How much does a Regulatory Affairs Director make?
A Regulatory Affairs Director plays a key role in ensuring that companies comply with laws and regulations. This role often comes with a rewarding salary. On average, a Regulatory Affairs Director earns about $199,356 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
The salary range for this position can be quite broad. At the lower end, some directors earn around $117,500 annually. As experience and expertise grow, salaries can reach up to $292,150 per year. This wide range reflects the importance of the role and the value companies place on regulatory compliance.
What are the highest paying cities for a Regulatory Affairs Director?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $224,762
In San Jose, a hub for tech giants, professionals navigate regulatory landscapes for cutting-edge companies. The city's vibrant tech scene offers dynamic opportunities for those managing regulatory compliance. Companies like Apple and Cisco provide a robust environment for regulatory affairs.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $214,012
San Francisco's financial and tech industries create a demanding yet rewarding environment for regulatory experts. The city's focus on innovation means professionals must stay ahead of regulatory changes. Major firms like Salesforce and Uber offer exciting challenges.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $213,673
San Diego's blend of biotech and defense sectors makes it a unique place for regulatory affairs. Professionals here work closely with cutting-edge companies. The city's strong research institutions provide a rich environment for regulatory work.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $207,108
Boston's rich history in education and healthcare creates a specialized market for regulatory affairs. The city's numerous hospitals and research institutions offer diverse opportunities. Companies like Biogen and Genzyme are prominent employers.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $181,612
Indianapolis, known for its automotive industry, offers a stable environment for regulatory professionals. The city's focus on manufacturing means a strong demand for regulatory expertise. Companies like Eli Lilly and Cummins provide solid career paths.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $177,318
Philadelphia's diverse economy, from healthcare to finance, offers varied opportunities for regulatory affairs. The city's historic institutions and modern companies create a unique regulatory landscape. Firms like Merck and Independence Blue Cross are key players.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $171,691
Washington, DC's political and regulatory environment makes it a prime location for regulatory affairs. The city's focus on policy and government creates a high demand for regulatory experts. Major firms and government agencies offer significant career opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Regulatory Affairs Director can work for?

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EPM Scientific
Average Salary: $253,676
EPM Scientific offers a dynamic role for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They focus on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates globally, with key locations in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Regeneron
Average Salary: $248,650
At Regeneron, Regulatory Affairs Directors play a key role in ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. They work in various locations, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Gilead Sciences
Average Salary: $226,574
Gilead Sciences provides a rewarding environment for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They focus on regulatory strategy and compliance. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Average Salary: $222,021
Takeda Pharmaceuticals offers a competitive salary for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They work on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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AstraZeneca
Average Salary: $210,208
AstraZeneca provides a stable environment for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They focus on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Sanofi
Average Salary: $200,544
Sanofi offers a rewarding role for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They work on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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AbbVie
Average Salary: $199,854
AbbVie provides a competitive salary for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They focus on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $195,000
Piper Companies offers a dynamic role for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They focus on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $194,745
Abbott provides a stable environment for Regulatory Affairs Directors. They work on regulatory compliance and strategy. The company operates in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
How to earn more as a Regulatory Affairs Director?
A Regulatory Affairs Director plays a key role in ensuring that companies comply with laws and regulations. This role can be very rewarding, both in terms of job satisfaction and salary. To maximize earnings in this position, consider these important factors.
First, gaining experience in the field is crucial. Directors with more years of experience often command higher salaries. Working with different types of products and industries can also provide valuable skills. Second, obtaining advanced certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications such as the Certified Regulatory Affairs Professional (CRAP) can make a candidate more competitive. Third, networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help build these connections. Fourth, specializing in a high-demand area can increase salary. Areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotechnology often offer higher pay. Finally, seeking a position with a company that values regulatory affairs can lead to higher earnings. Companies that prioritize compliance and regulatory strategy may offer more competitive salaries.
By focusing on these factors, a Regulatory Affairs Director can work towards earning a higher salary. Experience, certifications, networking, specialization, and company value all play a role in achieving higher pay.
- Gain experience in the field
- Obtain advanced certifications
- Network with other professionals
- Specialize in a high-demand area
- Seek positions with companies that value regulatory affairs



