What Do Finance Jobs Pay? A Complete Salary Guide

Introduction

If you are considering a career in finance, one of the first questions you are likely to ask is: what do finance jobs pay? Finance is often associated with high salaries, bonuses, and long-term career growth, but actual pay varies widely depending on job role, experience level, education, location, and industry.

In this in-depth guide, we will break down finance job salaries across entry-level, mid-level, and senior positions. You will learn how much professionals earn in banking, accounting, investment management, corporate finance, fintech, and more.

By the end, you will have a realistic understanding of finance salaries and how to maximize your earning potential in this competitive field.

Understanding the Finance Industry

The finance industry is broad and includes many specialized career paths. Some roles focus on managing money, others on analyzing risk, planning investments, or supporting business decisions. Because of this diversity, pay levels differ significantly.

Key Areas Within Finance

• Banking (retail, commercial, investment)
• Accounting and auditing
• Corporate finance
• Financial planning and wealth management
• Investment management
• Insurance and risk management
• Fintech and financial technology
• Government and public finance

Each of these areas has its own salary structure and growth potential.

Entry-Level Finance Jobs and Salaries

Entry-level finance roles are typically for recent graduates or professionals with less than three years of experience. These positions focus on learning fundamentals, data analysis, reporting, and supporting senior staff.

Common Entry-Level Finance Roles

Financial Analyst (Junior)

A junior financial analyst supports budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling.

• Average salary: $55,000–$75,000 per year
• Typical requirements: Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or economics

Accountant

Accountants manage financial records, prepare tax documents, and ensure compliance.

• Average salary: $50,000–$65,000 per year
• Certifications like CPA can significantly increase pay

Banking Analyst

Often found in investment banks or commercial banks, analysts assist with research and deal preparation.

• Average salary: $70,000–$90,000 per year (excluding bonuses)

Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist

This role focuses on managing invoices, payments, and cash flow.

• Average salary: $40,000–$55,000 per year

Factors Affecting Entry-Level Pay

• University reputation
• Internship experience
• Technical skills (Excel, SQL, Python)
• Location and cost of living

Mid-Level Finance Jobs and Salaries

Mid-level finance professionals usually have 4–9 years of experience. At this stage, responsibilities increase, and salaries rise accordingly.

Popular Mid-Level Finance Roles

Financial Analyst (Senior)

Senior analysts lead projects, create advanced financial models, and advise management.

• Average salary: $80,000–$110,000 per year

Finance Manager

Finance managers oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.

• Average salary: $95,000–$130,000 per year

Investment Analyst

Investment analysts evaluate stocks, bonds, and other assets.

• Average salary: $90,000–$120,000 per year

Risk Manager

Risk managers assess financial risks and develop mitigation strategies.

• Average salary: $100,000–$135,000 per year

Senior-Level Finance Jobs and Salaries

Senior finance roles come with leadership responsibilities and high compensation packages.

Executive and Leadership Roles

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

The CFO oversees a company’s financial strategy, risk management, and compliance.

• Average salary: $150,000–$300,000+ per year

Finance Director

Finance directors manage financial planning and guide long-term strategy.

• Average salary: $140,000–$220,000 per year

Investment Banking Vice President / Director

These professionals manage client relationships and major deals.

• Base salary: $150,000–$250,000
• Bonuses can double total compensation

Finance Salaries by Industry

Investment Banking

Investment banking is known for high pay and demanding work hours.

• Analysts: $70,000–$100,000
• Associates: $120,000–$180,000
• Directors/MDs: $250,000+, including bonuses

Source: https://www.investopedia.com

Corporate Finance

Corporate finance roles are generally more stable with balanced work-life conditions.

• Analysts: $60,000–$80,000
• Managers: $100,000–$130,000
• Directors: $150,000+

Accounting and Auditing

• Entry-level accountants: $50,000–$65,000
• CPA-qualified professionals: $80,000–$120,000

Source: https://www.aicpa.org

Financial Planning and Wealth Management

• Financial advisor: $60,000–$90,000
• Senior wealth manager: $120,000–$200,000

source: https://www.cfainstitute.org

Finance Salaries by Location

Geography plays a major role in finance compensation.

United States

• New York, San Francisco: Highest salaries
• Midwest and Southern states: Moderate pay but lower living costs

United Kingdom

• London finance jobs pay 20–40% more than other regions

Asia and Middle East

• Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai offer competitive tax advantages

Source: https://www.glassdoor.com

How Education and Certifications Affect Pay

Education and professional credentials can significantly increase finance salaries.

High-Value Certifications

• CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
• FRM (Financial Risk Manager)
• MBA (Master of Business Administration)

Professionals with these certifications often earn 20–50% more than non-certified peers.

Bonuses, Incentives, and Other Benefits

Finance jobs often include additional compensation beyond base salary.

Common Benefits

• Annual performance bonuses
• Stock options or equity
• Profit sharing
• Health insurance and retirement plans

In investment banking and asset management, bonuses can exceed base salary.

Future Salary Trends in Finance

The finance industry is evolving due to technology and automation. More read...