How much does a Program Manager make?
A Program Manager plays a key role in overseeing projects and ensuring they meet goals. They work in many industries, from tech to healthcare. The average yearly salary for a Program Manager is around $101,238. This means most Program Managers earn between this amount and more, depending on their experience and location.
The salary for Program Managers can vary widely. The lowest 10% earn about $42,000 a year. The top 10% earn over $200,000. Most fall somewhere in the middle. Factors like company size, industry, and location affect these numbers. For example, Program Managers in big cities often earn more than those in smaller towns. Experience and education also play a big role in salary levels.
What are the highest paying cities for a Program Manager?

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      Huntsville, AL 
 Average Salary: $142,050
 Huntsville offers a vibrant tech scene with many opportunities for those managing projects. Companies like NASA and various defense contractors provide a dynamic environment. The cost of living is reasonable, making it a great place to work and live.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Huntsville, AL
 
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      Modesto, CA 
 Average Salary: $130,536
 Modesto, known for its agricultural roots, is now a hub for tech and innovation. With companies like Cisco and various startups, it's a growing area for program management. The community is welcoming, and the lifestyle is balanced.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Modesto, CA
 
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      Colorado Springs, CO 
 Average Salary: $127,266
 Colorado Springs is a key location for defense and aerospace. With major employers like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, it's a prime spot for program managers. The outdoors offer plenty of activities, making it a great place to live.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
 
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      San Diego, CA 
 Average Salary: $126,442
 San Diego boasts a strong tech industry with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms. The city's beautiful weather and coastal lifestyle make it an attractive place to work. Program managers here enjoy diverse projects and a high quality of life.
 Find Program Manager jobs in San Diego, CA
 
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      Stamford, CT 
 Average Salary: $124,487
 Stamford is home to many financial and tech companies. With corporations like Xerox and various hedge funds, it's a great place for program managers. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with plenty of amenities.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Stamford, CT
 
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      Washington, DC 
 Average Salary: $122,880
 Washington, DC is a political and tech hub with many opportunities for program managers. Companies like Amazon and various government contractors offer diverse projects. The city's rich history and culture add to its appeal.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Washington, DC
 
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      San Francisco, CA 
 Average Salary: $121,377
 San Francisco is a leading tech city with giants like Google and Salesforce. The fast-paced environment offers many challenges and opportunities for program managers. The city's vibrant culture and scenic beauty make it a unique place to work.
 Find Program Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA
 
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      San Jose, CA 
 Average Salary: $115,306
 San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, home to tech giants like Apple and Intel. It's a dynamic place for program managers with many innovative projects. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with a strong tech community.
 Find Program Manager jobs in San Jose, CA
 
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      Seattle, WA 
 Average Salary: $113,698
 Seattle is a tech powerhouse with companies like Microsoft and Amazon. The city's culture and natural beauty make it a great place to work. Program managers here enjoy a mix of urban and outdoor activities, with a strong sense of community.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Seattle, WA
 
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      Fort Collins, CO 
 Average Salary: $112,066
 Fort Collins is known for its outdoor lifestyle and growing tech scene. With companies like Lockheed Martin and various startups, it's a great place for program managers. The city offers a high quality of life with plenty of recreational activities.
 Find Program Manager jobs in Fort Collins, CO
 
What are the best companies a Program Manager can work for?

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      Netflix 
 Average Salary: $281,346
 Netflix offers exciting Program Manager jobs with a focus on innovation and creativity. They operate globally, with major offices in Los Angeles, California, and other locations worldwide. Program Managers at Netflix work on projects that drive the company's success and enhance user experience.
 
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      HNTB Corporation 
 Average Salary: $273,731
 HNTB Corporation provides Program Manager roles that focus on infrastructure and design. They have offices across the United States, including in Los Angeles, California, and New York, New York. Program Managers here manage projects that improve public infrastructure and services.
 
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      SAP 
 Average Salary: $233,913
 SAP offers Program Manager jobs that focus on software development and enterprise solutions. They have offices worldwide, including in Walldorf, Germany, and various locations in the United States. Program Managers work on projects that enhance business processes and software solutions.
 
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      Intuitive (Intuitive Surgical) 
 Average Salary: $232,169
 Intuitive Surgical provides Program Manager roles that focus on medical technology. They operate globally, with major offices in Sunnyvale, California, and other locations worldwide. Program Managers here manage projects that advance surgical technology and improve patient care.
 
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      PwC 
 Average Salary: $219,419
 PwC offers Program Manager jobs that focus on consulting and advisory services. They have offices worldwide, including in New York, New York, and London, United Kingdom. Program Managers work on projects that help businesses improve their operations and strategies.
 
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      NVIDIA 
 Average Salary: $214,517
 NVIDIA provides Program Manager roles that focus on graphics technology and AI. They have offices worldwide, including in Santa Clara, California, and other locations. Program Managers here manage projects that drive innovation in graphics and artificial intelligence.
 
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      OpenAI 
 Average Salary: $212,824
 OpenAI offers Program Manager jobs that focus on artificial intelligence research. They have offices in San Francisco, California, and other locations. Program Managers work on projects that advance AI technology and ensure its safe and ethical use.
 
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      Expedia Group 
 Average Salary: $205,208
 Expedia Group provides Program Manager roles that focus on travel technology. They have offices worldwide, including in Seattle, Washington, and other locations. Program Managers here manage projects that enhance the travel booking experience for users.
 
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      Waymo 
 Average Salary: $203,571
 Waymo offers Program Manager jobs that focus on autonomous vehicle technology. They operate in Mountain View, California, and other locations. Program Managers work on projects that advance self-driving car technology and improve transportation solutions.
 
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      Viasat 
 Average Salary: $200,804
 Viasat provides Program Manager roles that focus on communications technology. They have offices worldwide, including in Carlsbad, California, and other locations. Program Managers here manage projects that enhance satellite communications and internet services.
 
How to earn more as a Program Manager?
A Program Manager can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining experience in different industries and projects can make a Program Manager more versatile and valuable. This experience allows them to manage a wider range of programs and can lead to higher-paying positions. Second, obtaining advanced certifications in project management can enhance skills and knowledge. Certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 can open up more opportunities and higher salaries. Third, developing strong leadership and communication skills helps in managing teams effectively and ensuring project success. These skills are crucial for any Program Manager and can lead to promotions and salary increases. Fourth, networking with other professionals in the field can lead to new job opportunities and insights into higher-paying roles. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can be beneficial. Lastly, continuously learning and adapting to new technologies and methodologies keeps a Program Manager competitive in the job market. Staying updated with the latest trends can lead to better job offers and higher earnings.
Program Managers who focus on these areas can see significant improvements in their earnings. By gaining diverse experience, obtaining advanced certifications, enhancing leadership skills, networking with peers, and staying current with industry trends, Program Managers can position themselves for higher-paying roles. These efforts not only increase earnings but also contribute to long-term career growth and success.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Gain experience in different industries and projects.
- Obtain advanced certifications in project management.
- Develop strong leadership and communication skills.
- Network with other professionals in the field.
- Continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.



