The complete guide to business salaries in 2026

Across 15 business roles, the median salary is $98K, and demand is growing about 15% a year. The top payer is Chief Executive Officer at $250K, the fastest-growing is Growth Manager (~28%/yr), and one of the most automation-resilient is Chief Executive Officer.

Highest-paying business roles

  1. 1Chief Executive Officer$250K/yr
  2. 2Chief Operating Officer$220K/yr
  3. 3Chief Technology Officer$215K/yr
  4. 4General Manager$128K/yr
  5. 5Growth Manager$118K/yr
  6. 6Management Consultant$115K/yr
  7. 7Business Development Manager$108K/yr
  8. 8Project Manager$98K/yr
  9. 9Diversity & Inclusion Manager$95K/yr
  10. 10Customer Experience Manager$88K/yr
See the full business ranking →

Plan your business pay

Chief Executive Officer pay by experience →How to negotiate a business salary →Business total comp: base vs bonus vs equity →Fastest-growing careers in 2026 →

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Common questions

What is the average business salary in 2026?

Across 15 business roles we track, the median salary is about $98K. The highest-paying is Chief Executive Officer at $250K; demand across the field is growing ~15% a year.

Which business job pays the most?

Chief Executive Officer leads at roughly $250K. See the full ranking for how the top roles compare.

Which business careers are growing fastest?

Growth Manager is the fastest-growing at ~28% a year, and Chief Executive Officer is among the most resilient to automation.

Figures from BLS-anchored medians across tracked roles; individual pay varies.