Human Resources Workers earn $76,700 median: salary, outlook, and how to join the field
Human Resources Workers earn a national median salary of $76,700, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates. The mean wage is $83,090, or roughly $37 per hour. Half of all HR workers earn between $47,240 (10th percentile) and $129,930 (90th percentile). With nearly 977,550 people employed in the occupation across the U.S., HR remains a large and stable field.
How much Human Resources Workers earn
The median annual wage for Human Resources Workers is $76,700. The top 10% earn more than $129,930, while the bottom 10% earn less than $47,240. The mean hourly wage is $37.
Pay varies by experience, industry, and location. Entry-level roles like HR assistant or coordinator often start near the lower end, while senior specialists, managers, and directors reach the higher end.
Pay by state
The BLS does not provide state-level data for this occupation in the latest release. However, HR workers in higher-cost regions like the Northeast and West Coast typically earn above the national median, while those in the South and Midwest may earn below. For precise state figures, consult the BLS OEWS database.
How to become Human Resources Worker
Most HR jobs require a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, psychology, or a related field. Some entry-level positions accept an associate degree or relevant experience.
Certifications such as the SHRM-CP or PHR can boost your resume and are often preferred by employers. Many HR professionals gain experience through internships or administrative roles before specializing in areas like recruitment, benefits, or employee relations.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in HR or a related field (4 years).
- Consider a certification: SHRM-CP or PHR (requires exam).
- Gain entry-level experience: HR assistant, recruiter, coordinator.
- Advance through experience and possibly a master’s degree for senior roles.
Job outlook
The BLS has not published a specific growth projection for Human Resources Workers for 2024–2034. Generally, HR roles are expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations, as companies continue to need specialized staff for recruiting, compliance, and employee management.
Frequently asked questions
Is 76,700 a good salary for Human Resources Workers?
The median $76,700 is above the U.S. median for all occupations ($48,060), so it is a solid middle-class income. Actual buying power depends on your location and experience.
What is the lowest salary for an HR worker?
The bottom 10th percentile earns $47,240 or less. Entry-level roles like HR assistants often start near this figure.
How many Human Resources Workers are there in the US?
The BLS estimates 977,550 people work as Human Resources Workers nationally as of May 2024.
Do I need a degree to become an HR worker?
Most positions require a bachelor’s degree, though some entry-level jobs accept an associate degree or equivalent experience. Certifications like SHRM-CP can help.
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 Human Resources Workers data.