Project Manager vs Management Consultant: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Project Manager
Plan, execute, and close projects on time and within budget.
Management Consultant
Advise organisations on strategy, operations, and performance improvement.
Management Consultant earns more on average — the national median is $48,664/year (48%) higher than a Project Manager. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Project Manager vs Management Consultant — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Project Manager | Management Consultant | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $153,305 | $214,912 | Project $61,607 |
| New York, NY | $124,250 | $186,470 | Project $62,220 |
| Seattle, WA | $149,604 | $217,650 | Project $68,046 |
| Austin, TX | $112,715 | $167,101 | Project $54,386 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,133 | $159,412 | Project $50,279 |
| Boston, MA | $130,013 | $194,443 | Project $64,430 |
| London, UK | £74,138 | £115,523 | Project $41,385 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$135,689 | CA$198,500 | Project $62,811 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Manager or Management Consultant earn more?+
A Management Consultant earns more on average. The national median salary for a Project Manager is $102,320/year, compared to $150,984/year for a Management Consultant — a difference of $48,664 (48%).
Which has better career growth — Project Manager or Management Consultant?+
Project Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Management Consultant demand is growing at 14% YoY. Management Consultant has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Project Manager to Management Consultant?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Project Manager or Management Consultant?+
Management Consultant has a lower AI automation risk (22% vs 32%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.