and assist with audits. They work to keep payroll records up to date.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $123,692
Intuit is a well-known software company, with Payroll Clerk positions in Silicon Valley and Austin. They focus on providing excellent customer service. Payroll Clerks ensure timely and accurate payroll processing and support the use of Intuit's payroll software.
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Shake Shack
Average Salary: $110,931
Shake Shack is a popular burger restaurant with locations across the US and internationally. They offer Payroll Clerk jobs in cities like New York and Miami. Here, Payroll Clerks manage payroll processing, benefits, and employee records.
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High Country Search Group
Average Salary: $80,781
High Country Search Group is a staffing and recruitment firm with Payroll Clerk positions in North Carolina. They specialize in placing candidates in various roles. Payroll Clerks here ensure accurate payroll processing and assist with HR functions.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $80,258
Vaco is a staffing and recruiting company with Payroll Clerk jobs in cities such as Washington, D.C., and Houston. They focus on placing candidates in finance and accounting roles. Payroll Clerks manage payroll processing, benefits, and employee records.
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LHH Recruitment Solutions
Average Salary: $78,093
LHH Recruitment Solutions is a staffing firm with Payroll Clerk positions in New York and California. They help candidates find roles in various industries. Payroll Clerks here manage payroll processing, benefits, and employee records.
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AHRC NASSAU
Average Salary: $77,927
AHRC NASSAU is a nonprofit organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities. They offer Payroll Clerk jobs in Long Island, New York. Here, Payroll Clerks ensure accurate payroll processing and assist with HR functions.
How to earn more as a Payroll Clerk?
To increase earning potential as a Payroll Clerk, consider advancing your skills and experience. Companies value employees who can take on more responsibility. Seeking opportunities to learn about different payroll systems can make you more valuable. Certifications in payroll management can also enhance your resume. Look for positions that offer more complex payroll tasks to gain experience.
Networking within the industry can open doors to better-paying jobs. Attend industry events or join professional organizations. Connecting with others in the field can lead to job referrals. Share your experiences and seek advice from more experienced professionals. A strong network can help find job openings that are not advertised publicly. Stay informed about trends and changes in payroll management to remain competitive.
Consider exploring new job opportunities that offer higher salaries. Research different companies and their payroll departments. Look for roles in industries known for higher payroll budgets. Use job boards and company websites to find these positions. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience and skills relevant to these roles. Be prepared to demonstrate your value during interviews.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Payroll Clerk:
- Advance your skills and experience. Learn about different payroll systems and get certifications.
- Build a professional network. Attend events and join organizations to connect with others in the field.
- Seek higher-paying job opportunities. Research companies and industries that offer higher salaries.
- Stay informed about industry trends. Keep up with changes and new developments in payroll management.
- Demonstrate your value. Highlight your experience and skills during interviews.



