Position
Salary

How much does a Public Relations Manager make?

The average salary for a Public Relations Manager is $118,512 per year in the US.

A Public Relations Manager plays a key role in shaping a company's public image. They help businesses connect with their target audience and maintain a positive reputation. Given this important task, it’s no surprise that Public Relations Managers earn a good salary. On average, they make about $118,512 per year. This average varies based on experience, location, and industry.

To give you a better idea, here are some typical salary ranges for Public Relations Managers:

  • Bottom 10% earn less than $46,051
  • Bottom 25% earn between $46,051 and $71,315
  • Middle 50% earn between $71,315 and $147,105
  • Top 25% earn more than $147,105
  • Top 10% earn more than $172,368
View Public Relations Manager jobs nearby

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

Job seekers looking for high-paying public relations manager positions may want to consider cities like Seattle, Washington, and San Francisco, California. These cities offer average salaries well above the national average, with Seattle leading at around $145,000. San Francisco follows closely with a salary close to $133,000. Other strong contenders include Austin, Texas, and Los Angeles, California. These cities offer competitive public relations manager salaries, with Austin at about $130,000 and Los Angeles around $110,000. These locations present excellent opportunities for those seeking higher earnings in their field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Public Relations Manager jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $145,234 and San Antonio, TX with the lowest at $61,120.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $145,234
    In Seattle, PR professionals often work with tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon. These companies rely on PR managers to maintain their public image and handle communications effectively. Seattle’s innovative spirit provides a dynamic environment for PR managers.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $133,535
    San Francisco is home to major tech companies, including Google and Facebook. PR managers here need to navigate the fast-paced tech industry and manage corporate communications. The city's culture of innovation supports PR professionals in creating impactful campaigns.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $130,750
    Austin offers a vibrant mix of tech startups and established companies. PR managers in Austin work to build strong relationships with clients and the community. The city’s creative atmosphere fosters unique PR strategies.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Austin, TX


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $110,783
    In Los Angeles, PR managers often work in the entertainment industry with companies like Disney and Warner Bros. These professionals help shape public perceptions of major brands. The city’s entertainment focus provides a dynamic backdrop for PR efforts.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $109,754
    Working in Washington, DC, PR managers handle communications for government agencies and political organizations. They need to navigate a complex political landscape. The city’s influence in national affairs offers unique challenges and opportunities.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $101,570
    Boston’s rich history in education and healthcare creates a distinctive environment for PR professionals. Working with institutions like Harvard and Boston Children's Hospital, PR managers craft messages that resonate with these audiences. The city’s academic heritage adds depth to PR strategies.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  7. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $93,169
    Chicago’s diverse economy, with sectors like finance and manufacturing, offers varied opportunities for PR managers. They work with companies such as Boeing and McDonald's. The city’s vibrant business community provides a robust setting for PR initiatives.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL


  8. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $80,005
    In Phoenix, PR managers support businesses in sectors like healthcare and technology. They often engage with local media and community events. The city’s growing business environment offers dynamic opportunities for PR professionals.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  9. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $77,171
    Las Vegas presents a unique setting for PR managers due to its entertainment and tourism industries. They work with major casino companies and event organizers. The city’s vibrant atmosphere offers exciting challenges for PR professionals.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  10. San Antonio, TX
    Average Salary: $61,120
    San Antonio offers a mix of businesses in sectors like healthcare and finance. PR managers here engage with local communities and major corporations. The city’s growth provides a stable environment for PR professionals to thrive.
    Find Public Relations Manager jobs in San Antonio, TX

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

Apple offers Public Relations Managers the highest average salary at $197,758 per year. This prestigious tech giant provides many opportunities for career growth and development. Amazon.com also stands out with an average salary of $151,699 for this role, known for its innovative and fast-paced environment. Highwire Public Relations offers an average salary of $97,500, a solid choice for those looking to specialize in the PR field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Public Relations Manager jobs, highlighting Apple with the highest at $197,758 and Highwire Public Relations with the lowest at $97,500.
  1. Apple
    Average Salary: $197,758
    Apple offers exciting opportunities for Public Relations Managers. They work across multiple locations, including Cupertino, California, and other global offices. The role involves managing Apple’s public image and communication strategies.


  2. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $151,699
    At Amazon, Public Relations Managers handle significant projects. They operate in key cities like Seattle, Washington, and other sites worldwide. This position demands strong skills in crisis management and brand storytelling.


  3. Highwire Public Relations
    Average Salary: $97,500
    Highwire Public Relations provides diverse opportunities for Public Relations Managers. They work in locations such as Washington, D.C., and other areas. This role focuses on crafting PR campaigns and client communications.

How to earn more as a Public Relations Manager?

A Public Relations Manager can increase their earnings through several key strategies. Focus on developing a solid skill set and gaining experience in the field. A strong background in communication and media relations helps secure higher positions. Building a professional network also plays a crucial role. Connections can lead to better job opportunities and salary negotiations. Seeking out leadership roles and taking on challenging projects can demonstrate capability and drive. These actions can lead to promotions and higher pay.

Staying current with industry trends and technologies is essential. Use tools and methods that improve efficiency and effectiveness. A Public Relations Manager who can show results and innovative ideas is more valuable. Consider obtaining certifications in specialized areas. This can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Networking at industry events and through professional organizations can open doors to higher-paying positions. Being proactive in career development and pursuing continuous learning will help in earning more.

Here are five factors that can help a Public Relations Manager earn more:

  1. Skill Development: Continuously improve skills in communication, media relations, and digital marketing.
  2. Professional Networking: Build and maintain a strong network of industry contacts.
  3. Leadership Experience: Take on roles that require leadership and project management skills.
  4. Staying Current: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in public relations.
  5. Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications to enhance job prospects and earnings potential.

Currently 84 Public Relations Manager job openings, nationwide.

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

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