Business administration salaries and cost of living in Ohio
In the heartland of the Midwest, Ohio beckons business administration professionals with a myriad of opportunities in this expansive field. From orchestrating supply chains and managing operations to fostering entrepreneurship and leading organizations, the Buckeye State offers a diverse landscape for business administration careers.
Here we delve into the specifics of business salaries in Ohio, spotlighting key roles such as supply chain management, operations management, general management, entrepreneurship and leadership positions. Additionally, we will examine the educational prerequisites, delve into the cost of living in Ohio, explore relevant professional associations, and discuss fair pay laws.
There are roughly 143,080 people employed as general and operations managers in Ohio, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median wage per hour in Ohio is $46 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 5.8%.
Ohio is undergoing a resurgence as people from other states relocate to enjoy what JobsOhio.com says is "a mix of affordability, quality of life, diverse industry, diverse communities, natural beauty and a dynamic hub for innovation, culture, sports, education and economic growth." Here are some top employers for business administration professionals in the state:
Procter & Gamble (Manufacturing/Consumer Goods):
Cincinnati, OH. A major employer in Ohio, Procter & Gamble provides opportunities for operations managers and supply chain professionals, contributing significantly to the state's economic landscape.
Cleveland Clinic (Healthcare):
Cleveland, OH. As a prominent healthcare institution, the Cleveland Clinic offers leadership opportunities in healthcare administration and management.
Cardinal Health (Healthcare/Pharmaceuticals):
Dublin, OH. Supply chain managers can explore opportunities at Cardinal Health, a Fortune 500 healthcare services company headquartered in Ohio.
The Ohio State University (Education):
Columbus, OH. For entrepreneurial ventures in education and research, The Ohio State University serves as a hub for innovation and business development. The third largest university in the nation has placement for leaders and administrators in its operations sector.
>
The view.js is not setup right.
Business administration salary in Ohio: 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.
Ohio's business administration landscape is marked by competitive salaries influenced by industry dynamics, experience and the specific demands of each role. Drawing on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Salaries for different business administrator roles in Ohio
Entrepreneurs:
Ohio's entrepreneurial spirit thrives, with successful business owners realizing returns in the six-figure range or beyond. The state's diverse economy supports innovation and business growth.
Leadership roles:
High-ranking executives, such as CEOs and CFOs, can anticipate salaries exceeding $175,000, particularly in industries like manufacturing, finance and healthcare.
Operations and general managers:
In Ohio, general and operations managers command salaries ranging from $105,000 to $135,000 annually, with opportunities prevalent in sectors like manufacturing, healthcare and technology.
Supply chain managers:
Professionals steering the logistics and supply chain domain in Ohio enjoy salaries between $90,000 and $115,000 per year says the BLS. The state's robust manufacturing sector provides ample opportunities for supply chain professionals.
Median business administration salary in Ohio
The median annual salary for general and operations managers in Ohio is $94,990 cites the BLS. That wage is less than the national median for the country. Despite a healthy manufacturing industry and being home to the third largest university in the country, Ohio does not rank in the top five paying states in the U.S. for general and operations managers, though northeastern Ohio ranks third for nonmetropolitan areas with the highest employment in general and operations managers according to the BLS.
General and Operations Managers
10%$44,430
25%$61,220
50%$94,990Median
75%$147,340
90%$211,480
Median Hourly Wage$46
Job growth5.8%
Total Employment146,860
Metro area
Median Salary
Bottom 10%
Top 10%
Columbus, OH
$99,780
$48,090
$217,140
Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN
$97,760
$45,650
$215,390
Cleveland, OH
$97,220
$45,760
$214,190
Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH
$97,160
$46,590
$205,930
Akron, OH
$96,600
$42,940
$214,570
Toledo, OH
$90,380
$41,590
$208,200
Springfield, OH
$80,930
$39,580
$193,140
Lima, OH
$79,430
$39,080
$182,930
Canton-Massillon, OH
$79,190
$39,690
$190,790
Sandusky, OH
$76,820
$37,650
$184,000
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2033. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
>
The view.js is not setup right.
Salary range for a business administration career in Ohio
The salary range for general and operations professionals in Ohio typically spans from $44,430 to well over $211,480 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 Ohio
Your salary may depend upon where you live within Ohio. For example, Cincinnati or Cleveland may pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, like Cincinnati, which is a top manufacturing city, pay may be more competitive. Here are top metro areas for general and operations managers per the BLS. As you can see, no cities in Ohio make the list.
