The average salary for a Compliance Officer in the US is $110,000 per year.
Compliance Officers ensure that organizations follow laws, regulations, and internal policies. In the US, this role is critical across industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, and government. Salaries vary depending on regulatory complexity, industry exposure, and leadership responsibility. Professionals who manage large compliance programs and reduce legal or financial risk often earn higher compensation.
Salary Statistics: Compliance Officer (US)
| Salary Type | Annual Pay (USD) |
|---|---|
| Average Salary | $110,000 |
| Median Salary | $105,000 |
| Lowest Salary | $70,000 |
| Highest Salary | $180,000 |
Gender Pay Analysis in Compliance Officer
Gender pay differences for Compliance Officers in the US are influenced by industry, years of experience, and executive responsibility. Many organizations now use structured pay bands to reduce compensation disparities.
| Gender | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Compared to National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Male | $113,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Female | $107,000 | ▼ −3% |
| Non-binary / Not Disclosed | $110,000 | ▲ +0% |
The gap often narrows at senior leadership levels where compensation is more closely tied to regulatory accountability and program oversight.
Salary by Experience Level
Entry-Level
Entry-level Compliance Officers in the US typically earn around $70,000 per year. These roles focus on documentation, internal audits, policy reviews, and supporting senior compliance managers. Most professionals at this level have 0–2 years of experience. Building knowledge of regulatory frameworks and reporting processes is essential for advancement.
Mid-Level
Mid-level Compliance Officers usually earn between $95,000 and $130,000 per year. At this stage, professionals manage compliance programs, conduct risk assessments, and coordinate with legal teams. This level commonly requires 3–6 years of experience. Strong understanding of regulations and risk mitigation leads to consistent salary growth.
Senior Level
Senior Compliance Officers earn $150,000 or more per year, with top roles reaching $180,000 in large US organizations. These professionals oversee company-wide compliance strategy, manage teams, and ensure regulatory alignment at executive levels. Compensation reflects the responsibility of preventing legal penalties and financial risk.
Certifications and Skills for Compliance Officer
Certifications and regulatory expertise significantly influence a Compliance Officer’s salary in the US. Recognized credentials often increase earning potential.
Common Certifications
- Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)
- Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM)
- Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)
- Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Key Skills That Impact Salary
- Regulatory compliance and reporting
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Internal auditing
- Policy development
- Data privacy and governance
- Legal and regulatory research
Best-paying cities for Compliance Officer in the US
Compliance Officer salaries vary by city based on industry concentration and cost of living.
| City | Avg Salary (USD) | Compared to National Salary ($110,000) |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $130,000 | ▲ +18% |
| New York, NY | $121,000 | ▲ +10% |
| Seattle, WA | $118,000 | ▲ +7% |
| Boston, MA | $113,000 | ▲ +3% |
| Austin, TX | $106,000 | ▼ −4% |
| Atlanta, GA | $100,000 | ▼ −9% |
| Dallas, TX | $99,000 | ▼ −10% |
| Remote (US) | $111,000 | ▲ +1% |
| Chicago, IL | $102,000 | ▼ −7% |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is $90,000 a good salary for a Compliance Officer in the US?
Yes, $90,000 is competitive for early mid-level roles, particularly outside major metropolitan areas.
Can Compliance Officers earn over $150,000?
Yes, senior-level professionals and compliance directors in large organizations can exceed $150,000 annually.
Do certifications increase Compliance Officer salary?
Yes, certifications such as CAMS, CRCM, and CCEP often increase earning potential.
Are remote Compliance Officer roles common?
Yes, many compliance roles allow remote or hybrid work, depending on industry requirements.
What industries pay Compliance Officers the most?
Finance, banking, healthcare, and technology companies typically offer higher compensation.
How long does it take to become a senior Compliance Officer?
It typically takes 5–8 years of experience in compliance, audit, or regulatory roles.
Is compliance a stable career in the US?
Yes, regulatory requirements continue to grow, making compliance a stable and in-demand profession.
