Human Resources Managers Average Salaries

Jan 12, 2024

13 Min Read

1. How do human resource managers’ salaries compare to other management positions?


According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for human resource managers in May 2020 was $121,220. This is higher than the median annual wage for all management occupations, which was $109,760. However, the salary for human resource managers varies depending on factors such as job responsibilities, industry, and location.

Some HR manager positions, particularly those at larger companies or in industries such as finance and healthcare, may offer higher salaries due to their specialized skill set and responsibilities. On the other hand, smaller companies or those in less competitive industries may offer lower salaries for HR managers.

Overall, human resource managers tend to earn a comparable salary to other management positions but may have higher earning potential in certain industries or companies with more complex HR needs.

2. What factors influence the average salary of human resource managers?


1. Industry: The industry in which a human resource manager works plays a significant role in determining their salary. Industries that require highly specialized skills or have a high demand for talent may offer higher salaries.

2. Company size: Generally, larger companies have more complex HR needs and processes, which often require the expertise of experienced HR managers. These companies also tend to have bigger budgets and can offer higher salaries compared to small businesses.

3. Location: Salaries for human resource managers may vary depending on the cost of living in different locations. For instance, HR managers working in major cities or metropolitan areas may earn more than those working in rural areas.

4. Education and experience: Higher education levels and years of work experience are usually correlated with higher salaries for human resource managers.

5. Specialized skills and certifications: Human resource managers with specialized skills such as managing employee relations, labor laws, performance management, or talent acquisition may command higher salaries than those without these skills.

6. Job responsibilities: The scope of responsibilities assigned to an HR manager can affect their salary. Those who handle critical functions such as recruitment, talent retention, and employee development may earn more than those who focus on administrative tasks.

7. Performance-based incentives: Many organizations offer bonuses and incentives to HR managers based on their performance in achieving set metrics or goals related to company culture, employee engagement, or retention rates.

8. Economic conditions: In times of economic growth and low unemployment rates, there is typically a higher demand for skilled HR professionals which can drive up their salaries.

9. Negotiation skills: The ability to negotiate during job offers and performance reviews can also influence an HR manager’s salary package positively if done effectively.

10. Gender pay gap and discrimination: Unfortunately, there still exists a significant gender pay gap in the field of human resources with women often earning less than men for the same position with similar qualifications and experience.

3. Are there significant differences in salary between different industries for human resource managers?


Yes, there can be significant differences in salary between different industries for human resource managers. Salary can vary based on factors such as the size and location of the company, industry demand for HR professionals, and the level of responsibility and experience required for the role. Some industries, such as finance and technology, may offer higher salaries due to a higher demand for HR professionals with specialized skills and knowledge. Additionally, industries that are highly competitive or have a larger budget may also offer higher salaries to attract top talent in the HR field. Overall, salaries for HR managers can range from around $60,000 per year to over $150,000 per year depending on these various factors.

4. What level of education is typically required for a higher salary as a human resource manager?


Entry-level human resource managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in human resource management, business administration, or a related field. However, a higher level of education, such as a master’s degree in human resources or business administration, may be required for more senior-level positions and may lead to higher salaries. Additionally, certifications such as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) can also increase earning potential.

5. Is there a pay gap between male and female human resource managers?


Yes, there is a pay gap between male and female human resource managers. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, median weekly earnings for male human resource managers were $2,570 compared to $1,704 for female human resource managers. This translates to a gender pay gap of around 34%. Furthermore, a study by Glassdoor found that even when accounting for factors such as education, experience, and job title, there is an unexplained gender pay gap of 5.4% among human resource managers. This suggests that discrimination based on gender still exists in the field of human resources management.

6. How does the location or region affect the average salary for a human resource manager?


The location or region can greatly affect the average salary for a human resource manager. Factors such as cost of living, economic growth, industry demand, and competition for talent can all impact the salary offered to a human resource manager in a particular location.

In general, urban areas and major cities tend to have higher average salaries for human resource managers due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for experienced professionals. For example, a human resource manager working in New York City would likely earn more than someone in a smaller city or rural area.

Industries also play a role in determining salary levels for human resource managers. For instance, industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare often offer higher salaries due to their competitive nature and need for top HR talent.

Furthermore, regions or countries with strong economic growth and development may see an increase in demand for skilled HR professionals, driving up the average salary. On the other hand, regions experiencing economic downturns or with less competitive job markets may see lower salary averages for human resource managers.

Overall, location and region can significantly impact the average salary for a human resource manager as it is influenced by various factors related to cost of living, industry demand, and economic conditions.

