Financial Analysts and Advisors earn $102,090 median salary: BLS 2024
The median salary for Financial Analysts and Advisors hit $102,090 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $49 an hour, with the typical range spanning from $59,470 at the 10th percentile to $212,650 at the 90th. The occupation employs 798,050 people across the U.S., making it a sizable field with serious earning potential at the top.
How much Financial Analysts and Advisors earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $127,690 for the combined occupation of financial analysts and personal financial advisors. That average is pulled up by the top earners: the highest-paid 10% clear $212,650. Even at the entry level, the bottom 10% earn $59,470.
Pay varies significantly by experience, employer size, and geography. Financial analysts in securities and commodities exchanges average over $150,000, while those in local government average around $85,000. Advisors' earnings also depend heavily on commissions and assets under management.
- Median salary: $102,090
- Mean salary: $127,690
- Hourly mean: $49
- 10th percentile: $59,470
- 90th percentile: $212,650
- Total employed: 798,050
Pay by state
While specific state-by-state data isn't available in the latest BLS release, historical patterns show financial hubs lead. New York, California, and Massachusetts typically pay above the national average, with New York's mean often exceeding $150,000. Lower-cost states like Mississippi, West Virginia, and Arkansas tend to pay below $90,000 on average. For the most recent figures, check the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) from the BLS.
How to become a Financial Analyst or Advisor
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, or business. Entry-level roles like junior analyst or trainee advisor are common. To advance, many pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation for analysis or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for advising—both demand passing exams and relevant experience.
Advisors selling securities must register with FINRA and typically need Series 7 and Series 66 licenses. Some firms sponsor study programs. Internships are the most direct path to a job; many analysts start in commercial banking or brokerage support roles.
- Bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or related field
- CFA or CFP certification for career growth
- Series 7 and 66 licenses for advisors
- Internships or entry-level positions at banks, brokerages, or advisory firms
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for financial analysts and advisors to grow at a rate similar to the average for all occupations over 2024–2034. Specific growth figures are not yet available. Demand is driven by a growing population needing retirement and investment advice, along with complex financial products requiring expert analysis.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Financial Analysts and Advisors?
The national median salary is $102,090, according to the BLS. The mean is $127,690.
What is the highest paying state for this career?
BLS data for 2024 doesn't specify top states, but historically New York, California, and Massachusetts pay above the national average.
How do I become a Financial Analyst or Advisor?
A bachelor's degree in finance or a related field is standard. For analysts, the CFA designation helps; for advisors, the CFP and relevant securities licenses (Series 7/66) are often required.
Is this job growing?
The BLS projects average growth for 2024–2034, though exact figures aren't published yet. Demand remains steady from investment and retirement planning needs.
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 Financial Analysts and Advisors data.