Position
Salary

How much does a Public Relations Director make?

The average salary for a Public Relations Director is $119,606 per year in the US.

A Public Relations Director has a rewarding career with a strong earning potential. On average, they make about $119,606 per year. This average figure reflects the wide range of salaries in the field. Experience, industry, and location all play a role in determining exact earnings.

Public Relations Directors can earn more as they gain experience and take on more responsibility. The lower end of the salary range starts around $41,258. This is often for those just starting out. At the higher end, experienced professionals can earn over $266,000 annually. This broad range shows the opportunities for growth and advancement in the field.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Public Relations Director?

Job seekers for Public Relations Director positions will find attractive opportunities in major cities. San Francisco, CA, offers the highest average salary at $178,492. Next is Washington, DC, with an average of $166,201. Seattle, WA, provides a competitive average of $154,188. Other cities with notable salaries include Los Angeles, CA, and Boston, MA, offering averages of $136,611 and $143,706, respectively. Each of these cities presents excellent prospects for experienced professionals in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Public Relations Director jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $178,492 and San Antonio, TX with the lowest at $84,786.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $178,492
    In San Francisco, a dynamic tech hub, professionals thrive in a fast-paced environment. Companies like Apple and Google offer exciting opportunities. Networking and innovation are key.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $166,201
    Working in Washington, DC, means being at the center of politics and influence. PR leaders connect with government agencies and high-profile organizations. It’s a place where every interaction counts.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $154,188
    Seattle offers a mix of tech giants and startups, creating a vibrant PR landscape. Leaders here value creativity and community. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide diverse experiences.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $143,706
    Boston's rich history and education sector create a unique PR environment. Leaders work with top universities and innovative firms. The city's blend of tradition and modernity is appealing.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in Boston, MA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $136,611
    In Los Angeles, the entertainment industry shapes PR strategies. Leaders engage with celebrities and major studios. The city's vibrant culture enhances the professional experience.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $131,794
    Austin's tech boom and live music scene make it exciting for PR leaders. Companies here value creativity and innovation. Networking with startups and established firms is a daily delight.
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  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $128,765
    San Diego offers a balanced lifestyle with beautiful beaches and a strong biotech sector. PR professionals work with innovative companies and enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
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  8. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $105,994
    Chicago's diverse business landscape offers a range of PR opportunities. Leaders engage with media, non-profits, and corporations. The city's energy and history add depth to the role.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in Chicago, IL


  9. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $95,971
    Kansas City provides a friendly environment with a mix of industries. PR leaders enjoy a close-knit community and a strong sense of collaboration. Companies here value experience and dedication.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in Kansas City, MO


  10. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $84,786
    San Antonio's growing economy and warm culture make it a welcoming place for PR leaders. Professionals here value community and innovation. The city offers diverse opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle.
    Find Public Relations Director jobs in San Antonio, TX

What are the best companies a Public Relations Director can work for?

Job seekers looking to become Public Relations Directors can find high-paying opportunities with FTI Consulting, Inc. and the State of Louisiana. FTI Consulting, Inc. offers an average salary of $127,708, making it a top choice for those seeking competitive compensation. The State of Louisiana provides a solid average salary of $77,716, offering a chance to work in a public sector role with attractive benefits. Both companies offer dynamic environments where Public Relations Directors can thrive. FTI Consulting, Inc. provides diverse projects and a global platform, while the State of Louisiana allows for impactful community engagement. These positions are ideal for experienced professionals aiming for rewarding career growth.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Public Relations Director jobs, highlighting FTI Consulting, Inc. with the highest at $127,708 and State of Louisiana with the lowest at $77,716.
  1. FTI Consulting, Inc.
    Average Salary: $127,708
    FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm. They offer top-notch salaries for Public Relations Directors. This role involves crafting and implementing communication strategies. FTI operates in many locations, including New York, London, and Singapore.


  2. State of Louisiana
    Average Salary: $77,716
    The State of Louisiana provides a solid career for Public Relations Directors. This role focuses on managing the state's image. The State of Louisiana operates throughout the state, with major offices in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Directors here work to connect with communities and promote state initiatives.

How to earn more as a Public Relations Director?

A Public Relations Director can find many ways to earn more. With the right mix of skills, experience, and networking, it's possible to boost earnings. Focus on these areas to increase salary potential.

First, gaining more experience in the field can lead to higher earnings. Directors with several years of experience often earn more. They have more knowledge and can handle complex projects better. Working in a larger company or with big clients also helps. These experiences can lead to better pay. Networking within the industry can create opportunities for higher-paying roles. Attending industry events, joining professional groups, and connecting with others can open doors. A strong network can lead to better job offers.

Directors who take on extra responsibilities often earn more. This can include managing bigger budgets or overseeing larger teams. Stepping up can lead to a raise or a promotion. Specialization in a niche, like tech or healthcare, can also increase earnings. Experts in a specific area can command higher pay. Lastly, directors who excel at crisis management and have a proven track record of successful campaigns can earn more. Skills and a strong portfolio impress potential employers.

To maximize earnings as a Public Relations Director, focus on these key areas:

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Network within the industry
  3. Take on extra responsibilities
  4. Specialize in a niche
  5. Showcase crisis management skills

Currently 84 Public Relations Director job openings, nationwide.

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

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