7. Does company size play a role in determining the average salary for a human resource manager?


Yes, company size can play a role in determining the average salary for a human resource manager. Larger companies typically have larger human resource departments and more complex HR needs, which can lead to higher salaries for HR managers compared to smaller companies with fewer employees and simpler HR structures. This is not always the case, as factors such as industry and geographic location can also impact salary. However, on average, HR managers in larger companies tend to earn higher salaries than those in smaller companies.

8. Are there any specific certifications or qualifications that can increase a human resource manager’s salary?


Yes, there are several certifications and qualifications that can increase a human resource manager’s salary. Some of these include:

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute
2. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) from WorldatWork
3. Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans
4. Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
5. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute
6. Master’s degree in human resources management or a related field
7. Previous experience in a leadership or managerial role within HR
8. Specialized knowledge or expertise in areas such as labor relations, organizational development, or talent management
9. Additional language proficiency or international experience, depending on the company’s needs and operations.
10. Other relevant industry-specific certifications, such as healthcare compliance certifications for HR managers in the healthcare industry.
Overall, obtaining these certifications and qualifications can demonstrate advanced skills, knowledge, and dedication to the field of human resources and may result in higher earning potential for an individual in this role.

9. What is the average starting salary for someone entering the field of human resources management?


According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for human resources managers was $113,300 in May 2019. However, starting salaries can vary depending on factors such as level of education, industry, and location. Entry-level human resources management positions typically start at around $60,000 to $70,000 per year.

10. Do years of experience have an impact on the average salary for a human resource manager?


There is evidence to suggest that years of experience can have an impact on the average salary for a human resource manager. Generally, as a person gains more experience in the field, they may take on more responsibilities and tasks, leading to potential promotions and salary increases. Additionally, someone with more experience may also bring a higher level of expertise and value to their role, which can justify a higher salary.

According to PayScale’s most recent data (as of July 2021), the average salary for a human resource manager with less than 1 year of experience is $55,000. This increases to $66,000 for those with 1-4 years of experience, $75,000 for 5-9 years of experience, and $85,000 for more than 20 years of experience.

However, it is important to note that many other factors also play a role in determining the average salary for a human resource manager. These may include location, industry and company size. Years of experience alone may not be the sole determining factor in salary.

11. How do performance-based incentives or bonuses factor into the average salary for human resource managers?


Performance-based incentives or bonuses can significantly impact the average salary for human resource managers. These incentives are often tied to the individual’s job performance and can include bonuses, commissions, stock options, or profit-sharing programs.

In some cases, performance-based incentives may be a significant portion of an HR manager’s compensation, potentially increasing their average salary by several thousand dollars. This is because companies use these incentives as a way to motivate and reward top-performing human resource managers.

Additionally, many HR managers are responsible for managing employee compensation and benefits programs within their organizations. As such, they may also receive performance-based incentives based on cost savings or improvements made to these programs.

However, it is important to note that not all companies offer performance-based incentives or bonuses to their HR managers. Factors such as company size, industry, and individual job responsibilities may also play a role in determining if and how much an HR manager receives in additional compensation through performance-based incentives.

12. Is it common for human resource managers to receive additional perks or benefits in addition to their base salary?


Yes, it is common for human resource managers to receive additional perks or benefits in addition to their base salary. These can include bonuses, stock options, health and retirement benefits, company car or phone, flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, and other forms of compensation. These perks may vary depending on the organization and the individual’s job performance.

13. Are there any trends in how companies are compensating their HR managers, such as stock options or profit-sharing plans?


Yes, there are some trends in how companies are compensating their HR managers. Some of the common trends include offering stock options or equity as part of their compensation package, including performance-based bonuses tied to the company’s profitability, providing benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans, and allowing flexible work arrangements. Additionally, many companies are also offering non-traditional perks such as unlimited vacation days or remote work options as a way to attract top HR talent. However, the compensation structure may vary depending on the industry, company size, and location.

14. Does job title or job responsibilities affect the average salary for a human resource manager?


It is likely that job title and job responsibilities can affect the average salary for a human resource manager. Additional responsibilities and managerial roles may warrant higher salaries compared to entry-level or non-managerial positions. Likewise, a higher-ranking job title may also come with a higher pay grade. Factors such as industry, company size, and location also play a role in determining the average salary for a human resource manager.

15. Can previous industry experience lead to higher salaries for HR managers entering a new industry?


It is possible for previous industry experience to lead to higher salaries for HR managers entering a new industry. However, this will depend on various factors such as the level of experience, the specific skills and knowledge possessed by the individual, and the demand for those skills in the new industry. Having relevant experience in a particular industry may give HR managers an advantage in negotiating a higher salary as they may possess specialized knowledge and understanding of the unique challenges and needs of that industry. Additionally, if the new industry values the HR manager’s previous experience and sees it as a valuable asset, they may be willing to offer a higher salary to attract and retain top talent. Overall, while previous industry experience can potentially lead to higher salaries, it is not a guarantee and ultimately depends on the individual’s specific qualifications and market demand.

