Chief Executives Salary in San Francisco, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA

Median annual salary $288,690 +39.9% vs national
Median hourly $138.79
10th percentile $100,340
90th percentile $558,310
Employed locally 5,190
National median $206,420

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Chief Executives
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    In San Francisco, CA, Chief Executives earn a median annual salary of $288,690, which is significantly higher than the national median for this occupation at $206,420. This substantial difference underscores the city's high cost of living and competitive business environment that often necessitates greater compensation packages to attract top talent. When compared to the local area’s median household income of $133,780, Chief Executives’ earnings are more than double, reflecting their pivotal role in leading organizations and contributing to San Francisco’s robust economic landscape.

    For entry-level Chief Executives in San Francisco, salaries start closer to the 10th percentile at around $100,340 annually. In contrast, experienced professionals who have climbed to the top of their field can earn well into the 90th percentile, with annual earnings reaching up to $558,310. The significant salary disparity between entry-level and seasoned executives is driven by factors such as accumulated industry experience, the size and scope of the company being managed, and proven success in strategic decision-making and business growth. These elements collectively contribute to higher compensation as executives demonstrate their capacity to significantly impact an organization's performance and profitability.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $100,340
    25th
    $172,900
    50th (median)
    $288,690
    75th
    $425,680
    90th
    $558,310

    San Francisco economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $133,780 2023 • Census ACS
    Chief Executives salary vs area income 216% Median Chief Executives salary is 116% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Chief Executives make per hour in San Francisco?

    The median hourly wage for Chief Executives in San Francisco, CA is $138.79, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $268.42 or more per hour.

    Is San Francisco above or below average for Chief Executives salaries?

    The median Chief Executives salary in San Francisco, CA is 39.9% above the national median of $206,420. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Chief Executives in San Francisco?

    Entry-level Chief Executives (10th percentile) earn around $100,340 per year in San Francisco, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $172,900.