What Is the Average Customer Success Manager Salary in the US?

 Did you recently receive a job offer for a customer or client success manager (CSM)? Or, perhaps, you are thinking of a career pivot into this field. Regardless of where you are in the job search process, you're probably curious about how much this role earns.

The average salary for a customer success manager ranges from $108,000 to $220,000. The range is wide because of several factors that can influence it.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the yearly wage of a client success manager. It aims to help you plan your career and find better-paying jobs.

Customer Success Manager Salary Structure

The salary structure for a customer success manager typically consists of several components that together form the total compensation package. Here’s a breakdown of the common structures:

• Base salary: The fixed annual income that forms the foundation of a CSM’s earnings. It provides stability and predictability in earnings.
• Base + bonus: In this structure, CSMs receive a base salary along with performance-based bonuses. These bonuses can be tied to specific metrics such as customer retention rates, customer satisfaction scores, or achievement of personal and team goals.
• Base + variable pay: This includes a base salary and additional variable pay components, such as commissions and incentives. Variable pay can be based on metrics like upsell and cross-sell success, expansion of customer accounts, and overall revenue contributions.

Customer Success Manager Salary Breakdown

Wondering how much money does a client success manager make in the United States? Here's a closer look:

National Average Salary for Customer Success Managers

The average total compensation of a customer success manager in the US is between $108,000 and $220,000. This figure already includes cash bonuses, stock shares, and tips from customers.

Meanwhile, the base salary for this job title varies from $66,000 to $118,000.

The range of these numbers is wide because many factors affect the total pay. For example, CSMs with higher education, such as a Master's degree, can demand higher wages than those who have completed a college degree.

Client Success Manager Salaries by Experience Level

Experience can also affect the average yearly pay client success managers receive.

An entry-level CSM with one to four years of experience can earn between $66,000 and $97,000 annually.

A mid-career CSM with five to nine years of experience has an average annual salary of $71,000 to $117,000.

Finally, a senior CSM who has been working for more than ten years enjoys a yearly wage of $76,000 to $220,000.

Customer Success Salary Ranges Based on Industry

The salary of a customer success manager can also vary depending on the industry where they work.

For example, CSMs in the information technology sector earn significantly more than those in the arts and entertainment industry.

Client success managers in the tech job market have a total pay of $122,000 to $205,000. In contrast, CSMs in arts earn around $79,000 to $131,000.

Average Customer Success Manager Salary by Location

Location is another factor that affects the average salary of a customer success manager.

According to Built In, CSMs living in San Francisco and New York City earn higher salaries than those in cities like Chicago.

For example, CSMs working in San Francisco enjoy an average salary of $107,000. However, those in Chicago earn less at $87,000.

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FAQs About Customer Success Manager Salary

What does a customer success manager do?

A customer success manager is often regarded as the bridge between a business and its clients. They make sure customers get the most out of the company’s services or products. Their daily tasks include onboarding new clients, providing ongoing support, and working closely with the customer success team to address any issues.

How do I negotiate a higher salary as a customer success manager?

If you think you deserve a higher salary, you can highlight your achievements, such as improving customer retention rates. You should also demonstrate skills in handling client services. During salary negotiations, prepare to discuss how your contributions and abilities align with the company's goals.

Which companies pay the most for customer success managers?

Top-paying companies for customer success managers often include large tech firms and SaaS companies. These include Microsoft, Meta, and Salesforce. Roles like director of customer success at these companies can even demand higher salaries. Keep a close eye on job postings and salary reports to target the best opportunities.