Benchmarking Your Salary Against BLS OEWS Data

Whether you are negotiating a new salary, evaluating a job offer, or benchmarking your team's compensation, BLS OEWS data is one of the most reliable publicly available references. Here is how to use it effectively.

Finding Your Occupation and Area

The first step is identifying your SOC code. The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook provides occupation profiles linked to SOC codes. OEWS data is available at the national level and for states, metropolitan statistical areas, and nonmetropolitan areas. Use the most specific geographic unit available — metro-area wages can differ significantly from state averages.

Understanding What the Data Represents

OEWS wages are the rates at which workers are paid, not total compensation. They exclude: employer contributions to health insurance (often $10,000–$20,000+ per year), retirement contributions, paid leave, bonuses, and equity compensation. For technology occupations where equity is a significant component, OEWS wages may substantially understate total compensation. Adjust upward for total comp comparisons.

Use the 75th percentile as a realistic high-end benchmark for strong performers, and the 25th percentile as a floor for junior positions. Explore wages by occupation at our wages section.