Financial Manager Salary Guide 2025: Median $166,570, Outlook 14.8% Growth
The median financial manager earns $166,570 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024 estimates. That's about $80 an hour. The top 10% pull in over $323,270, while entry-level positions start around $94,310. With 841,710 jobs nationwide and a much-faster-than-average growth rate of 14.8% from 2024 to 2034, this is one of the most lucrative and stable white-collar careers in America.
How much Financial Managers earn
The mean annual wage across all financial managers is $186,910. Half of all workers earn between the 25th percentile ($128,320) and 75th percentile ($228,370). At the extremes, the lowest 10% earn less than $94,310, while the highest 10% exceed $323,270.
Pay by state
Location strongly affects earnings. New York tops the list with an average salary of $219,880, followed by Massachusetts ($206,760), New Jersey ($199,110), the District of Columbia ($188,880), and Virginia ($185,220). At the other end, the lowest-paying states are Mississippi ($111,390), West Virginia ($113,140), and Arkansas ($116,570).
How to become a Financial Manager
Most financial managers hold a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business administration. A master’s degree, especially an MBA, is common for advancement, but not always required if you have significant experience. Many start as financial analysts, accountants, or auditors and move up after building a track record. Professional certifications—such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA)—are not mandatory but can boost credibility and earning potential. Expect to spend at least five years in a related role before qualifying for a management position.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 14.8% growth for financial managers from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 74,600 job openings each year, many from retirements or workers transferring to other roles. Demand is driven by globalization, regulatory changes, and the increasing complexity of financial systems. Industries like healthcare, tech, and multinational corporations will be especially active.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for a Financial Manager in 2025?
The latest BLS data (as of 2024) shows a median annual wage of $166,570, or about $80 per hour.
What degree do I need to become a Financial Manager?
A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business is the typical entry requirement. An MBA is common for senior roles. Five years or more of experience in a related job, such as financial analyst, is also needed.
Is financial management a growing field?
Yes. The BLS projects 14.8% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 74,600 new openings per year. It's rated 'much faster than average.'
Which states pay financial managers the most?
New York ($219,880), Massachusetts ($206,760), New Jersey ($199,110), District of Columbia ($188,880), and Virginia ($185,220) are the highest-paying, according to BLS state data.
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 Managers data.