Human Resources Specialists Salary in Columbus, OH

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Columbus, OH

Median annual salary $71,420 -2% vs national
Median hourly $34.34
10th percentile $43,610
90th percentile $118,580
Employed locally 7,890
National median $72,910

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Human Resources Specialists
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Columbus, OH
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    In Columbus, OH, Human Resources Specialists have a median annual salary of $71,420, which is slightly below the national median of $72,910 for this occupation. Comparatively, the area's median household income stands at $79,847, indicating that the earnings for these specialists are somewhat lower than the average local household income. This discrepancy highlights how specialized roles in human resources may not always align with broader economic conditions within a region. Despite this, Columbus maintains a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.00%, suggesting robust job opportunities overall in various sectors, although specific demand for HR specialists remains steady at an estimated employment level of 7,890.

    For Human Resources Specialists in Columbus, entry-level salaries typically fall around the 10th percentile mark, with earnings starting as low as $43,610 annually. In contrast, more experienced professionals can expect to earn significantly higher wages; those in the 75th percentile make approximately $93,920 per year, while top earners at the 90th percentile may reach up to $118,580 annually. This substantial wage gap is driven by a combination of factors including years of experience, level of education, specialized skills, and the complexity or size of the organization where one is employed. As professionals gain more expertise and take on additional responsibilities such as strategic planning and compliance management, their earning potential increases correspondingly.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $43,610
    25th
    $53,850
    50th (median)
    $71,420
    75th
    $93,920
    90th
    $118,580

    Columbus economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $79,847 2023 • Census ACS
    Human Resources Specialists salary vs area income 89% Median Human Resources Specialists salary is 11% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Human Resources Specialists make per hour in Columbus?

    The median hourly wage for Human Resources Specialists in Columbus, OH is $34.34, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $59.86 or more per hour.

    Is Columbus above or below average for Human Resources Specialists salaries?

    The median Human Resources Specialists salary in Columbus, OH is 2% below the national median of $72,910. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Human Resources Specialists in Columbus?

    Entry-level Human Resources Specialists (10th percentile) earn around $43,610 per year in Columbus, OH. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $53,850.