Overview Salaries

Program Director Salaries

Updated on Oct 10, 2026
Position
Salary

How much does a Program Director make?

The average salary for a Program Director is $77,950 per year in the US.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Program Director positions, showing an average salary of $77,950 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Program Director positions, showing an average salary of $77,950 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Program Director positions, showing an average salary of $77,950 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Program Director positions, showing an average salary of $77,950 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Program Directors oversee and manage specific projects or programs within an organization. Their role is crucial for ensuring that programs run smoothly and meet their goals. Program Directors need strong leadership skills, excellent communication, and the ability to manage budgets and timelines.

Salary data shows that Program Directors earn a competitive income. On average, they make about $77,950 per year. This number can vary based on experience, industry, and the size of the organization. Higher salaries often go to those with more experience and those who work in high-demand industries. Program Directors can also earn bonuses or other benefits, which can increase their total compensation.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Program Director?

Job seekers looking to land a Program Director position can find attractive opportunities in Huntsville, AL, where the average salary reaches $158,431. This high compensation reflects the city's focus on technology and aerospace, creating a strong demand for skilled program leaders. Another excellent option is San Francisco, CA, with an average salary of $133,263, where the bustling tech industry supports higher earnings for experienced directors. Beside San Francisco, San Diego, CA, offers a competitive average salary of $129,222 for Program Directors. This city combines a dynamic business environment with a high cost of living, making it a lucrative choice for those in the field. Additionally, cities like Topeka, KS, and Boston, MA, provide strong average salaries of $127,159 and $121,705, respectively, offering balance in compensation and cost of living.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Program Director jobs, highlighting Huntsville, AL with the highest at $158,431 and Denver, CO with the lowest at $111,188.

  1. Huntsville, AL
    Average Salary: $158,431
    Huntsville offers a vibrant tech sector, providing numerous opportunities to lead innovative projects. With prominent employers like NASA and various defense contractors, professionals can make significant impacts. The community fosters collaboration and growth, making it ideal for dynamic leaders.
    Find Program Director jobs in Huntsville, AL


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $133,263
    San Francisco is a hub for tech giants and startups, offering exciting roles for leaders in program management. Companies like Google and Salesforce thrive here. The city’s fast-paced environment challenges leaders to innovate continuously and drive results.
    Find Program Director jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $129,222
    San Diego's diverse economy features top employers like Qualcomm and biotech firms. Professionals can lead impactful programs in a dynamic environment. The city’s mild climate and quality of life add to the appeal for leaders looking to balance work and personal life.
    Find Program Director jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Topeka, KS
    Average Salary: $127,159
    Topeka offers a balanced lifestyle with a growing tech and healthcare sector. Companies such as Garmin and various state agencies provide excellent opportunities. The cost of living is moderate, making it an attractive choice for leaders seeking stability and growth.
    Find Program Director jobs in Topeka, KS


  5. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $121,705
    Boston’s rich history and academic institutions create a fertile ground for program management. Major companies like Boston Scientific and Harvard offer rewarding challenges. The city’s vibrant culture and networking opportunities make it an exciting place for professionals to thrive.
    Find Program Director jobs in Boston, MA


  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $120,264
    Washington, DC, is a center for policy and international business, offering diverse opportunities for program directors. Organizations like USAID and various NGOs present unique challenges. The city’s political environment and networking opportunities are invaluable for career growth.
    Find Program Director jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $116,628
    Dallas boasts a booming economy with a mix of oil, tech, and healthcare sectors. Companies like ExxonMobil and AT&T provide significant leadership roles. The city’s warm climate and business-friendly environment make it a great place for career advancement.
    Find Program Director jobs in Dallas, TX


  8. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $115,545
    Atlanta’s growing economy offers exciting opportunities in finance, healthcare, and logistics. Companies such as Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines provide dynamic environments. The city’s affordability and quality of life attract many professionals.
    Find Program Director jobs in Atlanta, GA


  9. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $113,698
    Stamford is a major financial hub with many Fortune 500 companies. Leaders can find rewarding roles in finance, insurance, and healthcare. The city’s proximity to New York City offers additional opportunities for networking and professional development.
    Find Program Director jobs in Stamford, CT


  10. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $111,188
    Denver’s vibrant economy features tech startups and outdoor recreation companies. Firms like Lockheed Martin and various tech firms provide exciting leadership roles. The city’s outdoor lifestyle and quality of life make it a great place to work and live.
    Find Program Director jobs in Denver, CO

