Brokerage Clerks Salary 2025: $65,750 Median, Outlook & How to Start
The median salary for Brokerage Clerks in the U.S. is $65,750, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $32 per hour, with half of all clerks earning between $50,260 and $102,010 (10th to 90th percentile). Mean annual wages hit $72,850.
About 35,940 people work as Brokerage Clerks nationally. But this occupation is shrinking: BLS projects a 9.5% decline from 2024 to 2034, though around 4,100 openings still open up each year due to turnover. If you're considering this career, here's the real picture on pay, paths in, and what the future looks like.
How much Brokerage Clerks earn
Brokerage clerk pay varies widely. The bottom 10% earn under $50,260, while the top 10% surpass $102,010. Your paycheck depends mostly on location, employer size, and experience.
The biggest factor is geography. Washington, D.C. tops the list at $95,450 median, followed by New York ($78,930), Vermont ($78,200), and California ($77,960). Connecticut rounds out the top five at $75,330. On the low end, Montana pays $48,360, Kansas $49,990, and South Dakota $56,080.
Pay by state
Highest-paying: District of Columbia ($95,450), New York ($78,930), Vermont ($78,200), California ($77,960), Connecticut ($75,330). Lowest: Montana ($48,360), Kansas ($49,990), South Dakota ($56,080).
How to become Brokerage Clerk
Most brokerage clerks start with a high school diploma or equivalent, though an associate's or bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or business can help you stand out. On-the-job training is typical, often lasting a few months.
You'll need strong math, computer, and communication skills. Many employers prefer candidates with the Series 7 or Series 63 licenses, but that's not always required at entry level—some firms sponsor training. Experience with trading platforms and back-office software is a plus.
- 1. Finish high school (or get GED).
- 2. Consider a degree in finance/business (optional but helpful).
- 3. Apply for entry-level clerk positions at brokerages, banks, or investment firms.
- 4. Get on-the-job training; pursue securities licenses (Series 7, 63) if employer requires.
Job outlook
Brokerage Clerks are in decline. BLS projects a 9.5% drop between 2024 and 2034, with about 4,100 openings per year—mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Automation is the main culprit: software handles trade confirmations, settlements, and record-keeping that clerks used to do manually.
That said, opportunities still exist, especially in larger financial hubs. Positions that require direct client contact or complex troubleshooting are less likely to be automated. If you're early in your career, consider building skills in client service, compliance, or financial analysis to stay competitive.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Brokerage Clerk do?
Brokerage clerks handle administrative tasks for securities transactions: processing buy/sell orders, confirming trades, maintaining records, and reconciling differences. They work in brokerages, investment banks, and financial firms.
Do Brokerage Clerks need a license?
Not always at entry level, but many employers require a Series 7 (General Securities Representative) or Series 63 license after hiring. Some clerks study for these exams on the job.
Is Brokerage Clerk a good career?
It offers solid pay (median $65,750) and a clear entry path, but the job outlook is shrinking due to automation. It can be a stepping stone to roles like financial analyst or operations manager.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Brokerage Clerks data.