HR Manager Jobs in Madison, WI

Madison, Wisconsin$89,250 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: May 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About HR Manager Jobs in Madison

Looking for a HR Manager job in Madison? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a HR Manager in Madison, WI.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Madison has a strong job market for HR Managers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

HR Manager Salary in Madison

Entry Level
$56,355
Median
$89,250
Senior Level
$129,030

HR Manager salaries in Madison are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Madison is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

HR ManagementRecruitmentComplianceEmployee RelationsBenefits

HR Manager Job Market in Madison

Madison, WI is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for HR Manager professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Madison offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Education leads the local economy, there's growing demand for HR Manager roles across various sectors. The market for HR Manager positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring HR Managers in Madison

State of WisconsinCity of MadisonMadison Metro

Major employers hiring HR Managers in Madison include State of Wisconsin, City of Madison, Madison Metro. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for HR Managers in Madison

Living in Madison as a HR Manager means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month (22% below the national average). At median HR Manager salary, housing is quite affordable at 19% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,100/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

102
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.4K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a HR Manager in Madison

Madison Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for HR Managers in Madison: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among HR Manager professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has relatively high state income taxes. A HR Manager earning $89,250 might pay approximately $7,140 in state income tax. However, Wisconsin's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for HR Managers

The job outlook for HR Managers in Madison is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Madison offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include HR Management, Recruitment, Compliance, Employee Relations.

Relocating to Madison

Wisconsin has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average HR Manager salary in Madison, WI?

The average HR Manager salary in Madison, WI is $89,250 per year. Entry-level HR Managers typically start around $56,355, while experienced professionals can earn $129,030 or more. The national average for HR Manager roles is $87,500.

How many HR Manager jobs are available in Madison?

Madison has a growing job market with steady opportunities for HR Manager professionals. Major employers hiring HR Managers include State of Wisconsin, City of Madison, Madison Metro. The Education and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Madison a good city for HR Managers?

Madison is an excellent choice for HR Managers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's education industry creates strong demand for business & operations professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for HR Managers in Madison?

Top skills for HR Managers in Madison include HR Management, Recruitment, Compliance, Employee Relations, Benefits. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Relevant certifications like SHRM-CP or PHR can strengthen your candidacy.

What is the cost of living for HR Managers in Madison?

Madison's cost of living is near the national average (102% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month. Purchasing power in Madison is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for HR Managers in Madison?

Madison Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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