Financial Analyst Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $133,026 | |
| Massachusetts | $121,570 | |
| California | $118,872 | |
| Washington | $118,247 | |
| Connecticut | $115,468 | |
| Colorado | $110,826 | |
| Maryland | $110,571 | |
| New York | $110,129 | |
| National Median | $99,890 |
How to Become a Financial Analyst
Financial analysts guide businesses and individuals making investment decisions by evaluating financial data and trends.
Meet the education requirement
Most financial analysts enter the field with bachelor's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $65,927 and rises toward $145,839 with experience.
Financial Analyst salary: common questions
How much does a Financial Analyst make an hour?
The median hourly wage for financial analysts is $48.02, which works out to about $99,890 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays financial analysts the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for financial analysts at $133,026 per year — 33% above the national median of $99,890.
What is the salary range for financial analysts?
Most financial analysts earn between $65,927 and $145,839 per year. The middle 50% earn $80,911 to $123,864, with a median of $99,890.
Is becoming a Financial Analyst a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 8% (faster than average), and the role typically requires bachelor's degree. With a median wage of $99,890 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.