Human Resources Specialists Salary in Madison, WI
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Madison, WI
Compare Human Resources Specialists salary & buying power
Type a city below to see how Madison, WI stacks up on salary and cost of living.
In Madison, WI, Human Resources Specialists have a median annual salary of $75,250, which is slightly above the national median of $72,910 for this occupation. When compared to the local area's median household income of $86,827, it becomes evident that while HR specialists earn a competitive wage within their profession, many households in Madison still outpace them financially. This discrepancy highlights the broader economic landscape in which multiple occupations contribute to higher overall household earnings, suggesting that supplementary incomes or dual-earning households are common.
For entry-level Human Resources Specialists in Madison, WI, salaries tend to start closer to the 10th percentile at around $50,700 annually, while more experienced professionals can earn up to the 90th percentile with wages reaching approximately $112,130 per year. This significant variance is driven by factors such as years of experience, expertise in specialized HR functions, and additional certifications or educational qualifications that enhance an individual's value within the field. As specialists advance in their careers, opportunities for salary growth become more pronounced, reflecting increased responsibilities, leadership roles, and contributions to organizational success.
Salary percentile breakdown
Madison economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Human Resources Specialists make per hour in Madison?
The median hourly wage for Human Resources Specialists in Madison, WI is $36.18, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $51.17 or more per hour.
Is Madison above or below average for Human Resources Specialists salaries?
The median Human Resources Specialists salary in Madison, WI is 3.2% 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 Madison?
Entry-level Human Resources Specialists (10th percentile) earn around $50,700 per year in Madison, WI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $61,030.