Compensation & Benefits Specialist Salary in Columbus
Manages employee pay structures, benefits programs, and job classification systems.
Columbus ranks #188 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,222 above the national average.
Columbus vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $52,478 | $50,256 | +$2,222 | +4.4% |
| Level II | $64,626 | $61,931 | +$2,695 | +4.4% |
| Level III (Mid) | $76,794 | $73,605 | +$3,189 | +4.3% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $88,941 | $85,280 | +$3,661 | +4.3% |
Other metros in Ohio
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toledo | $53,955 | $93,475 | $80,434 |
| West Northwestern Ohio | $51,730 | $92,290 | $78,915 |
| Sandusky | $52,541 | $90,210 | $77,771 |
| Cleveland | $52,874 | $89,731 | $77,563 |
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek | $52,291 | $88,899 | $76,814 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Columbus?
The average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Columbus is $76,898 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbus at rank #188 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level compensation & benefits specialists earn in Columbus?
Entry-level compensation & benefits specialists (Level I) in Columbus earn $52,478 per year. Level II (early career) earns $64,626, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Columbus compare to the national average for compensation & benefits specialist salaries?
Columbus ranks #188 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,222 above the national average. The national average compensation & benefits specialist salary is $73,722, while Columbus workers average $76,898 — a difference of +4% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 13-1141.