Postmasters and Mail Superintendents Salary 2025: Median $96,660, Outlook -3.5%
Postmasters and Mail Superintendents earn a median $96,660 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That’s about $46 per hour. The top 10% make $111,740 or more, while the bottom 10% earn $85,090. These figures come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ OEWS survey for 2024.
How much Postmasters and Mail Superintendents earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $96,660, with a mean annual wage of $97,360. Typical pay ranges from $85,090 at the 10th percentile to $111,740 at the 90th percentile. Most workers are paid a flat salary rather than hourly, but the hourly equivalent hovers around $46.
Pay varies primarily by location and by the size of the postal facility managed. Superintendents at large processing centers tend to land in the top percentile, while postmasters in small rural offices often earn near the bottom of the range.
Pay by state
Florida tops the list at $102,880 average, followed closely by California ($101,150) and New Jersey ($101,100). Rhode Island ($99,900) and Tennessee ($99,170) round out the top five. On the lower end, Montana pays $88,920, Wyoming $88,040, and Alaska $59,340. Alaska’s low figure likely reflects a high proportion of part-time or small-office postmasters.
- Highest: Florida ($102,880), California ($101,150), New Jersey ($101,100)
- Lowest: Montana ($88,920), Wyoming ($88,040), Alaska ($59,340)
How to become Postmasters and Mail Superintendent
Most postmasters and mail superintendents start as postal clerks or mail handlers and work their way up. A high school diploma is the minimum requirement, though many successful candidates have some college coursework or an associate degree. Supervisory experience, either inside the USPS or from outside, is critical. The USPS typically selects postmasters from internal candidates who pass a competitive exam and background check.
There is no specific license required, though a valid driver’s license and U.S. citizenship are usually necessary. New hires undergo on-the-job training covering postal regulations, personnel management, and financial reporting. Promotions to larger offices or superintendent roles often require additional years of experience and demonstrated leadership.
- Start as a postal clerk or mail handler
- Gain supervisory experience
- Pass USPS competitive exam and background check
- Complete on-the-job training
- Progress through internal promotions
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of postmasters and mail superintendents will decline 3.5% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 480 jobs. Despite the decline, roughly 900 openings per year arise due to retirements and transfers. Current employment stands at 13,810. The long-term trend reflects declining mail volume as digital communication substitutes for traditional mail.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a postmaster in 2025?
The national median salary is $96,660 per year, according to BLS data. The range is $85,090 to $111,740.
How do you become a mail superintendent?
Start as a postal clerk or mail handler, gain supervisory experience, and pass the USPS internal exam. No college degree is required, but it helps.
Is postmaster a declining career?
Yes, employment is projected to shrink 3.5% over the next decade. However, about 900 openings per year will still occur from turnover.
Which states pay postmasters the most?
Florida ($102,880), California ($101,150), and New Jersey ($101,100) are the top-paying states.
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 Postmasters and Mail Superintendents data.