As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Payroll Lead in Rhode Island is $89,912 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $43.
However, a Payroll Lead's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Payroll Lead'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 and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Payroll Lead'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 |
|---|---|
| Payroll A... Level Payroll Lead | $88,071 |
| Payroll A... Level Payroll Lead | $106,921 |
| Payroll L... Level Payroll Lead | $92,546 |
| Payroll S... Level Payroll Lead | $99,324 |
| Payroll M... Level Payroll Lead | $116,013 |
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 Payroll Leads. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Payroll Lead roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 100% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Business Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 50% above the average. In contrast, Payroll Lead positions in Biotechnology or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Payroll Lead as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace & Defense | $134,868 | $65.0 | 50% |
Understanding how a Payroll Lead'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 August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Payroll Lead job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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