Average Salary in US for International Workers

Introduction

When considering relocation or employment opportunities in the United States, one of the most important factors international workers evaluate is salary. The average salary in US plays a major role in financial planning, cost-of-living adjustments, and career decisions for professionals moving across borders. Salaries not only vary by industry but also by region, skills, and work experience, making it essential for workers to have access to reliable data before committing to a job opportunity.

In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the average salary in the US for international workers. We will break down salaries across industries, highlight factors that influence pay, and explain how workers can navigate compensation packages when moving to the United States. This guide also emphasizes why choosing a trusted HR partner like 1EOR is crucial for ensuring fair employment contracts, compliance, and payroll accuracy when working abroad.

Key Factors Influencing Salaries in the US

Understanding the average salary in the US requires looking at several key factors that impact compensation. International workers should consider these aspects when negotiating offers or evaluating career opportunities.

Industry and Job Role

• The industry and job role significantly influence salary levels. For instance, technology, finance, and healthcare positions tend to offer higher wages compared to retail or hospitality. International workers with in-demand skills in fields such as software development, engineering, or nursing typically enjoy more competitive salaries.
• Some industries also provide unique incentives. For example, tech firms may provide stock options, while healthcare organizations often offer relocation packages and continuing education benefits. These additions increase overall compensation beyond base salaries.

Education and Skills

• Higher education and advanced certifications often lead to better salaries. Workers with specialized training or globally recognized certifications are more likely to secure higher-paying positions in the US job market.
• Professionals holding MBAs or certifications in finance (CPA, CFA) and IT (AWS, CISSP) often command higher-than-average pay. This highlights the importance of international workers investing in education and training to remain competitive.

Location and Cost of Living

• Salaries differ widely across states and cities. Metropolitan areas such as New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. tend to have higher average salaries, but they also come with higher living costs. On the other hand, cities in the Midwest may offer lower wages but come with significantly reduced expenses.
• For international workers, understanding regional pay differences is critical. A six-figure salary in California might sound attractive, but when combined with housing, healthcare, and transport costs, it may not stretch as far as a slightly lower salary in Texas or North Carolina.

Work Experience

• Experience plays a critical role in determining salaries. Entry-level international workers may earn less initially, but professionals with five to ten years of relevant experience often command significantly higher salaries and benefits packages.
• Senior-level professionals frequently benefit from performance bonuses, equity in the company, or executive perks. This makes career longevity and experience one of the most significant factors in salary growth for international workers.

Company Size and Structure

• Larger companies with established HR systems and international hiring programs often pay higher salaries compared to smaller businesses. Multinational corporations are also more likely to provide additional benefits, such as health insurance, relocation support, and retirement contributions.
• Smaller firms, however, may compensate by offering greater flexibility, faster promotion paths, or unique equity arrangements. International workers should weigh both immediate pay and long-term growth opportunities when evaluating employers.

Average Salaries in Different US Industries

Technology Sector

The technology industry consistently ranks among the highest-paying in the US. International workers in software engineering, cybersecurity, and data science can expect average salaries ranging from $90,000 to over $140,000 annually.

In addition, many tech professionals benefit from bonuses, stock options, and flexible work models, making this sector particularly appealing to international talent.

Healthcare Sector

Healthcare is another high-paying industry, especially for skilled professionals such as physicians, nurses, and pharmacists. Average salaries for healthcare roles range from $70,000 for registered nurses to over $200,000 for specialized doctors.

The US continues to face healthcare staffing shortages, ensuring stable demand and competitive salaries for international workers.

Finance and Banking

Finance professionals, including accountants, investment bankers, and financial analysts, earn strong salaries in the US. Average annual earnings often range between $75,000 and $150,000, depending on experience and expertise.

In major financial hubs such as New York, salaries can exceed $200,000 annually for senior-level bankers and analysts, especially when factoring in bonuses and performance incentives.

Engineering and Manufacturing

Engineers in fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering earn average salaries of $80,000 to $120,000. International workers in advanced manufacturing and aerospace engineering also see competitive pay due to high demand.

