▼20%
$76,685
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$41k
MEDIAN
$77k
90%
$170k
The average salary for a City Manager is $76,685 in 2025
Base Salary
$41k - $170k
Bonus
$170 - $24k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $1k
Total Pay
$43k - $170k
Is Average City Manager with Microsoft Office Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for City Managers?
What Do City Managers Do?
City Manager Tasks
- Implement legislation enacted by elected officials and advise elected officials during the development of policies and ordinances.
- Supervise city department heads and administrative personnel.
- Oversee the preparation and administration of the annual city budget.
- Manage and coordinate the daily operation of city departments and services.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a City Manager
Medical
88%
Dental
67%
Vision
55%
None
12%
Gender Breakdown for City Managers
Male
73.9%
Female
26.1%
This data is based on 23 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About City Managers
What is the highest pay for City Managers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a City Manager is $170k / year
What is the lowest pay for City Managers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a City Manager is $41k / year
How can City Managers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a City Manager is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a City Manager that oversees more junior City Managers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.