City Manager Salary (2025)
City managers oversee daily operations of local governments.
The median City Manager salary is $115,000 per year ($55/hour). Entry-level City Managers earn around $78,000 while experienced City Managers earn $175,000 or more annually.
City Manager salaries vary based on factors such as population size, regional economic conditions, and local government budgets. Specializations in urban planning and economic development tend to command higher salaries, often exceeding $175,000 in metropolitan areas. Regions with higher costs of living, such as California and New York, typically offer salaries above the national median of $115,000.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $115,000 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for City Managers
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $163,000 | +42% |
| California | $159,000 | +38% |
| New York | $147,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $144,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $144,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $138,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $136,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $132,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a City Manager
Most City Manager positions require: Master's in Public Administration. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
City Manager Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average City Manager salary?
The median City Manager salary is $115,000 per year, which works out to approximately $55/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level City Manager make?
Entry-level City Managers typically earn around $78,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior City Manager's salary?
Experienced City Managers can earn up to $175,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a City Manager?
Most City Manager positions require: Master's in Public Administration.