Results of the 2011 ICMA Compensation Survey for Local Government Chief Appointed Officials show that salaries and benefits have remained relatively stable over the past decade. Increases in average salaries have been moderate and benefits remain relatively stable, although some, such as loans to purchase homes, have decreased.

• Among the population groups, there is a consistent decline in average salary as population size decreases—from a high of $223,831 in local governments with over 1 million population to $66,120 in those under 2,500 population.
• The vast majority (96%) of respondents do not receive additional compensation for attending meetings outside of the workday.
• Seventy-eight percent of respondents report that they receive an annual performance evaluation.
• Sixty-two percent report that their salary is tied to performance.
• Fifty-two percent of respondents report eligibility for a merit increase.
• Only 25% of respondents report that they are eligible for a bonus.
• Two retirement benefits are most prevalent—a defined benefit plan (60% report) and deferred compensation (47% report).
• A majority of respondents receive life insurance (80%), professional association memberships (70%), and car expenses/allowance (60%).

Summary results of the survey are available in the Knowledge Network. The survey response rate is 36 percent. ICMA will conduct the survey annually. For information contact Evelina Moulder, director of survey research, at emoulder@icma.org.