Nonprofit Program Manager Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$66,000
national median salary
$50,000 to $86,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$92,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$69,000
Portland, OR
Lowest Paying
$50,000
Charleston, WV
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Nonprofit Program Manager salary in the United States is $66,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $50,000 at the 25th percentile to $86,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $92,000, while Portland offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Organization budget size is the strongest predictor, with managers at large national nonprofits earning 30 to 50% more than those at small community organizations.
Nonprofit Program Manager salary by city
Skills that increase Nonprofit Program Manager pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Nonprofit Program Managers based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $9,240 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$9,240 per year
≈ +$8,580 per year
≈ +$7,920 per year
≈ +$7,260 per year
≈ +$7,260 per year
≈ +$6,600 per year
≈ +$6,600 per year
≈ +$5,940 per year
What you should know
Organization budget size is the strongest predictor, with managers at large national nonprofits earning 30 to 50% more than those at small community organizations. Program area matters, with healthcare, education, and international development nonprofits paying more than arts or advocacy groups. Grant management experience and fundraising skills boost compensation.
Program coordinators start at $42,000 to $52,000. Program managers earn $60,000 to $80,000 after three to five years. Directors of programs reach $80,000 to $110,000, with VPs at large national nonprofits earning $110,000 to $160,000 or more.
Benefits vary widely by organization size. Large nonprofits offer competitive packages including retirement matching, health insurance, and generous PTO. Smaller organizations may offer flexibility, mission alignment, and student loan assistance through PSLF eligibility in lieu of higher base pay.