Public Relations Managers Salary in California (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
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Overview
The median wage for public relations managers in California is $167,980 per year (gross, before tax) — 14.3% above the US national median of $146,910 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 9,000 people work in this occupation in California. Negotiating an offer in California? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
California Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $97,800 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $125,550 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $167,980 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $222,310 | Experienced |
| 90th | $300,800 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How California Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $197,600 | +34.5% |
| New York | $180,880 | +23.1% |
| Virginia | $176,340 | +20.0% |
| New Jersey | $174,980 | +19.1% |
| Massachusetts | $171,740 | +16.9% |
| California | $167,980 | +14.3% |
| Maine | $166,940 | +13.6% |
| Colorado | $162,870 | +10.9% |
| Washington | $159,440 | +8.5% |
| Rhode Island | $156,080 | +6.2% |
All states for public relations managers →
Recommended Gear & Prep
Interviewing in California? Interview prep books cover the common question sets.
All salaries in California · UK data for this occupation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a public relations managers in California?
The median salary in California is $167,980 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $185,180.
How does California pay compare to the US national average?
California is 14.3% above the US national median of $146,910 for this occupation.
Which US state pays public relations managers the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for this occupation at $197,600 per year. See the state comparison table above for more.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25