Chief Executives Salary Guide 2025: Median $213,990, Outlook Strong
The median Chief Executive in the U.S. earns $213,990 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That national average masks a huge range: the top 10% pull in over $507,730, while the bottom 10% make about $75,700. With 204,350 executives employed nationally, this is not a massive occupation, but it pays exceptionally well and offers above-average job growth.
How much Chief Executives earn
The BLS reports an overall mean (average) wage of $269,630, translating to roughly $103 per hour. The typical salary range—from the 10th percentile to the 90th—spans $75,700 to $507,730. That 10th-percentile figure is still above the U.S. median for all occupations ($48,060 in 2023), but it's far below the typical CEO image. Many executives in small nonprofits, startups, or lower-revenue firms pull in salaries closer to that bottom end.
- National median annual salary: $213,990
- Mean annual salary: $269,630 ($129.63/hour)
- 10th percentile: $75,700
- 90th percentile: $507,730
- Total employment: 204,350
Pay by state
Location matters enormously. Oregon tops the list with an average annual salary of $341,630, followed by Washington at $339,810, Illinois at $331,920, North Carolina at $314,290, and Virginia at $310,740. These states often host large corporate headquarters or high-cost-of-living tech hubs. At the other end, Maine averages $138,770, New Mexico $123,500, and Arkansas $119,990. That’s a spread of over $220,000 between the highest- and lowest-paying states.
How to become Chief Executive
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like business administration, finance, or management. Many executives also hold an MBA or other advanced degree.
- Gain broad experience in management, often starting in entry-level supervisory roles and moving into director or vice president positions. 15–20 years of progressive responsibility is common.
- Develop industry-specific expertise and a track record of driving revenue, cutting costs, or leading teams. Networking and board visibility help.
- For some roles, professional certifications (e.g., CPA for finance executives) or licenses (e.g., in regulated industries) are required or preferred.
- The path is not linear; many executives come from different functions—sales, operations, finance—or even found their own companies.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of chief executives will grow 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 22,200 openings per year, most due to replacement of retiring executives. Competition remains intense, especially for top-paying posts at large firms, where a strong network and proven results are essential. The growth reflects continued need for leadership across industries, though some consolidation in certain sectors may slow hiring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for a Chief Executive in 2025?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median annual salary of $213,990 as of May 2023 (most recent data). The mean is $269,630.
What are the highest-paying states for Chief Executives?
Oregon ($341,630), Washington ($339,810), Illinois ($331,920), North Carolina ($314,290), and Virginia ($310,740) top the list. Lower-paying states include Arkansas ($119,990), New Mexico ($123,500), and Maine ($138,770).
What is the job outlook for Chief Executives?
Employment is projected to grow 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 22,200 openings annually. Most openings stem from retirement or turnover.
How do you become a Chief Executive?
Start with a bachelor's degree in business or a related field; an MBA is common. Gain 15–20 years of rising management responsibility, develop industry expertise, and build a strong professional network. Many also hold certifications or licenses relevant to their sector.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Chief Executives data.