Fundraiser Salary Guide 2025: Median Pay Hits $72,550, Growth 4.3%
Fundraisers in the U.S. earn a median salary of $72,550 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent data. The average annual wage is $77,200, or about $35 an hour. The typical range runs from $46,630 at the 10th percentile to $115,820 at the 90th — meaning top earners pull in well over six figures.
This isn't just a feel-good career. The occupation employs 111,040 people nationwide, and the BLS projects 4.3% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all jobs. That translates to roughly 10,200 openings per year, mostly from workers leaving or retiring.
How much Fundraisers earn
The national median salary for fundraisers is $72,550, meaning half earn more and half less. The average (mean) wage is $77,200, pulled upward by higher-paid positions. Hourly, that's about $35. Entry-level fundraisers at the 10th percentile make around $46,630. Experienced fundraisers at the 90th percentile can earn $115,820 or more. Salaries vary by industry: fundraisers in colleges and universities, for example, often earn above the median, while those in small nonprofits may start lower.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The District of Columbia tops the list with an average salary of $80,840, followed by New York ($80,540), Maryland ($79,780), California ($79,710), and Massachusetts ($79,060). At the lower end, Mississippi averages $57,610, West Virginia $54,760, and Arkansas $50,190. The spread between D.C. and Arkansas is over $30,000, largely reflecting cost-of-living and concentration of major nonprofits.
How to become Fundraiser
The typical path starts with a bachelor's degree, often in communications, public relations, marketing, or nonprofit management. No specific license is required, but the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential can boost credibility and pay. Entry-level roles like development assistant or annual giving coordinator are common first steps. Many fundraisers gain experience in sales or customer service first. On-the-job training is standard, and larger organizations may offer formal mentorship.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (common majors: communications, marketing, nonprofit management)
- Get experience through internships or entry-level development roles
- Consider CFRE certification after a few years (optional but valued)
- Build skills in donor research, grant writing, and CRM software
Job outlook
The BLS projects 4.3% employment growth for fundraisers from 2024 to 2034, faster than the 4% average for all occupations. That's partly because nonprofits, universities, and healthcare organizations increasingly rely on professional fundraising. About 10,200 job openings are expected annually, mostly to replace workers who retire or move to other fields. Competition can be strong in high-paying metro areas, but demand is steady nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a fundraiser in 2025?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $72,550 and a mean of $77,200. The bottom 10% earn about $46,630, while top earners make over $115,820.
How do I become a fundraiser with no experience?
Start with a bachelor's degree (any field, but communications or nonprofit management helps). Then apply for entry-level roles like development assistant or annual giving coordinator. Volunteer work with nonprofits also builds relevant experience.
What is the job growth outlook for fundraisers?
The BLS projects 4.3% employment growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. About 10,200 openings per year are expected, mostly from turnover.
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 Fundraisers data.