Chief Executives: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 211,850 chief executives, and they earn a median of $206,420/year. The range runs from starting around $74K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level chief executives start around $74K. The gap between that and the median ($206K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $232K | 570 |
| California | $221K | 36,980 |
| Pennsylvania | $221K | 14,140 |
| New York | $219K | 7,830 |
| Michigan | $219K | 3,940 |
| Rhode Island | $212K | N/A |
| Wisconsin | $209K | 4,440 |
| Ohio | $209K | 4,430 |
| Nebraska | $206K | 2,790 |
| Indiana | $206K | 2,200 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a chief executives make?▼
The median chief executives salary in the United States is $206,420 per year ($99/hour). Entry-level positions start around $73,710, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a chief executives?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for chief executives?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for chief executives.
What are the highest paying states for chief executives?▼
The highest paying states for chief executives are Hawaii ($231,500), California ($220,600), Pennsylvania ($220,510), New York ($219,320), Michigan ($219,230). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.