As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Student Union Manager in the United States is $63,748 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $31.
However, a Student Union Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Student Union Manager's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Student Union Manager's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Student Union Manager | $59,755 |
| Intermediate Level Student Union Manager | $60,234 |
| Senior Level Student Union Manager | $61,831 |
| Specialist Level Student Union Manager | $65,732 |
| Expert Level Student Union Manager | $67,881 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Student Union Managers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Student Union Managers enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Student Union Manager with a Bachelor's Degree is between $66,746 and $73,228).
Student Union Manager Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 10.0% |
| High School | 40.0% |
| Associates | 10.0% |
| Bachelors | 40.0% |
| Masters | 50.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Student Union Manager's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Student Union Manager, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Student Activities Director | $61,355 | -4% |
| International Student Affairs Director | $64,102 | 1% |
| Campus Recreation Senior Manager | $68,880 | 8% |
| VP of Student Affairs | $149,975 | 135% |
Salaries for a Student Union Manager can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $60,360 in 2023 to around $61,066 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Student Union Manager salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $60,360 |
| 2024 | $61,352 |
| 2025 | $61,066 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Student Union Manager and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Student Union Manager's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Student Union Manager earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Student Union Manager is $80,405.
The highest pay for Student Union Manager is $84,908.
The lowest pay for Student Union Manager is $43,302.
Manages the daily operations of the Student Union. Responsible for managing all functions including coordinating facility use, administering student services and activities, and ensuring proper safety and security measures. Collaborates with various campus departments, including student affairs, campus safety, and other relevant offices to ensure the Student Union effectively supports the broader campus community. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a director. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1-3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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