Lobbyists in the United States make on average between about $50,000 to over $100,000 annually, with variations by experience, specialization, and location. The average salary for a lobbyist in 2025 ranges roughly from $50,000 to $88,000 per year, with some high earners making above $150,000, and a median salary close to $100,000 in some reports. Entry-level lobbyists start around $47,000 to $60,000 annually, while senior-level lobbyists with decades of experience can earn upwards of $126,000 to $182,000 or more. Specialty lobbyists, such as those in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or political sectors, tend to earn higher salaries within this range. Federal lobbyists average around $91,000 a year, with some variation. Salaries also vary by region, with cities like San Jose, CA, offering significantly higher compensation for lobbyists.