Project Manager Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $127,039 | |
| California | $122,059 | |
| Massachusetts | $121,573 | |
| New York | $114,501 | |
| Washington | $113,463 | |
| Alaska | $113,415 | |
| New Jersey | $112,621 | |
| Connecticut | $112,320 | |
| National Median | $98,580 |
How to Become a Project Manager
Project management specialists coordinate the budget, schedule, and people needed to deliver projects on time.
Meet the education requirement
Most project managers enter the field with bachelor's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Project Management Professional (PMP)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $65,063 and rises toward $143,927 with experience.
Project Manager salary: common questions
How much does a Project Manager make an hour?
The median hourly wage for project managers is $47.39, which works out to about $98,580 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays project managers the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for project managers at $127,039 per year — 29% above the national median of $98,580.
What is the salary range for project managers?
Most project managers earn between $65,063 and $143,927 per year. The middle 50% earn $79,850 to $122,239, with a median of $98,580.
Is becoming a Project Manager a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 7% (faster than average), and the role typically requires bachelor's degree. With a median wage of $98,580 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.