Fundraising Managers Salary 2025: $125,470 Median, 4.2% Growth
Fundraising Managers in the U.S. earn a median salary of $125,470, with a mean of $140,020 — roughly $60 per hour. The typical range runs from $75,130 at the 10th percentile to $222,350 at the 90th, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2025, the role remains a strong financial bet in the nonprofit sector.
How much Fundraising Managers earn
The national median for Fundraising Managers is $125,470 per year. Half earn more than that, half less. The top 10% bring in over $222,350, while the bottom 10% make $75,130 or below.
These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Pay varies by experience, organization size, and geography — the next section breaks out state-level differences.
Pay by state
New York tops the list at $169,510 average annual wage. New Hampshire ($157,080), Rhode Island ($155,970), Massachusetts ($151,740), and Virginia ($143,730) also pay well above the national mean.
Lower-paying states include Mississippi ($82,620), West Virginia ($74,400), and Arkansas ($71,110). Cost of living is a factor — these states also have smaller nonprofit sectors.
How to become Fundraising Manager
Most Fundraising Managers hold a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field. Many also have a master’s in business or nonprofit administration.
Typical entry is through fundraising coordinator or development associate roles. The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential is common but not required. Starting in donor relations or grant writing builds the skills needed to manage campaigns and teams.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (communications, business, or nonprofit management).
- Gain 3–5 years fundraising experience in coordinator or associate roles.
- Consider CFRE certification to strengthen candidacy.
- Develop skills in data analytics, major gift solicitation, and volunteer management.
Job outlook
Employment of Fundraising Managers is projected to grow 4.2% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 3,600 job openings per year, mostly from replacement needs as current managers retire or move on.
The BLS expects strong demand as nonprofits and educational institutions expand their fundraising operations. Digital giving and planned giving programs are driving the need for skilled managers who can oversee diversified revenue streams.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Fundraising Manager in 2025?
The national median is $125,470. The bottom 10% earn $75,130; the top 10% earn $222,350.
How do I become a Fundraising Manager?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree and several years of fundraising experience. Certifications like CFRE can help. Typical progression is from coordinator to manager role.
Is Fundraising Manager a growing career?
Yes. The BLS projects 4.2% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 3,600 openings per year — faster than average.
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 Fundraising Managers data.