HR Manager Salary in India 2026
The average HR Manager salary in India is ₹9,00,000 per annum in 2026, ranging from ₹3,50,000 to ₹25,00,000 based on experience, company, skills, and location. TCS pays the highest at ₹5,00,000 - ₹18,00,000. Mumbai offers the best average at ₹10,50,000/year.
Key Takeaways — HR Manager Salary 2026
- Average salary: ₹9,00,000/year in India
- Salary range: ₹3,50,000 (entry) to ₹25,00,000 (senior)
- Highest paying: TCS at ₹5,00,000 - ₹18,00,000
- Best city: Mumbai at ₹10,50,000/year average
- Top skills: Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Labour Law, HRIS (SAP/Workday) boost salary by 20-40%
HR Manager Salary by Experience Level
Experience is the single biggest factor affecting HR Manager salary in India. Here's how salary scales from fresher to senior level, based on market data from 2026.
Pro tip: HR Manager professionals who switch companies every 2-3 years see 30-50% salary jumps compared to 8-15% annual increments at the same company.
HR Manager Salary at Top Companies
Company choice significantly impacts salary. Product companies and MNCs typically pay 2-3x more than service companies for the same role and experience level.
TCS
Highest₹5,00,000 - ₹18,00,000
Infosys
₹4,50,000 - ₹16,00,000
Deloitte
₹6,00,000 - ₹22,00,000
Accenture
₹5,00,000 - ₹20,00,000
Amazon
₹8,00,000 - ₹25,00,000
HDFC Bank
₹5,00,000 - ₹18,00,000
Reliance
₹6,00,000 - ₹22,00,000
HR Manager Salary by City
Location plays a key role in determining salary. Metro cities with higher cost of living and more tech companies offer 15-30% higher packages.
Skills That Boost HR Manager Salary
Professionals with these in-demand skills earn 20-40% more than their peers. Include these in your resume to target higher-paying roles.
Resume tip: Include these skills in your resume's skills section AND naturally within your experience bullet points. ATS systems scan for keyword frequency and context.
How to Negotiate a Higher HR Manager Salary
Most HR Manager professionals leave 10-30% salary on the table by not negotiating. Here are proven strategies to maximize your offer.
Research before the interview
Use this salary data to know the market rate. If offered below ₹9,00,000, you have data to counter.
Never share your current salary first
When asked, redirect: 'I'm looking for a role in the range of X-Y based on my skills and market rates.' Let them make the first offer.
Negotiate the total package, not just base
Include joining bonus, annual bonus, stock options (ESOPs), relocation allowance, and notice period buyout in your negotiation.
Get competing offers
Having 2-3 offers gives you the strongest negotiating position. Companies will match or beat competing packages.
Time your job switch strategically
Switch during appraisal season (March-April) or after a strong performance review. Use your increment as leverage for a higher base at the new company.
Build high-demand skills
Skills like Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Labour Law command premium salaries. Invest 6-12 months in upskilling before switching.
Common mistake: Accepting the first offer without negotiating. 87% of employers expect candidates to negotiate. You won't lose an offer by asking professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average HR manager salary in India?
The average HR manager salary in India is ₹9,00,000 per annum. HR directors and CHROs at large companies earn ₹20-60 LPA.
Which HR specialization pays the most?
Compensation & Benefits, HR Analytics, and Talent Acquisition lead in pay. HR professionals with HRIS expertise (SAP SuccessFactors, Workday) also command premium salaries.
What qualifications are needed for HR manager roles?
An MBA in HR from a reputed institute is preferred. SHRM or HRCI certifications add value. Many companies also value a background in psychology or labour law.
Build Your HR Manager Resume — Target Higher Salary
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