---
title: What is the cost of a bad hire?
description: "The cost of a bad hire can be significant. Conservative estimates are a low as 30% of base salary where many will cite that a bad hire can cost as much as five times that person's annual salary.  A loss…"
url: "https://cooperpg.com/faq/what-is-the-cost-of-a-bad-hire/"
updated: "2026-08-14"
category: "Talent Search & Recruiting FAQs"
---

# What is the cost of a bad hire?

The cost of a bad hire can be significant. Conservative estimates are a low as 30% of base salary where many will cite that a bad hire can cost as much as five times that person's annual salary.  A loss of a key play can also negatively impact productivity, team morale, customer experience, opportunity costs and more.