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

For those seeking top-tier Program Director positions, Amity Foundation leads with a strong average salary of $403,633. Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center follows closely, offering $365,886 on average. Both companies provide competitive compensation and benefits, making them attractive to qualified candidates. Top contenders also include CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region, Northrop Grumman, and Mount Sinai Health System, with Northrop Grumman offering an average salary of $277,181. These companies value program directors, providing lucrative opportunities and professional growth. Exploring roles at these companies can lead to rewarding career advancements and financial stability.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Program Director jobs, highlighting Amity Foundation with the highest at $403,633 and Raytheon with the lowest at $220,117.

  1. Amity Foundation
    Average Salary: $403,633
    The Amity Foundation seeks a Program Director to oversee its diverse programs in healthcare and social services. This organization operates in multiple regions, focusing on improving the lives of those in need. The Program Director will work across various locations, ensuring high-quality program delivery.


  2. Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center
    Average Salary: $365,886
    Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center is looking for a Program Director to manage healthcare initiatives. This company provides comprehensive medical services and operates in the Southern California region. The Program Director will play a key role in enhancing healthcare programs and services.


  3. CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region
    Average Salary: $328,572
    CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region needs a Program Director to oversee their healthcare programs. They serve communities in the Western United States. This position offers opportunities to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes across various locations.


  4. Northrop Grumman
    Average Salary: $277,181
    Northrop Grumman is hiring a Program Director for their defense and aerospace programs. This company operates globally, offering advanced technology solutions. The Program Director will manage complex projects and drive innovation in aerospace and defense.


  5. Mount Sinai Health System
    Average Salary: $257,654
    Mount Sinai Health System is looking for a Program Director to lead healthcare programs. They operate in New York City and offer a wide range of medical services. The Program Director will focus on enhancing patient care and program efficiency.


  6. AECOM
    Average Salary: $252,321
    AECOM seeks a Program Director to manage infrastructure projects. This company works globally, offering consulting services in engineering and architecture. The Program Director will oversee projects and ensure successful completion on time and within budget.


  7. Salesforce
    Average Salary: $244,717
    Salesforce is hiring a Program Director for their technology programs. They operate worldwide, providing cloud-based software solutions. The Program Director will manage software development projects and drive innovation in cloud computing.


  8. Bristol Myers Squibb
    Average Salary: $221,978
    Bristol Myers Squibb needs a Program Director to oversee pharmaceutical programs. This company operates globally, focusing on discovering and developing medicines. The Program Director will manage drug development and ensure high standards in research and development.


  9. General Dynamics Information Technology
    Average Salary: $220,893
    General Dynamics Information Technology is looking for a Program Director to manage IT programs. They operate globally, providing IT services to various industries. The Program Director will oversee IT projects and ensure successful implementation.


  10. Raytheon
    Average Salary: $220,117
    Raytheon is hiring a Program Director for defense and aerospace programs. They operate worldwide, providing advanced technology solutions. The Program Director will manage projects related to defense and aerospace, ensuring innovative solutions.

How to earn more as a Program Director?

A Program Director plays a crucial role in overseeing the success of projects and initiatives. To earn more in this position, consider focusing on several key areas that can boost your salary and professional standing. One way to enhance earning potential is through gaining relevant experience and expertise in specific industries or sectors. This can lead to higher-paying positions and greater responsibility.

Another factor is improving leadership and management skills. Effective leaders can manage teams more efficiently, which can translate to better project outcomes and higher compensation. Seeking opportunities to take on more challenging projects can also demonstrate your capabilities and readiness for higher-paying roles. Continuous professional development and earning certifications related to program management can make a significant difference. Networking within the industry and staying informed about market trends can open doors to better-paying opportunities.

Below are five factors that can help increase earnings as a Program Director:

  1. Gain Relevant Experience: Work in various industries or sectors to build a broad and deep expertise.
  2. Enhance Leadership Skills: Improve management and team oversight to boost efficiency and project outcomes.
  3. Take on Challenging Projects: Volunteer for high-stakes projects to demonstrate your capabilities and readiness for higher-level roles.
  4. Pursue Professional Development: Obtain certifications and attend workshops to stay current and enhance skills.
  5. Network and Stay Informed: Build connections and keep up with industry trends to uncover better job opportunities.

Currently 1,821 Program Director job openings, nationwide.

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

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