A new look at state employee compensation shows Michigan is paying billions in wages annually — with a relatively small group of top earners taking home salaries well into six figures, and in some cases, more than $500,000.
According to reporting by MLive, the state of Michigan spent more than $4.5 billion on salaries and wages for employees in 2025.
Within that total, the highest-paid employees — including agency leaders, investment officials and specialized professionals — account for a significant share of compensation at the top end.
MLive reports the 100 highest-paid state employees collectively earned more than $30 million last year, underscoring how compensation is concentrated among a relatively small number of positions.
Among those top earners, several individuals exceeded the $500,000 mark, with some nearing or surpassing seven figures depending on role and responsibilities. Many of the highest salaries are tied to positions requiring specialized expertise, particularly in financial management and state investment operations.
The report also notes that Michigan’s top-paid state employee works in the Treasury Department as a chief investment officer — a role responsible for overseeing billions in state assets and pension funds.
More broadly, the data reflects the scale of state government payroll. In total, tens of thousands of employees across departments — from corrections and public health to transportation and administration — make up the bulk of the state workforce, with most earning far less than the top-tier salaries highlighted in the report.
The salary figures are based on public records obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests and other transparency efforts, allowing a detailed look at how taxpayer-funded compensation is distributed across state government.
MLive’s analysis is part of an ongoing effort by news organizations and watchdog groups to track public employee compensation and provide transparency into government spending.
WHERE THE HIGHEST STATE SALARIES ARE CONCENTRATED
While headlines focus on a handful of individuals earning more than $500,000, the highest compensation levels in Michigan state government are largely tied to a small group of specialized leadership and investment roles.
Based on reporting by MLive, here’s where the top salaries are concentrated:
Top-paying roles (by position type):
- Chief Investment Officer (State Treasury)
Oversees billions in state pension and investment funds; consistently the highest-paid position in state government. - Senior Investment Managers / Portfolio Managers
Handle specific segments of the state’s investment portfolio, including equities, private equity and real assets. - Deputy Chief Investment Officers
Senior leadership roles supporting overall investment strategy and fund performance. - Private Equity / Alternative Investment Directors
Specialized roles managing higher-risk, higher-return investment categories. - University Medical Specialists (state-affiliated systems)
In some cases included in state compensation data due to affiliations, with highly specialized clinical expertise. - Department Directors (Cabinet-level leadership)
Lead major state agencies such as Health and Human Services, Corrections, and Transportation. - Legal Leadership (Solicitor General / Senior Counsel roles)
Top attorneys representing the state in major litigation and appellate matters. - Corrections Leadership
Senior administrators overseeing one of the state’s largest departments and workforces. - IT and Technology Executives
Overseeing statewide systems, cybersecurity, and large-scale digital infrastructure. - Public Health Leadership
Senior medical and administrative roles managing statewide health programs and policy.
Big picture:
The vast majority of Michigan’s state employees — including frontline workers in corrections, transportation, public health and human services — earn far less than these top-tier salaries. The highest compensation is concentrated in roles requiring advanced expertise, high-level decision-making, or responsibility for managing large financial assets.
Source: MLive.com analysis of Michigan public employee compensation data.
