Planning Director Salaries

1. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $192,397
   In Washington, DC, leading urban planning initiatives sets the stage for impactful change. With a focus on infrastructure and sustainability, professionals collaborate with government agencies and leading firms to shape the future of the nation's capital. The city's rich history and political significance offer a unique backdrop for strategic planning.
   Find Planning Director jobs in Washington, DC
   

   
   

2. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $191,951
   San Francisco’s vibrant tech hub demands innovative planning solutions. Directors here lead projects that blend urban development with cutting-edge technology. Working closely with tech giants and startups, they ensure the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with rapid growth and innovation.
   Find Planning Director jobs in San Francisco, CA
   

   
   

3. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $180,917
   Seattle’s progressive approach to urban planning makes it an exciting place to lead. Directors focus on sustainable growth and community engagement, often partnering with major companies like Microsoft and Amazon. The city’s scenic beauty and forward-thinking culture provide a dynamic environment for urban development.
   Find Planning Director jobs in Seattle, WA
   

   
   

4. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $178,137
   San Diego’s strategic location by the Pacific Ocean brings unique challenges and opportunities. Planning directors here work to balance growth with preservation, ensuring the city’s natural beauty and livability. Collaboration with local businesses and environmental groups is key to successful projects.
   Find Planning Director jobs in San Diego, CA
   

   
   

5. San Antonio, TX
   Average Salary: $177,133
   San Antonio’s rapid growth and diverse culture create a vibrant setting for urban planning. Directors here focus on inclusive and sustainable growth, partnering with local government and businesses to enhance the city’s livability. The city’s rich history and community spirit drive innovative planning efforts.
   Find Planning Director jobs in San Antonio, TX
   

   
   

6. Portland, OR
   Average Salary: $172,585
   Portland’s focus on sustainability and livability offers a unique environment for planning directors. They work to create spaces that are environmentally friendly and community-oriented. Collaborating with local government and innovative businesses, they ensure the city remains a desirable place to live and work.
   Find Planning Director jobs in Portland, OR
   

   
   

7. Phoenix, AZ
   Average Salary: $171,691
   In Phoenix, directors face the challenge of managing growth in a rapidly expanding city. They focus on creating efficient infrastructure and sustainable practices. Working with local government and businesses, they aim to enhance the quality of life for residents in a sunny, growing metropolis.
   Find Planning Director jobs in Phoenix, AZ
   

   
   

8. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $169,006
   Denver’s strategic location and beautiful scenery make it a prime place for urban planning. Directors here focus on balancing development with the preservation of natural spaces. Collaboration with local government and businesses helps ensure the city grows in a balanced and sustainable way.
   Find Planning Director jobs in Denver, CO
   

   
   

9. Dallas, TX
   Average Salary: $166,589
   Dallas offers a dynamic environment for urban planning, with a focus on both growth and sustainability. Directors work to create efficient infrastructure and community spaces. The city’s strong business community and diverse culture provide a rich backdrop for innovative planning solutions.
   Find Planning Director jobs in Dallas, TX
   

   
   

10. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $160,130
    Minneapolis’s focus on sustainability and community well-being makes it an ideal place for urban planners. Directors here focus on creating green spaces and efficient public transport. Collaborating with local government and businesses, they ensure the city remains a vibrant and livable place to live.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Minneapolis, MN
    

1. PwC
   Average Salary: $313,500
   PwC offers rewarding Planning Director positions. This global consulting firm works in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and finance. They operate in many cities worldwide, including New York, London, and Sydney. At PwC, Planning Directors guide organizations in complex problem-solving and strategic planning.
   

   
   

2. Microsoft
   Average Salary: $211,895
   Microsoft provides excellent opportunities for Planning Directors. This tech giant operates in numerous locations, such as Redmond, Seattle, and San Francisco. Microsoft values strategic planners who can drive innovation and align projects with the company's vision. Planning Directors here help shape the future of technology.
   

   
   

3. KPMG
   Average Salary: $192,871
   KPMG is another top choice for Planning Directors. As a leading global professional services network, KPMG operates in major cities like New York, London, and Hong Kong. Here, Planning Directors collaborate on complex financial planning and advisory projects. KPMG offers a dynamic environment for strategic thinkers.
   

   
   

4. Hasbro, Inc.
   Average Salary: $185,009
   Hasbro, Inc. offers Planning Director positions in the creative toy and entertainment industry. Operating in cities like Pawtucket and New York, Hasbro seeks strategic planners to drive their growth. Planning Directors at Hasbro help bring innovative ideas to life, contributing to the company’s success.
   

   
   

5. USAA
   Average Salary: $173,813
   USAA provides rewarding Planning Director roles in the financial services sector. With operations in San Antonio and other key locations, USAA focuses on serving military members and their families. Planning Directors here play a critical role in strategic decision-making and financial planning.
   

   
   

6. Fidelity Investments
   Average Salary: $142,727
   Fidelity Investments offers Planning Director positions in the financial sector. This firm operates in Boston, New York, and other major cities. Fidelity seeks strategic planners to manage financial portfolios and provide investment advice. Planning Directors here contribute to the company’s mission of helping people achieve financial well-being.
   

A Planning Director can boost their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Experience remains a strong factor. Gaining more years of experience in the field and in leadership roles can open doors to higher-paying positions. Directors who excel at their jobs often receive promotions that come with salary increases. Networking also plays a crucial role. Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Gaining recognition within the industry can lead to higher-paying roles. Directors who have a notable track record of successful projects and strategic planning can command higher salaries.

Seeking additional certifications and education can further improve a Planning Director's earning potential. Advanced degrees or specialized certifications in urban planning, project management, or business administration can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Finally, demonstrating the ability to deliver results and drive growth can lead to salary increases. Directors who can show clear, measurable impacts on their organizations' performance may find themselves in higher-paying roles.

Here are five factors to consider:

1. Gain more experience in the field and leadership roles.
2. Build a strong professional network within the industry.
3. Pursue additional certifications and education.
4. Showcase successful projects and strategic planning.
5. Demonstrate the ability to drive growth and deliver results.