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Salary

How much does a Payroll Specialist make?

The average salary for a Payroll Specialist is $100,225 per year in the US.

Becoming a Payroll Specialist is a wise career choice for those interested in managing employee pay. This role involves a lot of detail work, but it pays well. Most Payroll Specialists earn between $60,082 and $118,591 a year.

The salary can vary depending on experience, location, and the type of employer. For example, those in large companies or big cities often earn more. Payroll Specialists who work in finance or technology also tend to have higher salaries. Those who have several years of experience and advanced certifications can expect to earn at the top end of the scale.

For a more accurate picture, here are some common salaries:

  • 10th percentile: $48,380
  • 25th percentile: $60,082
  • 50th percentile (median): $83,485
  • 75th percentile: $118,591
  • 90th percentile: $141,995
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What are the highest paying cities for a Payroll Specialist?

Cities like San Francisco and Seattle offer the highest pay for Payroll Specialists. In these areas, Payroll Specialists earn around $145,579 and $123,485 per year. Other top-paying cities include San Jose, Boston, and Tucson. High salaries make these cities attractive for Payroll Specialists. They enjoy better pay and more benefits. Candidates may consider these cities for better career opportunities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Payroll Specialist jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $145,579 and Austin, TX with the lowest at $97,494.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $145,579
    In San Francisco, a Payroll Specialist plays a key role in managing payroll processes. Working with tech giants like Salesforce and Google, one can expect to handle complex payroll systems with precision. The city's dynamic job market offers good opportunities for career growth.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $123,485
    Seattle offers a vibrant environment for payroll professionals. With major companies like Amazon and Microsoft, specialists can gain valuable experience. The city’s strong tech sector ensures a steady demand for skilled payroll experts.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $120,160
    In San Jose, a Payroll Specialist can find rewarding work with companies such as Cisco and Adobe. The city’s tech-driven economy means payroll tasks often involve handling innovative software systems. Career advancement is possible due to the thriving industry.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $118,504
    Boston presents a unique market for payroll professionals. Working with major firms like Fidelity and Harvard, specialists handle a variety of payroll systems. The city’s rich history in education and finance offers diverse experience.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Boston, MA


  5. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $112,440
    Tucson provides a balanced work environment for payroll specialists. The presence of companies like Raytheon and the University of Arizona offers stability. The city’s slower pace allows for a focus on precision in payroll management.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Tucson, AZ


  6. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $109,943
    In Dallas, a Payroll Specialist works in a thriving business hub. Companies such as AT&T and ExxonMobil provide a robust environment for payroll professionals. The city’s economic strength ensures ample opportunities for career growth.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Dallas, TX


  7. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $108,963
    Denver is an excellent place for payroll experts to thrive. With businesses like Comcast and Chipotle, specialists can work with a mix of industries. The city’s outdoor culture offers a balanced lifestyle, enhancing job satisfaction.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Denver, CO


  8. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $108,490
    Los Angeles offers a diverse setting for payroll professionals. Working with entertainment giants like Disney and Warner Bros., specialists handle varied payroll needs. The city’s dynamic job market provides numerous opportunities for advancement.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  9. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $103,239
    Atlanta provides a fast-paced environment for payroll specialists. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines require precise payroll management. The city’s growing economy offers good career prospects for dedicated professionals.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Atlanta, GA


  10. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $97,494
    In Austin, a Payroll Specialist can enjoy a vibrant work atmosphere. With tech companies like Dell and Apple, specialists handle modern payroll systems. The city’s innovative culture ensures a rewarding career path.
    Find Payroll Specialist jobs in Austin, TX

What are the best companies a Payroll Specialist can work for?

Deloitte offers top salaries for payroll specialists, often above $177,000. Meta and Amazon Web Services also provide competitive pay, with average salaries around $134,000. These companies value skilled payroll specialists and reward them with excellent compensation. Companies like Amazon and Liberty Mutual Insurance also offer strong salaries for payroll specialists, ranging from $126,000 to $108,000. GEICO and Huntington National Bank provide average salaries of around $105,000. These organizations recognize the importance of payroll specialists in maintaining their financial operations.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Payroll Specialist jobs, highlighting Deloitte with the highest at $177,100 and Athletico with the lowest at $88,291.
  1. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $177,100
    Deloitte offers a dynamic environment for Payroll Specialists, providing competitive salaries. They operate globally, with headquarters in the U.S., U.K., India, and China. Deloitte focuses on professional services and helps clients with audit, consulting, and financial advisory.


  2. Meta
    Average Salary: $136,094
    Meta, known for its social media platforms, offers attractive salaries to Payroll Specialists. They have offices worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Meta seeks Payroll Specialists who can handle complex payroll processes efficiently.


  3. Amazon Web Services (AWS)
    Average Salary: $134,632
    AWS, a division of Amazon, provides rewarding career opportunities for Payroll Specialists. With offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, AWS values Payroll Specialists who can manage cloud-based payroll systems.


  4. Axon
    Average Salary: $133,146
    Axon specializes in public safety technology. Their Payroll Specialists are key in ensuring timely and accurate payroll processing. Axon has locations in the U.S. and internationally, focusing on police technology.


  5. Amazon
    Average Salary: $126,371
    Amazon, a global e-commerce giant, offers competitive salaries for Payroll Specialists. They have numerous locations worldwide, from fulfillment centers to corporate offices. Amazon looks for Payroll Specialists who can handle large-scale payroll operations.


  6. Liberty Mutual Insurance
    Average Salary: $108,607
    Liberty Mutual Insurance provides a stable career for Payroll Specialists, with offices across the U.S. and internationally. They value Payroll Specialists who can ensure precise payroll calculations and compliance.


  7. GEICO
    Average Salary: $108,138
    GEICO, a well-known insurance company, offers good compensation for Payroll Specialists. Their Payroll Specialists work in various locations in the U.S., ensuring employees receive timely paychecks.


  8. Huntington National Bank
    Average Salary: $105,000
    Huntington National Bank provides a solid salary for Payroll Specialists, with branches across the Midwest and Eastern U.S. They value Payroll Specialists who can handle banking payroll systems with accuracy.


  9. Robert Half
    Average Salary: $90,662
    Robert Half is a staffing firm that offers Payroll Specialist positions with a solid salary. They have offices worldwide, helping clients find skilled Payroll Specialists for temporary and permanent roles.


  10. Athletico
    Average Salary: $88,291
    Athletico, a provider of physical therapy services, offers rewarding career opportunities for Payroll Specialists. With locations across the U.S., they need Payroll Specialists who can manage healthcare payroll systems.

How to earn more as a Payroll Specialist?

A Payroll Specialist can earn more by taking certain steps to enhance their skills and marketability. Improving your qualifications and experience can lead to higher salary opportunities. Specializing in a particular area of payroll management can also increase your earning potential.

Consider these factors to maximize your earnings:

  1. Certification: Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) can enhance your credibility and salary prospects.
  2. Experience: Gaining experience in high-demand industries can lead to higher pay. Industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology often offer better salaries for payroll specialists.
  3. Advanced Skills: Learning advanced payroll software and systems can make you more valuable to employers. Skills in areas such as compliance, tax regulations, and financial reporting can set you apart.
  4. Networking: Building a strong professional network can open doors to higher-paying job opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with peers online.
  5. Continual Learning: Staying updated with the latest trends and laws in payroll management can improve your job performance and salary. Regularly take courses and attend workshops to keep your skills sharp.

Currently 265 Payroll Specialist job openings, nationwide.

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

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