Human Resources Certifications by Salary
Compare Human Resources certification salaries side by side. See which Human Resources credentials pay the most.
The rankings below are based on the salary outlook stated on each Human Resources certification profile. Figures reflect typical U.S. earnings for roles associated with the credential and are directional, not guarantees — actual pay varies with experience, region, employer, and local demand.
What tends to drive Human Resources pay higher: seniority and years of hands-on experience, narrow specialization, credentials stacked with related certs, and working in high-demand metro markets. Use the table to compare earning potential, then open any profile for the full cost-and-requirements picture.
| Rank | Certification | Level | Salary Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Professional in Human Resources (PHR) | Professional | PHR holders commonly earn $60,000–$85,000 in HR specialist and generalist roles. |
| 2 | SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) | Professional | SHRM-CP holders in the U.S. typically earn $55,000–$80,000 depending on role and region. |
| 3 | Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) | Foundational | Entry-level aPHR holders typically earn $40,000–$55,000 in coordinator and assistant roles. |
Back to all Human Resources certifications or view the overall salary ranking.