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Business Administration Education and Career Guide
Business administration salary in Florida

When it comes to business administration, Florida is a state that stands out not only for its vibrant economy but also for the diverse career opportunities it offers. In this article, we will delve into the salaries and prospects of key roles in business administration in Florida, including entrepreneur and leadership positions, supply chain managers and operations managers.
We will also explore the overall economic landscape, the cost of living, prominent employers, educational opportunities and professional associations for networking in the Sunshine State.
Quick snapshot of BA pay in FL
There are roughly 203,090 people employed as general and operations managers in Florida, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median wage per hour is $48 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 5.8%.
Some of the biggest employers in the state are located in Jacksonville and Boca Raton, and encompass the tourism, transportation, banking and finance and technology industries:
- Walt Disney World Resort:
- Orlando, FL. The number one ranked hospitality and tourism company employs hundreds of manager and leadership positions.
- IBM:
- Boca Raton, FL. With other offices in Florida locations, IBM's technology is also used to monitor students' performance at state universities such as University of Florida.
- Bank of America:
- Jacksonville, FL. The number two largest bank system in America provides extensive banking services to individuals and businesses.
- Mayo Clinic:
- Jacksonville, FL. The number one hospital in Florida according to U.S. News & World Report and a large scale employer of healthcare administrators and managers.
- Office Depot HQ:
- Boca Raton, FL. Though the campus was recently acquired by BH Group and PEBB Enterprises, Office Depot still leases back the property and maintains a hefty presence in the state.
- JP Morgan Chase:
- Tampa, FL. The largest banking system in America employs thousands of business leaders, managers and financial officers.
Business administration salary Florida statistics
While the median salary for business administration professionals—a category that includes careers in management, sales, marketing and a number of other business fields—is just over $76,850 a year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live and the cost of living, how much experience you have, what certifications you have earned and your level of education.
Median business administration salary in Florida
The median annual salary for general and operations managers in Florida is $100,750. However, it's important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state.
Salary range for a business administration career in Florida
The salary range for general and operations professionals in Florida typically spans from $45,610 to per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
Pay by metro area within the state of Florida
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say you work in business and you live in a city that has several high profile corporate businesses or healthcare industries, pay may be more competitive. While the BLS reports that Florida is the fifth highest employer of general and operations managers in the country, it doesn't rank in the top 10 highest paying cities in the U.S.
Factors affecting your business administration salary in Florida
Several factors can influence the salary potential in the business administration field in Florida. These factors may include:
- Experience:
- The level of experience you bring to a role is a significant determinant of salary. Generally, individuals with more years of relevant experience command higher salaries.
- Education and professional certifications:
- Higher levels of education, such as a master's degree or an MBA, often correlate with higher earning potential. Specialized certifications and training can also enhance your value in the job market.
- Industry and company size:
- Salaries can vary widely based on the industry you work in. For example, business administrators in the healthcare or technology sectors might earn different salaries than those in hospitality or retail. The size of the company can also impact salary levels. Larger corporations often offer higher salaries and more extensive benefit packages compared to smaller businesses.
- Geographic location and cost of living:
- The cost of living in different regions of Florida varies, and this can influence salary levels. Urban areas with a higher cost of living may offer higher salaries to compensate for expenses.
- Job title and responsibilities:
- Different roles within business administration have varying salary ranges. Executive-level positions such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Chief Financial Officer (CFO) typically command higher salaries compared to mid-level management roles.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly as a business administrator in Florida?
Determining whether you are paid fairly in Florida involves considering various factors such as your job role, industry, level of experience, education and geographic location within the state. Here are some steps you can take to assess whether your compensation aligns with industry standards:
- Research industry salaries: Utilize online salary research tools like Glassdoor, Payscale or the BLS to get an idea of the average salaries for your specific job title and industry in Florida.
- Network and discuss salaries: Connect with professionals in your industry through networking events, online forums or professional associations. Engage in conversations about compensation to understand what others with similar roles and experience are earning.
- Consult with colleagues: Discuss salary ranges with colleagues or peers in your company or industry. While it's essential to maintain professionalism, sharing information can help you gauge whether your compensation is in line with others in similar positions.
- Evaluate your experience and skills: Assess your own qualifications, skills and experience. If you have unique skills or specialized knowledge, it may justify a higher salary. Consider how your qualifications compare to industry standards for your role.
- Consider where you live: Salaries can vary within Florida based on the cost of living in different regions. If you are in a metropolitan area, the cost of living may be higher, which could impact salary expectations.
- Review company policies: Familiarize yourself with your company's policies on compensation and benefits. Understand how performance reviews and salary adjustments are handled within the organization.
- Seek feedback: Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or HR department to discuss your performance and compensation. Seek feedback on your contributions and inquire about the possibility of a salary review.
- Stay informed about market trends: Keep yourself updated on industry and market trends. Changes in the demand for specific skills or fluctuations in the job market can impact salary expectations.
- Consider the total package: Look beyond your base salary and consider the entire compensation package, including benefits, bonuses and perks. Sometimes, a comprehensive benefits package can compensate for a slightly lower salary.
- Learn to negotiate effectively: If you believe you are not being compensated fairly, be prepared to negotiate. Highlight your achievements, skills and market value during salary discussions or performance reviews.
Education and training for FL
The educational requirements for business administration professionals in Florida can vary based on the specific role and employer. However, a typical educational pathway may include:
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, marketing or a related field.
- Master's degree or MBA will likely be required for leadership, management, HR, international business and entrepreneurial roles.
- State-specific certification and licensing requirements may be needed, but degrees are generally more considered than licensing for BA careers.
Florida's educational institutions contribute significantly to the state's skilled workforce. Universities such as the University of Florida, Florida State University and the University of Miami offer comprehensive business administration programs. These institutions provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the competitive business landscape.
Cost of living considerations for FL
When evaluating business admin salaries in different areas of Florida, it's crucial to consider the cost of living. The cost of housing, transportation, health care and other expenses can vary across cities or regions within the state. Assessing the cost of living helps you gauge how salaries align with local expenses and make more informed decisions about job opportunities or potential relocation.
Florida boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other states—though it is still 1% higher than the national average—with affordable housing, no state income tax and a generally favorable economic environment.
RentCafe says the highest cost of living cities in Florida are: Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Cape Coral, Sarasota and Orlando.
The lowest cost of living cities include: Pensacola, Tallahassee and Daytona beach.
Florida professional associations and networking
These associations provide valuable networking opportunities, professional development resources and a platform for industry professionals to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in their respective fields. It's always a good idea to explore their websites, attend events and consider joining to enhance your professional growth and connect with like-minded individuals in Florida.
Entrepreneurs:
Leadership:
Healthcare Managers:
Supply Chain Managers:
- Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)—Central Florida
- Institute for Supply Management (ISM) - Florida
This business administration salary guide for Florida aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding different professions under the broad business administration umbrella. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Find business administration salaries for other states
Learn what you may be able to earn in your state, how the cost of living and other factors could impact your pay, why education matters—especially in business administration leadership roles—and much more.
