How Much Do Project Managers Make? The Shocking Truth Behind the Salary Ranges
How much do project managers make? The average salary for project managers in the United States is between $90,000 and $116,000. However, if you play your card right you really could earn a lot more. Because you’re exposed to so many different roles, professions, and job functions in managing each project, you develop a very unique skillset with an understanding of how business operates behind the scenes.
That kind of insight makes you valuable across multiple industries and trust me, companies will pay for it. It's a career path with real financial range and plenty of variables that can either boost your paycheck or leave it feeling… underwhelming.
From industry and certifications to your ability to actually lead a cross-functional team without losing your mind, I’m breaking down what determines your earning potential and why some project managers are securing the bag while others are still being lowballed. Let’s get into it.
But first let’s talk about salary transparency.
Women of Project Management Conference (Breakout Session with Dr. Syreeta Bond)
One of the biggest gaps in this industry isn’t just pay; it’s access to honest conversations about pay. That’s why I always recommend joining the Women of Project Management™ membership.
It’s a safe space where you can connect with other women (especially Black women) who aren’t afraid to keep it real about how much they’re making, how they got there, and what they wish they knew earlier. The Little Black Book of Project Management Advice – Special Edition — Women Of Project Management
If you’ve ever felt awkward asking, “Is this salary normal?” or “Should I be making more?”. This is the place where you’ll finally get answers without the side-eye.
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What Actually Impacts Your Salary as a Project Manager?
Industry Matters
Not all industries are built the same. A project manager working in healthcare or tech will likely bring home way more than someone managing projects in education or the nonprofit space. If you're wondering why you’re capping out at $60K while someone else is casually clocking six figures, it’s likely due to industry.
Experience and Seniority
Years of experience do matter, but what you've done during those years matters more. If you’ve spent five years just “helping out” on projects vs. leading them from scoping to completion, those paychecks will reflect that. Seniority isn’t just about time; it’s about impact.
Location, Remote Work, and Cost of Living
Geography still plays a role; even in a remote world. A remote job based in California might offer higher pay than a local gig in Atlanta. But don’t just chase the high number; always consider taxes, benefits, and cost of living when negotiating.
Case in point, a higher salary in Los Angeles paired with California’s state income tax, federal tax, and even some city-specific taxes could still leave you with less take-home pay than someone earning less in Florida. Florida only taxes you federally.
Meanwhile, Atlanta hits you with federal and Georgia state taxes, which aren’t as aggressive as California, but still eat into your check.
Certifications and Specializations
Project Management Professional (PMP), ScrumMaster, or Agile certifications can seriously pad your paycheck. Employers love seeing proof that you can talk the talk and walk the walk, especially when it comes to frameworks that save time and money.
Company Size and Budget
That boutique design agency with a ping-pong table and free LaCroix might be fun, but it probably won’t touch the salary or bonus structure of a tech giant managing multi-million dollar initiatives.
Big companies usually mean big checks. Meanwhile, smaller teams might give you more creative control but fewer commas in your paycheck.
By, Airess Rembert, PMP, Member of Women Of Project Management & Blogger at The Nerd Bae
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Join the full discussion inside the Women Of Project Management Membership. Listen to part of our conversation on the Women Of Project Management Podcast.
If you're new to our community, Women Of Project Management is the only community created to support & amplify the voices of women & women of color in every specialty of the project management industry worldwide. We support women in every stage of their career, learn more at Women Of Project Management
