Project Manager pay
What project managers earn — and keep — in 2026
Project managers plan, coordinate and deliver projects across IT, construction, healthcare and business operations. The BLS puts the median project management specialist at $100,750 (May 2024), with the top 10% above $164,000. A PMP certification and experience in tech or construction tend to raise pay well above the median.
Where a project manager's paycheck goes
On the $100,750 median, a single PM sits in the 22% federal bracket after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. A 401(k) is the main tax lever — enter your annual contribution in the pre-tax field to lower federal taxable income.
The highest-paying states for project managers
Wages run highest in California, New Jersey, Washington, New York and Virginia. California and New York pay well but tax heavily, so a senior role in no-tax Texas or Washington can leave you with more take-home.
Compare project manager pay with other careers
See how a project manager compares with a software engineer, a marketing manager or a data analyst.
Questions
Project Manager Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a project manager make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $100,750 for project management specialists (May 2024). The top 10% earn over $164,000. Project managers with a PMP certification and experience in software, finance or construction typically earn the most.
What is a project manager's take-home pay on $100,750?
A single project manager earning the $100,750 median takes home roughly $78,000 to $80,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, and a few thousand dollars less where state income tax applies. Enter your own salary and state above for an exact figure.
Does a PMP certification raise project manager pay?
Generally yes. Surveys consistently show PMP-certified project managers earn more than non-certified peers, and the credential is often required for senior roles. Industry matters too — software, energy and finance PMs tend to out-earn those in nonprofit or government roles.
Which states pay project managers the most?
California, New Jersey, Washington, New York and Virginia report the highest average project-manager wages. California and New York pair high pay with high state income tax, while a senior role in a no-tax state like Texas or Washington maximizes take-home.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Project Management Specialists (median $100,750, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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