TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Program Manager Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$316,061/yr
Typical range: $268,555 – $330,225
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Program Manager salary by experience level in San Francisco
Program Manager Salary Progression in San Francisco
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $145,217 | $12,101 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $179,386 | $14,949 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $202,165 | $16,847 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $234,056 | $19,505 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $316,061 | $26,338 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $396,358 | $33,030 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $416,432 | $34,703 | +187% |
Current Salary
$316,061
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $152/hr
Next Level Target
$396,358
Principal · 14
+$80Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
47/100
Below Average
+15% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Program Manager salary in San Francisco, CA?
Staff / Lead Program Managers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $316K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Program Manager make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $316K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $152/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Program Manager in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Program Manager in San Francisco, CA earns $269K–$330K/yr.