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 quality. The average yearly salary for a purchasing agent is around $56,147. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the industry.
Purchasing agents can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience and where they work. For example, those with more experience often earn higher salaries. Similarly, agents in certain industries, like manufacturing or technology, may earn more than those in other sectors. Here are some common salary ranges for purchasing agents:
- Entry-level: $35,000 to $40,000
- Mid-level: $45,000 to $55,000
- Senior-level: $60,000 to $92,000
These figures show that with experience and skill, purchasing agents can earn a good living. It's a rewarding career for those who enjoy negotiating and managing supply chains.
What are the highest paying cities for a Purchasing Agent?

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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $95,122
In Santa Rosa, professionals find opportunities with companies like Sonoma International Airport. The role involves sourcing materials and negotiating contracts. The city's vibrant community adds to the work experience.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $72,805
Memphis offers a dynamic environment for procurement specialists. Companies like FedEx and AutoZone provide diverse opportunities. The role focuses on managing supply chains and ensuring quality.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $72,652
San Francisco's tech industry offers exciting roles. Companies like Apple and Salesforce need skilled agents. The role involves strategic sourcing and vendor management.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $70,264
In Washington, DC, procurement roles are vital for government and defense firms. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman seek skilled agents. The role is key to national security and infrastructure.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $68,207
Grand Rapids is known for its manufacturing sector. Companies like Amway and Steelcase offer stable roles. The focus is on cost-effective sourcing and maintaining supplier relationships.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $66,204
Colorado Springs offers a mix of military and tech opportunities. Companies like United States Air Force Academy and Lockheed Martin need procurement experts. The role involves managing defense contracts and supplies.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $66,094
Denver's growing tech scene provides many opportunities. Companies like Denver International Airport and Ball Corporation seek skilled agents. The role involves negotiating contracts and managing logistics.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $64,852
Seattle's tech hub offers exciting roles. Companies like Amazon and Boeing need procurement specialists. The role focuses on sourcing technology and managing supplies.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $64,623
San Diego's defense and tech industries offer diverse roles. Companies like General Atomics and Qualcomm need procurement experts. The role involves managing defense contracts and supply chains.
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Savannah, GA
Average Salary: $64,575
Savannah offers a mix of maritime and logistics roles. Companies like Gulfstream Aerospace and Port of Savannah need skilled agents. The role involves managing maritime supplies and logistics.
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What are the best companies a Purchasing Agent can work for?

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D.R. Horton
Average Salary: $76,671
D.R. Horton is a leading homebuilder in the United States. Purchasing Agents at D.R. Horton manage the procurement of materials and services for residential construction projects. The company operates in many states, including Texas, California, and Florida.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $75,704
The State of Colorado offers competitive salaries for Purchasing Agents. These professionals work to acquire goods and services for various state departments. The state operates across multiple locations, including Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder.
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Broward County Public Schools
Average Salary: $73,685
Broward County Public Schools is a large school district in Florida. Purchasing Agents here focus on buying educational supplies and materials. The district serves students in Broward County, with campuses in cities like Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach.
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Southland Industries
Average Salary: $70,623
Southland Industries is a major supplier of foodservice equipment. Purchasing Agents at Southland work to secure the best deals on kitchen supplies and equipment. The company has locations across the U.S., including Texas, California, and Illinois.
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Dream Finders Homes
Average Salary: $70,281
Dream Finders Homes is a homebuilding company known for its luxury homes. Purchasing Agents here manage the supply chain for building materials. The company operates in several states, including California, Florida, and Arizona.
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Imperial Dade
Average Salary: $67,152
Imperial Dade is a leading distributor of janitorial, food service, and food products. Purchasing Agents work to ensure the timely delivery of supplies. The company has a wide reach, serving locations in Florida, Texas, and California.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $59,091
Paramount Placement is a staffing agency that provides temporary and permanent employment solutions. Purchasing Agents here focus on sourcing and managing staffing needs. The company operates in multiple states, including New York, California, and Florida.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $58,833
The State of New Mexico offers a range of opportunities for Purchasing Agents. These professionals manage procurement for state agencies. The state operates across various locations, including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces.
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Average Salary: $57,288
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provides a stable environment for Purchasing Agents. These professionals handle the acquisition of goods and services for state entities. The state operates in cities like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg.
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Commonwealth of Kentucky
Average Salary: $55,057
The Commonwealth of Kentucky offers various roles for Purchasing Agents. These professionals work to secure materials and services for state departments. The state operates in cities such as Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green.
How to earn more as a Purchasing Agent?
Purchasing agents can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. They should aim to enhance their skills and knowledge to stay competitive. Attending workshops and obtaining certifications can lead to higher positions and better pay. Networking with other professionals can open up new job opportunities and salary negotiations.
Purchasing agents can also earn more by taking on additional responsibilities. This might include managing larger budgets or overseeing more complex projects. Demonstrating a strong ability to negotiate better deals with suppliers can lead to cost savings and higher bonuses. Being proactive in identifying and implementing cost-saving measures can also make a significant impact on earnings.
Here are some factors that can help a purchasing agent earn more:
- Skills and Certifications: Gain relevant skills and certifications to stand out.
- Networking: Build connections with other professionals to find new opportunities.
- Additional Responsibilities: Take on more tasks to show your value and potential for growth.
- Negotiation Skills: Improve your ability to negotiate better deals with suppliers.
- Cost-Saving Measures: Identify and implement ways to save money and improve efficiency.



