Public Affairs Officer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Public Affairs Officer in United States is approximately 86,038 USD (86,401 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 Public Affairs Officer do?

A Public Affairs Officer (PAO) is responsible for managing the communication and public relations activities of an organization, typically in the government or corporate sector. Their primary role is to develop and implement strategies that effectively communicate the organization's goals, policies, and initiatives to the public, media, and other stakeholders. PAOs often act as spokespersons, conducting interviews, writing press releases, and organizing media events. They collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and handle crisis communications, managing the organization's reputation during challenging times. Additionally, PAOs may engage in community outreach programs, coordinate public awareness campaigns, and monitor public opinion and media coverage. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with a keen understanding of media relations and public perception, are essential for success in this role.

Skills: Public Relations, Communications, Media Relations, Crisis Management, Government Affairs, Stakeholder Engagement
Job industry: Government

How much does Public Affairs Officer make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Public Affairs Officer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Public Affairs Officer 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 Public Affairs Officer?

High salary for Public Affairs Officer would be somewhere between 94,642 USD and 124,755 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Public Affairs Officer 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: 86,038 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 7,170 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,655 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 41 USD per hour
By working as Public Affairs Officer a person can save up to 4,920 USD per month or 59,041 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 Public Affairs Officer

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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