The push for infrastructure modernization and renewable energy has also increased the demand for engineers, creating strong salary growth opportunities.

Retail and Hospitality

Retail and hospitality offer lower wages compared to technical industries. Average salaries range from $30,000 to $50,000 annually. However, these sectors often provide accessible entry points for international workers seeking initial US experience.

Over time, international workers in these industries may progress into management or specialized roles that offer higher pay and stronger benefits.

Education Sector

Teachers, professors, and academic professionals earn average salaries ranging from $50,000 to $90,000 annually. International workers with advanced degrees or expertise in STEM fields often secure higher salaries, especially in universities and research institutions.

Why Salaries Differ for International Workers

Salaries for international workers may differ due to visa type, employment contracts, and compliance with labor laws. Some employers may offer relocation allowances or additional benefits to attract global talent. However, without proper guidance, workers risk being underpaid or misinformed about wage laws.

Partnering with an Employer of Record like 1EOR ensures fair salary practices, compliance with US employment regulations, and accurate payroll processing. This protects international workers from exploitation while helping businesses maintain a compliant workforce.

Salary Trends and Future Outlook in the US

The US job market is dynamic, and salary trends shift with economic conditions, technological advancements, and global workforce demands. Over the next decade, industries like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and healthcare are expected to drive salary growth.

Remote work has also impacted compensation. While remote jobs offer location flexibility, salaries may adjust based on the employee’s home region rather than the company’s headquarters. International workers should be mindful of how remote work agreements affect compensation.

Inflation and rising living costs have also led companies to increase base salaries and expand benefits. This trend is expected to continue as employers compete to retain international talent.

Why Choose 1EOR for Salary Compliance and Global Workforce Solutions

Navigating salary structures in a foreign country can be overwhelming. 1EOR helps international workers and companies bridge this gap with expert payroll management, compliance support, and HR solutions tailored for global teams. By ensuring accurate and fair compensation, 1EOR empowers international employees to thrive in the US job market while providing businesses with scalable workforce solutions.

With its expertise, 1EOR also helps companies manage complex cross-border employment challenges, ensuring international workers receive fair pay while businesses stay compliant with labor laws.

Conclusion

The average salary in US for international workers varies significantly depending on industry, location, and experience. High-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, and finance offer lucrative salaries, while other industries provide opportunities for growth and entry-level positions. Understanding these differences is key to making informed career decisions.

For international workers, partnering with 1EOR provides peace of mind. With its expertise in global payroll, compliance, and HR management, 1EOR ensures fair salaries and smooth employment transitions into the US market. Whether you are a company hiring internationally or a professional seeking opportunities, having the right partner makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the average salary in the US for international workers?

The average salary varies by industry, but international professionals in high-demand fields often earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually.

2. Do salaries differ for international workers compared to US citizens?

In most cases, salaries are based on role, experience, and industry rather than nationality. However, visa type and employment contracts may influence compensation.

3. Which US cities offer the highest salaries?

Cities like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle offer the highest salaries, particularly in technology and finance sectors.

4. What industries pay the most in the US?

Industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, and engineering typically pay the highest salaries to both domestic and international workers.

5. How does cost of living impact salaries in the US?

High-cost cities often pay higher wages, but expenses such as housing and transportation can offset the salary advantage.

6. Can international workers negotiate salaries in the US?

Yes, international workers can negotiate salaries. Strong skills, certifications, and experience strengthen negotiation power.

7. What benefits are typically included with salaries in the US?

Common benefits include health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, relocation support, and performance bonuses.

8. Does work experience impact salary in the US?

Yes, workers with more experience generally earn higher salaries, with senior professionals often doubling entry-level pay.

9. Are salaries higher in large companies compared to small businesses?

Yes, large companies typically pay more and offer better benefits compared to smaller organizations.

10. How does 1EOR help with salary compliance for international workers?

1EOR ensures payroll accuracy, compliance with US labor laws, and fair compensation practices for international employees.