Position
Salary

How much does a Planning Director make?

The average salary for a Planning Director is $166,856 per year in the US.

Planning Directors play a key role in shaping the future of their organizations. These professionals lead strategic planning initiatives and ensure alignment with company goals. They typically earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a Planning Director stands at approximately $166,856, reflecting the importance of their role in decision-making processes.

The salary for Planning Directors can vary based on experience, industry, and location. Those in the lower range may earn around $67,500 per year, while the highest earners can make upwards of $313,500 annually. Factors like advanced degrees, certifications, and a proven track record in project management can lead to higher salaries. A Planning Director’s ability to deliver successful outcomes often translates into significant financial rewards.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Planning Director?

Seeking a Planning Director role means looking at where the highest salaries are offered. San Francisco tops the list with an average salary of over $197,000. Other cities like Seattle and Washington, DC, also offer competitive pay packages above $170,000. These cities present great opportunities for those aiming for higher earnings in planning careers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Planning Director jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $197,696 and Dallas, TX with the lowest at $159,437.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $197,696
    San Francisco offers dynamic opportunities in urban planning. Companies like Google and Salesforce depend on strategic planning to thrive. The city’s focus on tech and innovation drives demand for skilled planners.
    Find Planning Director jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $185,779
    Seattle stands out for its progressive urban development. Tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft rely on effective planning. The city values sustainability, creating a unique environment for planners.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $184,876
    Washington, DC, is a hub for policy and urban planning. Government agencies and think tanks look for experts to shape the city’s future. The political landscape offers a unique backdrop for planning careers.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Washington, DC


  4. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $178,676
    San Diego’s blend of coastal charm and tech industry draws planners. Companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms seek strategic growth plans. The city’s growing population fuels demand for innovative planning.
    Find Planning Director jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $176,995
    San Antonio’s diverse economy attracts planners. The city’s growing tech sector and military presence need forward-thinking strategies. The warm climate and lower cost of living add to its appeal.
    Find Planning Director jobs in San Antonio, TX


  6. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $172,827
    Phoenix offers a growing market for urban planners. The tech industry’s expansion and population growth drive demand for skilled professionals. The city’s climate and outdoor activities make it an attractive place to live.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $172,585
    Portland values sustainability and urban planning. The city’s focus on green initiatives attracts planners. Tech companies and startups look for strategic direction to thrive.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Portland, OR


  8. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $169,006
    Denver’s vibrant culture and growing economy offer great opportunities. Companies in tech and energy sectors need strategic planners. The city’s high altitude and outdoor lifestyle enhance its appeal.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Denver, CO


  9. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $162,359
    Minneapolis provides a balanced environment for planners. The city’s strong economy and focus on innovation offer diverse opportunities. The mild summers and rich cultural scene make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  10. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $159,437
    Dallas boasts a booming economy and tech industry. Companies like AT&T and ExxonMobil rely on skilled planners. The city’s warm climate and affordable living make it a great place to build a career.
    Find Planning Director jobs in Dallas, TX

What are the best companies a Planning Director can work for?

PwC leads the way for Planning Director roles with an average salary of $313,500. KPMG follows closely with an average salary of $192,871. For those seeking stability and competitive pay, USAA offers a solid $176,566, making it a strong contender. Hasbro, Inc. and Fidelity Investments provide robust compensation packages, averaging $181,962 and $148,364 respectively. These companies value strategic planning and offer excellent career growth opportunities. By aiming for these top firms, job seekers can secure high salaries and advance their careers effectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Planning Director jobs, highlighting PwC with the highest at $313,500 and Fidelity Investments with the lowest at $148,364.
  1. PwC
    Average Salary: $313,500
    PwC offers Planning Director roles with a focus on strategic planning and operational efficiency. The company operates worldwide, with major offices in the United States, the UK, India, and China.


  2. KPMG
    Average Salary: $192,871
    At KPMG, Planning Directors lead teams to create and implement plans that drive business growth. KPMG has a global presence, with key locations in the United States, the UK, Canada, and Australia.


  3. Hasbro, Inc.
    Average Salary: $181,962
    Hasbro, Inc. seeks Planning Directors to enhance their toy and entertainment brands. The company is based in the United States, with offices in several countries including the UK, France, and China.


  4. USAA
    Average Salary: $176,566
    Planning Directors at USAA develop financial and business strategies to support their members. USAA operates primarily in the United States, serving military members and their families.


  5. Fidelity Investments
    Average Salary: $148,364
    Fidelity Investments offers Planning Director positions focused on financial planning and analysis. The company is based in the United States, with key offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and various locations worldwide.

How to earn more as a Planning Director?

Increasing earnings as a Planning Director involves mastering various skills and strategies. Experience often leads to higher salaries, as it builds a solid foundation of knowledge and skills. A director with years of experience will likely command higher compensation due to their proven track record. Networking within the industry can also open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Building relationships with peers and leaders can lead to job offers that pay more.

Certifications and advanced degrees can also boost earning potential. Specialized training in urban planning, sustainability, or management can make a director more valuable. Each certification or degree adds a layer of expertise that employers may be willing to pay a premium for. Directors who excel in leadership and can drive projects forward efficiently often find themselves in higher-paying roles. Strong management skills and the ability to motivate teams can make a significant difference in salary negotiations.

Below are key factors to increase earnings:

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Network within the industry
  3. Pursue certifications and advanced degrees
  4. Develop strong leadership skills
  5. Show efficiency in project management

Currently 144 Planning Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Planning Director in the US?

Learn what a Planning Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Planning Director today.
Position
Overview
Planning Director
144 Job Openings