As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Public Policy Advisor in the United States is $74,133 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.
However, a Public Policy Advisor's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Public Policy Advisor'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.
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 Public Policy Advisors. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Public Policy Advisor roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Business Services, offers compensation 20% above the average. Conversely, Public Policy Advisor positions in Financial Services typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Public Policy Advisor as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Services | $88,959 | $43.0 | 20% |
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Public Policy Advisors enter the field with a Associate'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 Public Policy Advisor with a Associate's Degree is between $67,701 and $73,294).
Public Policy Advisor Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 16.7% |
| High School | 16.7% |
| Associates | 16.7% |
| Bachelors | 50.0% |
| Masters | 16.7% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Public Policy Advisor'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 July 01, 2026Salaries for a Public Policy Advisor can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $72,059 in 2023 to around $72,038 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Public Policy Advisor salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $72,059 |
| 2024 | $72,268 |
| 2025 | $72,038 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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