How much does a Purchasing Agent make?
Purchasing agents play a key role in businesses by managing the buying of goods and services. They work to ensure that the company gets the best deals while maintaining good supplier relationships. The average yearly salary for a purchasing agent is around $55,628. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
Purchasing agents can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience. For example, those with less than a year of experience might earn around $34,000. As experience grows, so does the salary. Those with 10 or more years in the field can earn up to $89,316 per year. This range shows that with more experience, purchasing agents can expect to see higher earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Purchasing Agent?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $72,439
In San Francisco, professionals find a dynamic market for procurement roles. With tech giants like Apple and Salesforce, the demand for skilled agents is high. The city offers a competitive salary and a vibrant work environment.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $70,264
Washington, DC, is a hub for government and defense contracts. Working here means dealing with major companies like Lockheed Martin. The role offers stability and a chance to impact national projects.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $68,207
Memphis provides a balanced cost of living with a growing job market. Companies like FedEx rely on efficient procurement. It's a place where agents can grow and make a significant impact.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $67,138
Colorado Springs offers a mix of military and tech industries. Working here means collaborating with firms like Northrop Grumman. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $65,693
Denver's economy thrives on tourism and tech. Companies like Denver International Airport need skilled agents. The city offers a high quality of life and a growing job market.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $65,101
Minneapolis is known for its corporate headquarters and diverse industries. Working here means interacting with companies like Target. The city offers a good balance of work and leisure.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $65,010
San Jose is a tech powerhouse, home to companies like Intel and Apple. Professionals here enjoy a fast-paced environment with plenty of opportunities for career advancement.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $64,181
Seattle offers a mix of tech and aerospace industries. Companies like Boeing and Amazon create a competitive market. The city's culture and lifestyle make it a desirable place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $64,010
San Diego combines a strong defense industry with tech startups. Working here means collaborating with firms like Qualcomm. The city's pleasant climate and beaches add to the appeal.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $63,594
Des Moines offers a stable job market with a focus on agriculture and insurance. Companies like Principal Financial Group provide solid opportunities. The lower cost of living makes it an attractive choice.
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What are the best companies a Purchasing Agent can work for?

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D.R. Horton
Average Salary: $78,240
D.R. Horton is a leading homebuilder in the United States. Purchasing Agents at D.R. Horton manage the procurement of materials and services. They work in various locations across the country, including Texas, Florida, and California.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $75,662
The State of Colorado offers competitive salaries for Purchasing Agents. These professionals handle the purchasing of goods and services for state departments. They work in locations such as Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder.
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Broward County Public Schools
Average Salary: $74,494
Broward County Public Schools is one of the largest school districts in the nation. Purchasing Agents here manage procurement for educational materials and services. They operate in various locations within Broward County, Florida.
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FTS Inc
Average Salary: $73,500
FTS Inc is a global supply chain solutions provider. Purchasing Agents at FTS Inc work on sourcing and procurement for various industries. They are located in major cities across the United States, including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
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Dream Finders Homes
Average Salary: $69,467
Dream Finders Homes is a custom homebuilder. Purchasing Agents here focus on acquiring materials and services for home construction. They work in locations such as Arizona, California, and Nevada.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $67,157
The State of Iowa provides a solid salary for Purchasing Agents. These professionals manage procurement for state agencies. They work in various locations across Iowa, including Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.
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Imperial Dade
Average Salary: $65,602
Imperial Dade is a leading distributor of janitorial, sanitation, and food service products. Purchasing Agents here handle the procurement of supplies. They operate in multiple locations across the United States.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $59,091
Paramount Placement is a staffing and recruiting firm. Purchasing Agents at Paramount Placement manage procurement for staffing needs. They work in various locations across the country, including New York and California.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $58,833
The State of New Mexico offers a competitive salary for Purchasing Agents. These professionals handle the procurement of goods and services for state departments. They work in locations such as Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
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The Building People
Average Salary: $58,410
The Building People is a construction company. Purchasing Agents here manage the procurement of materials for construction projects. They operate in various locations across the United States, including Texas and Florida.
How to earn more as a Purchasing Agent?
Purchasing agents play a crucial role in managing a company's supply chain. They ensure that the right materials are bought at the right time and price. To earn more in this role, consider these key factors that can enhance your value and salary potential.
Firstly, gaining specialized certifications can significantly boost your earning potential. Certifications such as Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) or Certified Professional Exporter (CPE) demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. These credentials can make you more attractive to employers and open up higher-paying opportunities.
Secondly, developing strong negotiation skills is essential. Effective negotiation can lead to better pricing and terms for the company, which can result in higher bonuses or salary increases. Learning to navigate supplier contracts and understand market dynamics will make you a valuable asset.
- Certifications: Obtain specialized certifications like CPP or CPE.
- Negotiation Skills: Develop strong negotiation abilities to secure better deals.
- Technology Proficiency: Stay updated with the latest procurement software and tools.
- Networking: Build relationships with industry professionals and suppliers.
- Continuous Learning: Keep learning about market trends and best practices.



