Public Relations Manager Salary 2025: $146,910 Median, Top States Pay Over $190K
Public Relations Managers earned a median $146,910 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage hits $164,760, or about $71 per hour. Pay ranges widely: the lowest 10% make $82,410, while the top 10% pull in $284,990. Employment stands at 74,850, with 6,600 new openings expected each year through 2034.
How much Public Relations Managers earn
The median salary of $146,910 is well above the national average for all occupations. Mean annual wages of $164,760 reflect the top earners pulling the average higher. The bottom 10th percentile earns $82,410, typically entry-level or smaller markets. Top earners at the 90th percentile make $284,990, often in major metros or agency leadership roles.
Experience, industry, and location drive variability. PR managers in corporate communications, tech, or finance tend to earn above the median. Those in government or nonprofits may see lower figures, but still above the U.S. average.
Pay by state
District of Columbia leads at $197,600 mean annual wage, followed by New York at $180,880, Virginia at $176,340, New Jersey at $174,980, and Massachusetts at $171,740. These states have high-cost metropolitan areas and concentration of large corporations or government affairs.
Lower-paying states include Oklahoma ($96,030), Louisiana ($94,380), and West Virginia ($82,380). Salaries in these states often reflect lower cost of living and smaller PR markets. If you can relocate, the pay gap between highest and lowest states exceeds $115,000.
How to become Public Relations Manager
Most PR managers hold a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or marketing. Some employers prefer a master’s degree, especially for senior roles. Relevant coursework includes media relations, crisis communication, strategic planning, and writing.
Experience is critical. Typical entry is as a PR specialist or account coordinator, then moving to account manager or director. Many PR managers have 5–10 years of progressive experience. Certifications like the APR (Accreditation in Public Relations) can boost credentials but are not mandatory. Strong writing, media pitching, and digital analytics skills are essential.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in PR, communications, or related field.
- Gain 5–10 years of experience in PR roles, often starting as a specialist.
- Develop a portfolio of media placements and campaign results.
- Consider earning the APR certification for career advancement.
- Stay current with digital PR tools, social media, and data analytics.
Job outlook
Employment for PR managers is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. About 6,600 openings are expected annually, many from workers retiring or moving to other roles. Demand is driven by organizations’ need to manage public image, social media, and crisis communication. Digital media and data analytics skills are increasingly valued. Best opportunities will be in large cities with high media density.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Public Relations Manager in 2025?
The median salary is $146,910, with a mean annual wage of $164,760. Typical range is $82,410 to $284,990 (10th–90th percentile). These are BLS estimates for 2024.
How do I become a Public Relations Manager?
You need a bachelor’s degree in PR or communications, plus 5–10 years of experience in PR roles. Many start as specialists. Certifications like APR help but aren’t required. Strong writing and digital skills are key.
Is the job outlook good for Public Relations Managers?
Yes, growth is 5% from 2024–2034, faster than average, with 6,600 new openings yearly. Digital media and crisis management skills boost prospects.
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 Public Relations Managers data.