Human Resources Specialists Salary in Los Angeles, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
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In Los Angeles, California, Human Resources Specialists earn a median annual salary of $79,330, with a corresponding median hourly wage of $38.14. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $72,910, indicating that HR specialists in Los Angeles are compensated more generously compared to their counterparts across the United States. When examining how these earnings compare to local household income, it becomes evident that while a typical HR Specialist earns less than the area's median household income of $93,525, they still maintain a competitive financial standing within the region. This comparison highlights the demand for skilled professionals in human resources within Los Angeles and reflects the city’s relatively higher cost of living.
For Human Resources Specialists, there is a significant earning gap between entry-level and experienced workers, driven by factors such as years of experience, level of education, and specialized skills. Entry-level HR specialists typically earn around $48,880 annually, reflecting the 10th percentile mark. In contrast, those at the 75th percentile can expect to earn approximately $104,290 per year, while top earners in the 90th percentile may achieve salaries as high as $133,710. This disparity underscores the value of experience and advanced competencies within the field; experienced HR specialists often possess a deeper understanding of employment laws, strategic talent management, and organizational development, which are highly valued by employers. As such, career progression and continuing education in this domain can significantly enhance earning potential over time.
Salary percentile breakdown
Los Angeles economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Human Resources Specialists make per hour in Los Angeles?
The median hourly wage for Human Resources Specialists in Los Angeles, CA is $38.14, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $64.49 or more per hour.
Is Los Angeles above or below average for Human Resources Specialists salaries?
The median Human Resources Specialists salary in Los Angeles, CA is 8.8% above 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 Los Angeles?
Entry-level Human Resources Specialists (10th percentile) earn around $48,880 per year in Los Angeles, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $61,760.