Department Manager Salaries

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Department Manager make?

The average salary for a Department Manager is $57,338 per year in the US.

A Department Manager plays a key role in guiding teams and ensuring smooth operations. In today's job market, the average yearly salary for a Department Manager is around $57,338. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Some managers earn as low as $32,000, while others in top positions can make up to $128,050.


The breakdown of salaries shows that a significant portion of Department Managers earn between $40,732 and $66,927, highlighting opportunities for growth in this career. With dedication and experience, many can see their earning potential increase over time. Pursuing a position as a Department Manager can be rewarding, both personally and financially.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Department Manager?

San Jose, CA offers the highest average salary for Department Managers at about $116,444 per year, making it an attractive option for job seekers in this field. Following closely are Los Angeles, CA and Lakeland, FL, with average salaries of $96,934 and $90,973, respectively. Exploring these cities may lead to rewarding opportunities for those looking to advance their careers as Department Managers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Department Manager jobs, highlighting San Jose, CA with the highest at $116,444 and Greensboro, NC with the lowest at $74,885.
  1. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $116,444
    In San Jose, professionals enjoy the vibrant tech atmosphere while managing teams in retail and customer service. Companies like Apple and Cisco create a dynamic environment for rising leaders.
    Find Department Manager jobs in San Jose, CA


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $96,934
    Los Angeles offers a diverse landscape for team leaders in many industries, including entertainment and fashion. The presence of companies like Disney and Universal Studios makes this city an exciting place to grow your career.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Lakeland, FL
    Average Salary: $90,973
    Lakeland provides a unique small-town feel while being home to major companies such as Publix Super Markets. Leading a team here means engaging with a close-knit community and enjoying a warm climate.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Lakeland, FL


  4. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $89,732
    In Anchorage, managing teams can also mean connecting with nature. The city's economy is supported by sectors like tourism and oil, which allows for varied opportunities in leadership roles.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Anchorage, AK


  5. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $86,228
    Phoenix boasts a fast-growing population and economy, with companies like Intel and Banner Health leading the way. Managing a department here means contributing to a thriving community and enjoying plenty of sunshine all year long.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  6. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $84,368
    Orlando is famous for its theme parks and hospitality industry. Professionals in leadership roles can find rewarding opportunities with companies like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Orlando, FL


  7. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $79,038
    Fresno stands out with its agricultural roots and growing urban scene. Leading a department in this city can be fulfilling with its focus on community service and support for local businesses.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Fresno, CA


  8. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $78,731
    In San Francisco, professionals navigate a fast-paced environment rich in innovation and tech. Companies like Google and Salesforce drive the economy, providing exciting challenges for leaders looking to make an impact.
    Find Department Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA


  9. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $78,287
    Santa Rosa combines beautiful scenery with a strong economy in wine production and healthcare. Managing a department means enjoying a relaxed atmosphere while driving results in a supportive community.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  10. Greensboro, NC
    Average Salary: $74,885
    Greensboro offers a mix of manufacturing and service industries, making it a great place to lead teams. Local companies like Honda Aircraft and Cone Health allow for growth and development in various fields.
    Find Department Manager jobs in Greensboro, NC

What are the best companies a Department Manager can work for?

Department Managers at Kaiser Permanente enjoy the highest average salary at around $159,059, making it an attractive option for job seekers. Other companies like AAA Cooper Transportation and TForce Freight also offer competitive salaries of approximately $90,172 and $89,303, respectively. For those seeking rewarding opportunities, these companies lead the way in compensation for Department Manager roles.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Department Manager jobs, highlighting Kaiser Permanente with the highest at $159,059 and FedEx Freight with the lowest at $55,952.
  1. Kaiser Permanente
    Average Salary: $159,059
    Kaiser Permanente provides excellent opportunities for Department Managers, focusing on healthcare services. They operate in several regions across the United States, including California, Colorado, and Washington.


  2. AAA Cooper Transportation
    Average Salary: $90,172
    AAA Cooper Transportation values strong leadership in their Department Managers, ensuring smooth logistics and transportation services. They primarily operate in the Southeast and have a significant presence across several states.


  3. TForce Freight
    Average Salary: $89,303
    TForce Freight offers a dynamic work environment for Department Managers. They focus on freight solutions and have a national network, giving leaders opportunities for impact across various locations.


  4. GulfStream Aerospace
    Average Salary: $85,758
    At GulfStream Aerospace, Department Managers play a crucial role in the aerospace industry, ensuring high standards for aircraft manufacturing. They are based in Georgia but have a global market influence.


  5. Combined Insurance
    Average Salary: $77,317
    Combined Insurance provides opportunities for Department Managers to lead teams in the insurance sector. They operate throughout the United States and focus on delivering quality insurance products.


  6. Bob's Discount Furniture
    Average Salary: $66,325
    Bob's Discount Furniture employs Department Managers to oversee retail operations and customer satisfaction. They have locations across the Northeast and other regions in the U.S.


  7. Dayton Freight Lines, Inc.
    Average Salary: $65,703
    Dayton Freight Lines, Inc. values Department Managers who can lead teams in freight transportation. They operate mainly in the Midwest, ensuring efficient and reliable shipping services.


  8. Elwood Staffing
    Average Salary: $60,591
    Elwood Staffing offers great prospects for Department Managers in the employment services industry. They have branches throughout the U.S., providing staffing solutions to various businesses.


  9. Valvoline Express Care
    Average Salary: $56,021
    Valvoline Express Care seeks proactive Department Managers to run operations at their auto service centers. They have locations across the country, focusing on providing high-quality vehicle care.


  10. FedEx Freight
    Average Salary: $55,952
    FedEx Freight employs Department Managers to lead teams in logistics and freight shipping. They have a widespread presence across the United States, ensuring national delivery services.

How to earn more as a Department Manager?

As a Department Manager, increasing your earning potential involves strategic actions and a focus on key areas. Here are five factors that can help you earn more in your role:

  1. Expand Your Skill Set: Learn new skills relevant to your department. Consider training in leadership, budgeting, or project management. This knowledge makes you more valuable to your organization.
  2. Network Within Your Industry: Build relationships with other professionals. Attend industry events and connect on social media. Strong connections can lead to job offers and career advancement.
  3. Set Clear Goals: Establish specific performance goals for yourself and your team. Achieving these goals can demonstrate your effectiveness and may lead to promotions.
  4. Request Feedback: Regularly seek input from your supervisors and peers. Use their feedback for improvement. Showing your willingness to grow can position you for salary increases.
  5. Take Initiative: Proactively identify areas for improvement in your department and propose solutions. Being a problem solver can enhance your reputation and potential for raises.

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Currently 524 Department Manager job openings, nationwide!

How's the job market for a Department Manager in the US?

Learn what a Department Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Department Manager today.
Position
Overview
Department Manager
524 Job Openings