Compensation and Benefits Managers Salary Guide 2025: $149,230 Median
Compensation and Benefits Managers oversee pay and benefits programs, a role that commands a national median salary of $149,230 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $162,640, or about $72 per hour. Most earn between $89,160 (10th percentile) and $256,570 (90th percentile).
How much Compensation and Benefits Managers earn
The median annual wage for Compensation and Benefits Managers is $149,230, with a mean of $162,640. That works out to roughly $72 per hour. The bottom 10% earn less than $89,160, while top earners make over $256,570.
- Employment: 22,940 jobs nationwide
- Top-paying industries: Professional, scientific, and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; manufacturing
Pay by state
Location heavily influences pay. Washington tops the list with an average wage of $199,190, followed by Connecticut at $197,970, Massachusetts at $184,070, New York at $175,620, and New Jersey at $168,370. On the lower end, South Carolina averages $99,630, Idaho $90,020, and Mississippi $89,250.
How to become a Compensation and Benefits Manager
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, finance, or a related field. Many also hold a master's degree, such as an MBA or a Master of Human Resource Management. Professional certifications like the Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) or Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) can boost credentials. Experience is critical: most roles require 5–10 years in HR or compensation roles, often starting as a compensation analyst or HR generalist.
- 1. Earn a bachelor's degree in HR, business, or finance
- 2. Gain experience in compensation analysis or HR roles (5+ years)
- 3. Consider a master's degree for advancement
- 4. Pursue certifications (CCP, CEBS) to stand out
- 5. Develop skills in data analysis, labor law, and strategic planning
Job outlook
Employment for Compensation and Benefits Managers is projected to grow by 0.2% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. That amounts to about 1,500 openings per year, largely from workers retiring or moving to other roles. Competition is expected for these well-paying positions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for Compensation and Benefits Managers?
The typical range is $89,160 (10th percentile) to $256,570 (90th percentile), with a median of $149,230.
What education do you need to be a Compensation and Benefits Manager?
A bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or finance is standard. Many managers also hold a master's degree and professional certifications like the CCP or CEBS.
Is Compensation and Benefits Manager a growing career?
Growth is very slow—0.2% over 2024–2034—but about 1,500 openings each year are expected due to turnover and retirements.
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 Compensation and Benefits Managers data.