Financial Examiner Salary 2025: $94,160 Median, +18.5% Growth
The median Financial Examiner salary is $94,160, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $45 an hour, with the average hitting $106,240. The typical range runs from $56,230 at the 10th percentile up to $174,200 for top earners.
Employment stands at 67,830. The BLS projects 18.5% growth from 2024 to 2034—much faster than the average occupation—with about 5,700 new openings each year. This guide covers pay, career path, and outlook for U.S. financial examiners.
How much Financial Examiners earn
The median annual wage for Financial Examiners is $94,160. The mean wage is $106,240, reflecting higher salaries at the top. By the hour, that's about $45 on average.
The lowest 10% earn $56,230 or less, while the highest 10% pull in $174,200 or more. Pay varies significantly by industry, experience, and location.
- Median: $94,160
- Mean: $106,240 ($51.08/hr)
- 10th percentile: $56,230
- 90th percentile: $174,200
Pay by state
The District of Columbia pays the most, with an average annual wage of $198,720. New York follows at $128,920, then Connecticut at $120,530. Washington state and Massachusetts round out the top five at $113,700 and $111,110, respectively.
At the bottom, Hawaii averages $62,720, West Virginia $60,590, and Arkansas $57,590. Even the lowest-paying states still offer wages above the national median for all occupations.
- Top: DC ($198,720), NY ($128,920), CT ($120,530), WA ($113,700), MA ($111,110)
- Bottom: HI ($62,720), WV ($60,590), AR ($57,590)
How to become Financial Examiner
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry requirement. Common majors include accounting, finance, economics, or business. Some employers prefer a master's degree or an MBA for advanced roles.
Many financial examiners hold relevant certifications. The most common is the Certified Financial Examiner (CFE) from the Society of Financial Examiners. Others include the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).
Entry-level positions often start in banks, credit unions, or regulatory agencies. On-the-job training covers federal and state regulations, auditing procedures, and risk assessment.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
- Gain 1-2 years of experience in banking, auditing, or compliance.
- Consider certifications like CFE, CPA, or CIA.
- Apply with federal agencies (FDIC, OCC) or state regulatory bodies.
Job outlook
Employment of financial examiners is projected to grow 18.5% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 5,700 openings per year, many of which come from workers retiring or moving to other jobs.
Drivers include increased regulation in the financial industry, new compliance requirements, and the growth of fintech. Demand will be strongest in states with large financial sectors, like New York and California.
- Projected growth (2024-2034): 18.5%
- Annual openings: ~5,700
- Key factors: regulatory complexity, fintech expansion
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for a financial examiner in 2025?
The median salary is $94,160, with a typical range from $56,230 to $174,200. The average (mean) is $106,240.
How do I become a financial examiner?
You need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Relevant experience in banking or auditing is important. Certifications like CFE or CPA can help advancement.
Is financial examiner a good career?
Yes—strong job growth (18.5%), above-average pay, and stable demand due to financial regulations. Top earners exceed $174,000.
Which states pay financial examiners the most?
District of Columbia ($198,720), New York ($128,920), Connecticut ($120,530), Washington ($113,700), and Massachusetts ($111,110).
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 Examiners data.