HR Manager Salary.
Across 30 U.S. cities.
$98,000
national median salary
$75,000 to $128,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$139,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$102,000
New York, NY
Lowest Paying
$87,000
Indianapolis, IN
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 HR Manager salary in the United States is $98,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $75,000 at the 25th percentile to $128,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $139,000, while New York offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Company size, industry, and HR specialization are the main factors.
HR Manager salary by city
What you should know
Company size, industry, and HR specialization are the main factors. HR managers at tech companies and financial institutions earn 15 to 25% more than those in retail or nonprofit. Specialists in compensation and benefits, talent acquisition, or people analytics command higher pay than generalists. SHRM or HRCI certification also adds value.
HR coordinators start at $48,000 to $62,000, advancing to HR manager at $85,000 to $120,000 in three to five years. Senior HR managers earn $115,000 to $150,000. HR directors reach $150,000 to $200,000, and VPs of People or CHROs at mid to large companies can earn $250,000 to $400,000.
Bonuses of 8 to 15% are standard, often tied to retention metrics, engagement scores, or hiring targets. Equity is available at tech companies, adding $10,000 to $40,000. Benefits packages for HR managers are typically among the best at any company, reflecting their role in designing those same packages.