Media & Communications Maryland (MD) Rank #9 of 50

Public Relations Specialist Salary in Maryland

The median public relations specialist salary in Maryland is $74,184 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $67,440.

Median Salary
$74,184
vs National
+$6,744
State Rank
#9 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Public Relations Specialist Salary Overview in Maryland (2026)

Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for public relations specialist compensation. This places Maryland in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for public relations specialists seeking high pay. At $74,184 per year, public relations specialists in Maryland earn $6,744 more than the national median of $67,440.

It's worth noting that Maryland's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $74,184 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $67,440.

The salary spread in Maryland is significant: public relations specialists at the 10th percentile earn $41,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $132,000 — a $90,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Maryland for this role is Silver Spring, where the median reaches $82,277.

Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for public relations specialists across the country.

Public Relations Specialist Salary in Maryland by Experience

In Maryland, an entry-level public relations specialist earns around $46,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $123,200 per year. The cost of living index in Maryland is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,200
+$4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$77,000
+$7,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$123,200
+$11,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Maryland

Percentile MD Salary
10th Percentile $41,800
25th Percentile $55,000
Median (50th) $74,184
75th Percentile $100,100
90th Percentile $132,000

Public Relations Specialist Salary by City in Maryland

The largest employment areas for public relations specialists in Maryland include Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, and Germantown. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Public Relations Specialist in Maryland

Education

Most public relations specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Maryland has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Media RelationsPress ReleasesCrisis CommunicationsSocial MediaEvent PlanningBrand Management

Job Outlook in Maryland

Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Maryland's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Public Relations Specialist Salary in Maryland

How much does a Public Relations Specialist make in Maryland? ▼
The median public relations specialist salary in Maryland is $74,184 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $67,440. Salaries range from $41,800 (10th percentile) to $132,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Public Relations Specialist make per hour in Maryland? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $74,184, a public relations specialist in Maryland earns approximately $36 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Maryland a good state for public relations specialists? ▼
Maryland ranks #9 out of 50 states for public relations specialist pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level public relations specialists earn $46,200, while senior professionals earn $123,200.
How does Maryland compare to other states for public relations specialist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for public relations specialists is Hawaii at $114,648. Maryland's median of $74,184 ranks #9 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($77,556) and Connecticut ($75,533).
What is the entry-level public relations specialist salary in Maryland? ▼
An entry-level public relations specialist in Maryland earns approximately $46,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $77,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $123,200.
What city in Maryland pays public relations specialists the most? ▼
Silver Spring is the highest paying city in Maryland for public relations specialists, with a median salary of $82,277. Other cities include Baltimore and Columbia.