Metro Area
Median Annual Salary
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA
$162,480
Trenton-Princeton, NJ
$160,460
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA
$152,090
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
$151,420
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ
$149,260
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
$141,280
Sioux Falls, SD-MN
$138,940
Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT
$135,210
Huntsville, AL
$133,750
Bridgeport-Stamford-Danbury, CT
$132,880
Factors affecting business administrator salary in Ohio
Several factors influence what your business administration salary may be in Ohio. These primary factors may include:
Experience level:
Experience is a key determinant of salary. Operations and general managers with a proven track record may receive higher compensation, reflecting their expertise in navigating challenges.
Geographical location:
The specific region within Ohio can influence salaries. Urban centers like Columbus and Cleveland may offer higher salaries due to the concentration of major industries.
Industry specialization:
Ohio's diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare and technology, impact salaries. Professionals in sectors with higher demands or complexities often command higher compensation.
Company size:
The size of the employing company is a crucial factor. Larger corporations, particularly in manufacturing and healthcare, may offer higher salaries for management and leadership roles.
Economic conditions:
Ohio's economic conditions and industry trends impact salaries. During periods of economic growth or high demand for skilled professionals, salaries tend to rise.
How can I know if my business administrator salary is fair in Ohio?
Ohio follows federal laws on fair pay, and the Equal Pay Act mandates equal pay for equal work regardless of gender. It's essential to be aware of your rights and, if necessary, consult the Ohio Civil Rights Commission for guidance.
Here are some tips to help guide you if you feel you are being paid unfairly:
First, research industry standards: Utilize salary surveys, such as those on Indeed, the BLS and Payscale to understand average compensation for your role in your geographic area. In short, what are others in your job making in your area?
Discuss your concerns: Connect with other professionals in your industry to understand what they are earning.
Understand your 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.
Consult HR: If you are unclear or have questions about your company specifically, ask your supervisor or HR manager.
>
The view.js is not setup right.
Education for business administration roles in Ohio
Understanding the business administration career path in Ohio often involves knowing what specific educational credentials you'll need for different business admin careers. Based on industry norms and BLS recommendations, here is the common education path:
Degrees in logistics, supply chain management or a related field are commonly sought, with specialized certifications adding value.
Leadership roles:
Executives in leadership positions often hold advanced degrees such as an MBA, coupled with extensive industry experience.
Entrepreneurs:
While not strictly tied to formal education, entrepreneurs can benefit from foundational knowledge gained through business degrees and practical experiences.
Many MBA and master's degree programs are available online as well as in a classroom based format so you can continue your studies while you work.
Advancing to management in Ohio:
For aspiring general or operations managers in Ohio:
Acquire a relevant bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience in your industry.
Network with professionals in your industry and participate in Ohio-based business events and conferences.
Invest in professional development opportunities and certifications relevant to your field.
Seek mentorship from experienced managers who can provide guidance on career progression.
Stay informed about industry trends, technologies, and management best practices.
Apply for leadership roles within your organization or seek opportunities in companies that align with your career goals.
Cost of living considerations for Ohio
Understanding the cost of living in Ohio is crucial for assessing the overall compensation package. Ohio offers a cost of living index slightly below the national average, making it an attractive state for professionals. Cities like Cincinnati and Dayton provide diverse housing options, contributing to the state's appeal.
More specifically, Ohio's cost of living is, on average 11% lower than the national average—with housing around 27% lower than the national average, says RentCafe.
RentCafe says all major cities in Ohio have a lower cost of living than the national average. Take a look at places the cost of living is lowest:
City in Ohio
Cost of living percentage
Akron
14% lower
Columbus
10% lower
Cleveland
6% lower
Cincinnati
3% lower
Dayton
6% lower
Ohio professional business associations
Professional associations have value for business administration professionals, especially those just beginning their careers, as they provide valuable networking opportunities and continuing education resources. You may want to consider attending events or becoming a member to continue your professional and educational growth and to connect with like-minded individuals in Ohio.
ISM Northwest Ohio: A personal way to get involved and to grow your network and knowledge of companies and corporations in Northwest Ohio.
Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO)–Cincinnati Chapter: A global, peer-to-peer network of more than 18,000+ influential business owners.
Ohio Manufacturers' Association (OMA): Committed to helping and growing Ohio manufacturing.
By understanding Ohio's business landscape, staying informed about fair pay laws and actively pursuing educational and professional development, business administration professionals can carve a successful career path in the Buckeye State.
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.
