How much does a Purchasing Agent make?
Purchasing agents play a key role in the supply chain by buying goods and services for companies. Their work ensures that businesses run smoothly and efficiently. They earn a respectable salary for their important duties. The average yearly salary for a purchasing agent is about $56,471. Many agents find their work rewarding and look forward to growing in their careers.
Purchasing agents earn different amounts based on their experience and the industry they work in. Some earn less, while others earn more. The data shows that most agents make between $40,238 and $71,666 a year. The lower end usually goes to those just starting out. As they gain experience, their pay often goes up. Veterans in the field can earn $82,142 or more annually. These higher salaries show the value companies place on skilled purchasing agents.
What are the highest paying cities for a Purchasing Agent?

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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $75,969
In Memphis, working in purchasing involves sourcing materials for prominent businesses in the logistics sector. Companies like FedEx and AutoZone present opportunities to manage inventory and negotiate contracts. The city's central location provides a strategic edge for suppliers.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $70,845
Washington, DC, offers a dynamic environment for purchasing professionals, especially in government contracting. Companies such as General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin require agents to secure materials efficiently. The city's blend of corporate and government roles provides a rich market for expertise.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $68,681
Grand Rapids is a hub for manufacturing, making it ideal for purchasing agents to work with companies like Amway and Steelcase. The city's focus on innovation and quality presents a robust market for sourcing materials and negotiating with suppliers to meet production needs.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $66,975
Colorado Springs offers a mix of military and tech-driven opportunities for purchasing agents. Working with companies such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin, agents here manage procurement for high-tech defense projects. The city's vibrant economy supports growth in this field.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $66,152
Denver's growing tech and tourism sectors create a strong market for purchasing agents. With companies like Amazon and United Airlines, professionals here source goods and services to meet the needs of these large organizations. The city's lively business environment offers numerous career opportunities.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $65,464
Savannah provides a slower-paced yet rewarding environment for purchasing roles. Companies such as Gulfstream Aerospace and the Port of Savannah require agents to manage procurement for aviation and maritime needs. The city's blend of tradition and growth makes it a unique place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $65,188
San Diego offers a diverse market for purchasing professionals, especially in the biotech and defense industries. Working with companies like Qualcomm and BAE Systems, agents here play a crucial role in securing materials for cutting-edge projects. The city's innovation-driven economy provides ample opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $64,852
Seattle's tech scene, led by companies like Amazon and Boeing, creates a vibrant market for purchasing agents. Professionals here manage procurement for high-tech projects and large-scale production. The city's focus on innovation makes it an exciting place to work in purchasing.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $63,738
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a dynamic environment for purchasing agents. Companies such as Intel and Apple require sourcing materials for tech advancements. The city's fast-paced tech industry offers many opportunities for growth and development in this field.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $63,316
Madison provides a balanced market for purchasing roles, with opportunities in education and healthcare. Working with organizations like the University of Wisconsin and SSM Health, agents here manage procurement for diverse needs. The city's strong community focus creates a supportive work environment.
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What are the best companies a Purchasing Agent can work for?

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D.R. Horton
Average Salary: $76,705
D.R. Horton offers rewarding Purchasing Agent roles across the United States. As one of the leading homebuilders, the company focuses on quality and innovation in its operations, creating numerous opportunities for Purchasing Agents in various locations.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $74,321
The State of Colorado provides stable and competitive salaries for Purchasing Agents. These professionals work in different government departments, ensuring efficient procurement processes across state agencies, with opportunities in cities like Denver and Colorado Springs.
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Dream Finders Homes
Average Salary: $70,667
Dream Finders Homes is a well-known homebuilder with multiple locations in Texas, Arizona, and Florida. Purchasing Agents here play a key role in managing procurement activities to support the company's growth and development.
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Southland Industries
Average Salary: $70,623
At Southland Industries, Purchasing Agents work in essential areas such as manufacturing and logistics. The company operates in several states, providing diverse opportunities for procurement professionals.
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Imperial Dade
Average Salary: $66,878
Imperial Dade, a leading distributor of janitorial, food service, and restroom supplies, offers Purchasing Agent positions that involve managing supply chains across multiple regions. This role is crucial for ensuring smooth operations.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $59,091
Paramount Placement provides Purchasing Agent roles with a focus on recruitment and staffing services. The company has offices in various cities, offering a dynamic work environment for procurement professionals.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $58,352
The State of New Mexico provides competitive salaries for Purchasing Agents who work in different state departments. Opportunities are available in cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, ensuring a range of professional experiences.
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Average Salary: $57,307
Purchasing Agents in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania support various government agencies. Opportunities span across cities such as Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, offering a diverse and fulfilling career path.
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Commonwealth of Kentucky
Average Salary: $55,036
The Commonwealth of Kentucky offers roles for Purchasing Agents within its state government. With offices in cities like Louisville and Lexington, this role is vital for ensuring efficient procurement processes.
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Aston Carter
Average Salary: $54,335
Aston Carter provides staffing solutions and offers Purchasing Agent positions across various industries. This company operates in multiple locations, providing flexible and dynamic career opportunities.
How to earn more as a Purchasing Agent?
Being a Purchasing Agent can lead to a rewarding career with plenty of opportunities for growth. If you aim to earn more in this field, consider these key factors that can help boost your earnings. A Purchasing Agent should focus on increasing skills, gaining experience, and making strategic career moves to achieve higher pay.
Start by investing in continuous learning. Companies value Purchasing Agents with advanced skills and certifications. Specialized training in procurement, supply chain management, or related areas can lead to higher-paying positions. Also, experience is vital. Working in a Purchasing role for several years builds expertise. Gaining experience in various industries can make a candidate more versatile and attractive to employers. Networking within the industry opens doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attend industry events and join professional organizations to connect with others in the field.
Consider these steps to earn more as a Purchasing Agent:
- Obtain relevant certifications and training.
- Gain experience in different industries.
- Network with professionals in the field.
- Stay updated with market trends.
- Seek roles in high-demand areas or regions.



