Lead Pastor salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Lead Pastor in United States is approximately 74,531 USD (74,341 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Lead Pastor do?

The occupation of a lead pastor involves providing spiritual leadership and guidance to a congregation or church community. They are responsible for leading worship services, delivering sermons, and teaching biblical principles. Lead pastors also provide pastoral care, counseling, and support to individuals within the church, including officiating weddings and funerals. They play a crucial role in developing and implementing the overall vision and mission of the church, working closely with other staff members and volunteers to create a vibrant and inclusive community. In addition, lead pastors often engage in community outreach, organizing and participating in events that promote social justice and meet the needs of the surrounding community. Their role requires strong leadership skills, effective communication abilities, and a deep understanding of theology and biblical teachings.

Skills: Lead Pastor, Spiritual Leadership, Worship Services, Sermons, Pastoral Care, Community Outreach
Job industry: Religious services

How much does Lead Pastor make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Lead Pastor a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Lead Pastor is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Lead Pastor?

High salary for Lead Pastor would be somewhere between 81,984 USD and 108,070 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Lead Pastor in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 74,531 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 6,211 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,433 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 36 USD per hour
By working as Lead Pastor a person can save up to 3,915 USD per month or 46,981 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Lead Pastor

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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