SALARY GUIDE

Earn a Meaningful Living as a Priest

Explore compensation trends, advancement opportunities, and factors that shape priestly salaries across the globe.

Salary Overview

Compare salaries across experience levels and countries

Entry Level
$45,000
0‑2 years experience
Mid‑Career
$55,000
5‑10 years experience
Senior
$70,000
15+ years experience
Top 10%
$95,000
High performers
Average Salary by Country
United States$55,000
CanadaC$60,000
United Kingdom£45,000
AustraliaA$70,000
Germany€45,000
India₹300,000

40‑Year Career Salary Projection

See how your earning potential grows throughout your career

0y10y20y30y40y$40k$60kYears of Experience

Top Paying Industries

Compare average salaries across sectors

Salary by Industry
Parish Ministry$55,000
Catholic Education$58,000
Hospital Chaplaincy$62,000
Military Chaplaincy$68,000
Nonprofit/Charitable Organizations$60,000

Salary by Specialization

Explore earning potential in different areas

Parish Priest
$55,000
Average annual salary
Campus Chaplain
$58,000
Average annual salary
Hospital Chaplain
$62,000
Average annual salary
Military Chaplain
$68,000
Average annual salary
Missionary Priest
$50,000
Average annual salary
Key Factors Affecting Salary
  • Denominational affiliation
  • Geographic location (urban vs. rural)
  • Size of congregation or institution
  • Years of ordained service
  • Advanced theological education

Certification Impact

Boost your earning potential with professional certifications

Master of Divinity (MDiv)
5% increase
Salary increase potential
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
10% increase
Salary increase potential
Specialized Chaplaincy Training
7% increase
Salary increase potential

Global Market Insights

Understand the worldwide salary landscape

Highest Paying
Switzerland
Fastest Growing
India
Most Stable
United States
Job Market Outlook

The demand for clergy remains steady, with modest growth driven by aging congregations and expanding chaplaincy roles in healthcare, education, and the military. While overall numbers of ordained priests may decline in some regions, specialized ministries and multicultural communities create new opportunities for well‑trained clergy.

Ready to Build Your Priest Resume?

Start with our AI‑powered resume builder and land your dream role faster.

Get Started

More Salary Guides

Check out Resumly's Free AI Tools