Public Relations Specialist Salary in San Francisco, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Creative · COL Index: 179.6
$98,460
Median Salary
$109,070
Mean Salary
$54,822
COL-Adjusted
6,040
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $58,240 | $32,428 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,300 | $41,370 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $98,460 | $54,822 |
| 75th Percentile | $138,980 | $77,383 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $167,340 | $93,174 |
What Drives the Range
The $109,100 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Public Relations Specialist positions in San Francisco, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Francisco, CA's cost-of-living index of 179.6 means that a $98,460 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $54,822 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.