Marketing Manager vs Product Manager: Salary Comparison
Marketing Managers earn $20K more per year than Product Managers on average.
Data from BLS · Last updated April 2025
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Marketing Manager | Product Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,040 | $120,000 |
| Entry Level | $85,000 | $82,000 |
| Senior Level | $200,000 | $175,000 |
| Hourly Rate | $67/hr | $58/hr |
| Education | Bachelor's in Marketing or Business | Bachelor's Degree + MBA preferred |
| Category | Business | Technology |
Which Pays More?
On average, Marketing Managers earn $20K more per year than Product Managers, with a median salary of $140,040 versus $120,000. However, compensation varies significantly by experience, location, and specialization. A senior Product Manager in a high-paying state like California or New York can earn $227,500 or more — exceeding the median for a junior Marketing Manager. Education and credentials also play a role: Marketing Managers typically require Bachelor's in Marketing or Business, while Product Managers need Bachelor's Degree + MBA preferred. Both careers offer strong long-term growth, but if maximizing starting salary is the priority, Marketing Manager has the edge.
Top 5 Paying States
| State | Marketing Manager | Product Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $199,000 | $170,000 |
| California | $193,000 | $166,000 |
| New York | $179,000 | $154,000 |
| Alaska | $175,000 | $150,000 |
| Massachusetts | $175,000 | $150,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Marketing Manager or Product Manager pay more?
Marketing Manager pays more on average at $140,040/year, compared to $120,000/year for Product Manager — a difference of $20,040/year.
What is the salary difference between Marketing Manager and Product Manager?
The median salary gap is $20,040/year ($20K), with Marketing Manager earning more. This gap can widen or narrow depending on location, employer size, and years of experience.
Which career grows faster in pay, Marketing Manager or Product Manager?
Marketing Manager grows from $85,000 to $200,000 (a $115,000 increase). Product Manager grows from $82,000 to $175,000 (a $93,000 increase). Marketing Manager shows larger absolute pay growth over a career.
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