What Do Finance Jobs Pay: A Salary Guide by Role & Experience

If you are considering a career in finance, you are likely asking one practical question: What do finance jobs pay? This is an important question because understanding potential earnings helps you plan your career path, education, and long-term financial goals. Finance is often seen as a high-paying field, but salaries vary widely by role, experience, location, and qualifications.

In this guide, we will break down what finance jobs pay at different career stages using a mix of verified data from sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and industry surveys. Where official government data is not available, we provide reasonable, illustrative ranges based on recent market research.

Entry-Level Finance Jobs – What You Can Expect

Most finance professionals start in entry-level positions after earning a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. At this stage, the focus is on learning systems, analyzing reports, and supporting senior staff.

According to BLS data from May 2022, the median annual wage for financial and investment analysts was approximately $96,220. It is important to note that this figure represents all experience levels and includes mid-career professionals. Entry-level financial analysts typically start lower, with salaries ranging from $65,000 to $75,000, based on private compensation surveys for large U.S. cities.

For accountants and auditors, the BLS reports a median wage of roughly $78,000. Entry-level accountants usually earn between $55,000 and $65,000, with pay increasing as they gain experience and certifications, such as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant).

Personal financial advisors are another entry path. The BLS reports a median wage of about $95,000, but new advisors may earn less in base salary initially, supplementing their income with commissions as they build a client base.

Overall, entry-level professionals in the United States can expect to earn between $55,000 and $75,000 per year, depending on the role, employer, and location.

Mid-Level Finance Careers – Growth with Experience

After three to seven years of experience, finance professionals usually move into mid-level positions. These roles involve more responsibility, including managing projects, analyzing complex financial data, or leading small teams.

Senior financial analysts often earn between $90,000 and $115,000 annually, reflecting experience and increased responsibility. Financial managers see even higher salaries. While the BLS May 2023 reports a median annual wage of $156,100, many industry sources place mid-career financial manager salaries around $110,000 to $150,000 for large or mid-size companies.

Other mid-level roles, such as portfolio managers or experienced financial advisors, can also cross the six-figure threshold, particularly when performance bonuses or commissions are included.

The growth in pay at this stage is directly tied to increased responsibility, demonstrated skills, and industry-specific knowledge. Mid-career finance professionals are often trusted to make critical financial decisions that affect company performance.

Senior and Executive Roles – Top Earning Potential

Senior-level positions offer the highest salaries in finance, though they require years of experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills.

Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in large companies typically have base salaries ranging from $300,000 to $500,000 or more, based on industry surveys and public company disclosures. Total compensation can be substantially higher due to bonuses, stock options, and long-term incentives.

Senior financial managers and directors often earn between $150,000 and $200,000+, depending on company size and industry. Investment bankers entering mid-size or large firms may start with base salaries near $100,000, with the potential for substantial bonuses that can sometimes double total compensation.

These high-paying roles come with significant responsibilities and often long work hours. However, they illustrate why finance is widely recognized as a field with strong earning potential for professionals who advance in their careers.

Salary Progression by Experience

Experience is one of the strongest drivers of pay in finance. The table below illustrates a typical salary progression for financial analysts. These ranges are based on private industry data and surveys and should be considered illustrative rather than BLS-reported figures.

This table shows how pay generally increases with experience, responsibility, and demonstrated skill. Professionals who remain in the field and continue to build expertise typically see steady income growth over time.

Factors That Influence Finance Salaries

While experience is a major factor, other variables significantly affect what do finance jobs pay:

• Location: Salaries tend to be higher in global financial centers such as New York, London, Singapore, and Hong Kong, reflecting higher demand and living costs.
  
• Industry: Corporate finance, technology, investment banking, and private equity generally offer higher pay than nonprofit or public-sector roles.
  
• Education and Credentials: Advanced degrees (e.g., MBA) and professional certifications (CPA, CFA) can increase starting salaries and promotion potential.
  
• Total Compensation: Base salary is only part of the picture. Bonuses, commissions, profit-sharing, and stock options can greatly increase total pay.

For example, a financial advisor with a base salary of $80,000 might earn an additional $20,000–$40,000 through commissions. Senior investment bankers and executives can receive performance bonuses equal to or exceeding their base salaries.

International Perspective on What Do Finance Jobs Pay

While most of the data cited is U.S.-based, the general trends apply internationally. Entry-level finance roles tend to start modestly, mid-level professionals earn six figures in strong markets, and senior executives command very high compensation.

In London, financial analysts and advisors often earn slightly higher pay than in smaller UK cities. Singapore and Hong Kong are competitive in Asia due to their large financial markets. Even in developing economies, finance careers can provide strong growth relative to local standards, though absolute dollar amounts may be lower.

Final Thoughts

So, what do finance jobs pay? The answer depends on your role, experience, location, and credentials. Entry-level professionals in the United States can expect $55,000 to $75,000 per year, mid-level roles often range from $90,000 to $150,000, and senior executives or specialized professionals can earn $200,000 to $500,000+, particularly when bonuses and stock options are included.

Finance continues to be a field with strong earning potential and clear pathways for growth. Understanding both BLS-reported medians and illustrative industry ranges can help you set realistic expectations, plan your career path, and make informed decisions about education and certifications.

For anyone considering finance, these insights provide a roadmap for understanding pay potential at each stage of a career, from entry-level positions to leadership roles.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. How do bonuses and incentives affect total compensation in finance?

Ans. Bonuses, commissions, profit-sharing, and stock options can significantly increase total earnings. In some roles, they may double their base salary, especially in investment banking, private equity, and senior positions.

2. Do finance careers offer good job security?

Ans. Job stability varies by role. Accounting, auditing, and corporate finance positions are generally steady, while market-dependent roles like trading may fluctuate with economic cycles.

3. What education or certificates help increase pay in finance?

Ans. Certifications like CPA, CFA, or an MBA can boost salary and career growth. Employers often reward these credentials with higher starting pay and faster promotions.

4. How does industry specialization impact pay in finance?

Ans. High-paying sectors include investment banking, private equity, and corporate development. Risk management, compliance, and audit offer lower but stable pay with steady growth.

5. How do the cost of living and location affect real earnings?

Ans. Higher salaries in cities like New York, London, or Singapore often offset higher living costs. Adjusted earnings (salary minus living expenses) give a clearer picture of real income.