Public Relations Specialist Salary in the United States
Based on 281K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$66,413
$31.929/hr
▲ 3.4% vs 2023Salary Range
$61K – $186K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
281K
workers nationwide
Public Relations Specialist salary in the United States averages $66,413 annually, according to current employment data. With approximately 280,810 workers in this field nationwide, PR specialists represent a substantial portion of the communications workforce. Salaries in this profession range considerably, from $60,990 at the lower end to $186,360 for top earners, reflecting significant variation across different career stages and work environments.
Several factors influence earning potential for PR professionals across the country. Experience level plays a critical role, with seasoned specialists commanding higher compensation than entry-level positions. Geographic location, company size, industry sector, and educational background also impact salary outcomes. Additionally, specialized expertise in crisis management, digital media, or corporate communications can lead to premium compensation packages compared to general public relations roles.
Salary Distribution — Public Relations Specialist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $60,990 |
| 25th percentile | $73,630 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $66,413 |
| 75th percentile | $133,830 |
| 90th percentile | $186,360 |
Public Relations Specialist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Public Relations Specialist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | $97,800 | +47.3% | 18K |
| 2 | Washington | $85,500 | +28.7% | 7K |
| 3 | Connecticut | $83,620 | +25.9% | 2K |
| 4 | California | $81,490 | +22.7% | 31K |
| 5 | New York | $78,510 | +18.2% | 26K |
| 6 | Virginia | $77,800 | +17.1% | 10K |
| 7 | Colorado | $77,120 | +16.1% | 7K |
| 8 | Utah | $75,700 | +14.0% | 3K |
| 9 | New Jersey | $75,640 | +13.9% | 6K |
| 10 | Delaware | $75,540 | +13.7% | 860 |
Historical Salary Trend — Public Relations Specialist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $63,165 |
| 2023 | $64,213 |
| 2024 | $66,413 |
Public Relations Specialist Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do public relations specialists make per hour in the United States?
- Public relations specialists earn a median of $32 per hour in the United States. This hourly rate is based on the median annual salary of $66,413, making it a competitive wage in the communications field.
What city pays public relations specialists the most?
- The District of Columbia offers the highest salaries for public relations specialists, with a median of $97,800 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $66,413, making it one of the most lucrative markets for this profession.
Is the salary range for public relations specialists wide?
- Yes, the salary range for public relations specialists is quite wide, spanning from $60,990 to $186,360 annually. This significant spread reflects differences in experience, location, industry, and employer size across the profession.
How many public relations specialists are employed in the US?
- There are approximately 280,810 public relations specialists employed in the United States, indicating a substantial and established field with considerable job market presence.