16. Are remote or virtual HR managers paid differently than those working on-site at a company’s headquarters?


It is possible that remote or virtual HR managers may be paid differently than those working on-site at a company’s headquarters. This ultimately depends on the company’s policies and practices, as well as the specific job responsibilities and experience of the HR manager. In some cases, remote HR managers may receive lower pay due to their lack of physical presence at the company’s location. On the other hand, they may also receive higher pay for their ability to work from a distance and manage global teams or handle complex projects.

17. What is the typical career progression and potential earning potential for someone starting as an entry-level HR manager?

The typical career progression for an entry-level HR manager would involve gaining experience and skills in a variety of HR functions, such as recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and compensation and benefits. As they gain more experience and advance in their careers, they may take on roles with more responsibilities, such as senior HR manager or HR director.

The potential earning potential for an entry-level HR manager varies depending on factors like industry, location, and company size. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for human resources managers was $116,720 as of May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $72,000 to over $190,000 per year. Additional factors that can impact earning potential include education level (e.g., having a master’s degree in HR or a related field), certifications (e.g., SHRM-CP or PHR), and years of experience.

18. Is there much variation in salaries between small, mid-sized, and large companies when it comes to HR manager positions?


The variation in salaries between small, mid-sized, and large companies can vary depending on a number of factors such as industry, location, and company structure. Generally, larger companies tend to offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits packages than smaller companies. However, smaller companies may offer more opportunities for hands-on experience and leadership roles.

According to data from Glassdoor, the average HR manager salary for small companies (1-50 employees) is $77,795 per year. For mid-sized companies (51-1000 employees), the average salary is $90,996 per year. And for large companies (over 1000 employees), the average HR manager salary is $112,525 per year.

It’s worth noting that these are average salaries and there can be significant variations within each category based on individual company policies and practices. Additionally, other factors such as cost of living in different regions or states can also impact the salary range offered by different sized companies.

19. Has the average salary for HR managers changed over time, and if so, what are possible reasons for this change?


Yes, the average salary for HR managers has changed over time. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for HR managers in the United States has increased steadily over the past decade. In 2010, the average annual wage was $108,600 and by 2020 it had risen to $133,000.

There are several factors that may contribute to this change:

1. Economic Trends: During periods of economic growth and low unemployment rates, companies are more likely to invest in hiring and retaining skilled HR managers which can drive up their salaries.

2. Demand for Skilled Professionals: The role of an HR manager has become increasingly complex and strategic in recent years, with a focus on not only traditional HR functions but also talent management, employee engagement, and workplace culture. As a result, there is a higher demand for highly skilled HR professionals who can command higher salaries.

3. Globalization: With companies expanding globally and managing teams across different countries and cultures, there is a greater need for experienced HR managers who can navigate international laws, regulations, and cultural norms. This specialized knowledge command higher salaries.

4. Changing Job Market: The job market for HR managers has become more competitive in recent years as technology continues to advance and transform the way companies manage their workforce. This places pressure on businesses to offer competitive compensation packages in order to attract top talent.

In summary, the increased demand for skilled HR managers combined with economic trends and advancements in technology have led to an increase in average salaries for these professionals over time.

20 .Are there any additional benefits besides competitive salaries that attract top talent to HR management positions?


1. Growth Opportunities: HR management offers a wide range of growth opportunities, including the chance to move up within the organization or take on new and challenging roles.

2. Diverse Industry Exposure: HR managers have the opportunity to work in different industries and gain exposure to a variety of business models, which can be appealing to candidates looking for a dynamic and diverse career.

3. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: Many companies offer flexible working arrangements and work-life balance policies for their HR managers, which can be attractive to professionals seeking a better work-life integration.

4. Impactful Work: HR managers have the potential to make a significant impact on an organization by shaping its culture, developing its talent, and driving business performance.

5. Creative Problem Solving: The role of an HR manager often involves solving complex people-related challenges, providing a sense of creativity and variety in their daily work.

6. Global Opportunities: With globalization, many organizations are expanding into international markets, creating opportunities for HR managers to gain global experience by managing a diverse workforce.

7. Constantly Evolving Field: As the job market continues to change rapidly, HR management requires staying ahead of emerging trends, making it an excellent field for continuous learning and personal development.

8. Job Security: The demand for skilled professionals in HR management is expected to increase in the future due to changing labor laws, increasing diversity awareness, and the focus on employee well-being–making it a secure career choice.

9. Employee Advocacy: Many HR managers are attracted to this profession because it allows them to advocate for employees’ rights and well-being while also advancing business goals.

10. Competitive Benefits Packages: In addition to competitive salaries, many organizations offer attractive benefits packages such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other incentives that make these positions more appealing to top talent.

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