Financial Risk Specialists Salary Guide 2025: Median Pay Hits $117,330
The median salary for Financial Risk Specialists in the U.S. is $117,330 per year, or about $56 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% earn over $196,110, while entry-level positions start around $64,820. This article breaks down pay by state, the career path, and the 6.5% projected growth through 2034.
How much Financial Risk Specialists earn
Financial Risk Specialists are well compensated, with a national mean wage of $124,420. The typical range runs from $64,820 at the 10th percentile to $196,110 at the 90th percentile. Those in the top tier often have advanced certifications or years of experience in areas like credit risk or market risk.
- Median annual salary: $117,330
- Mean hourly wage: $56.00
- 10th percentile: $64,820
- 90th percentile: $196,110
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The highest-paying state is New Hampshire, where the average salary reaches $158,320. Maine ($141,020), Delaware ($139,440), New York ($136,830), and North Carolina ($132,040) also pay well above the national median. On the lower end, North Dakota averages $74,630, Arkansas $66,110, and Louisiana $58,440. These differences reflect cost of living and local demand.
How to become Financial Risk Specialist
Most Financial Risk Specialists hold a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field. A master’s degree (e.g., MBA or Master’s in Finance) can boost advancement. Professional certifications like the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) from GARP or the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) are common and often expected for senior roles. Entry-level jobs often start as analysts in banks, insurance companies, or consulting firms.
- Education: Bachelor’s in finance, economics, or accounting
- Advanced degree: MBA or Master’s in Finance helpful
- Certifications: FRM, CFA, or PRM
- Experience: 2-5 years as a financial analyst typically required
Job outlook
Employment of Financial Risk Specialists is projected to grow 6.5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 4,800 new openings each year over the decade, mostly from growth and replacements. There are currently 63,850 workers in this role. Banks, investment firms, and regulatory agencies are the main employers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Financial Risk Specialists in 2025?
The national median salary is $117,330 per year, with a typical range of $64,820 to $196,110.
What education do you need to become a Financial Risk Specialist?
A bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or accounting is standard. Certifications like FRM or CFA are highly valued.
Is Financial Risk Specialist a growing career?
Yes, 6.5% growth projected through 2034, with about 4,800 annual openings.
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 Risk Specialists data.