How Much Does a Financial Analyst Make? Salary and Career Outlook for 2026

Explore the 2026 Salary Guide

Financial analysts play a key role in helping organizations evaluate performance, forecast future outcomes and make data-driven business decisions. As finance teams take on more strategic and analytical responsibilities, demand for skilled financial analysts remains strong across industries.

Research from the 2026 Salary Guide From Robert Half shows how experience, specialized skills and level of responsibility continue to shape financial analyst salaries nationwide.

Whether you’re just starting your career or benchmarking your pay as an experienced analyst, here’s what to know about financial analyst salaries, responsibilities and career progression.

How Much Does a Financial Analyst Make? 2026 Salary & Career Outlook

A closer look at the financial analyst job outlook
What financial analysts do
Financial analyst salary: What you can expect
Financial analyst skills and qualifications employers look for
Financial analyst career path: Where do you go from here?
Frequently asked questions about financial analyst salaries

A closer look at the financial analyst job outlook

The job outlook for financial analysts remains positive as organizations rely more heavily on data to guide strategic planning and investment decisions. As experienced professionals retire and finance teams evolve, employers are expanding analytical roles while prioritizing retention and faster hiring to address critical skills gaps. Many organizations are also willing to offer higher starting salaries for analysts with in-demand capabilities, particularly in areas such as technology implementation, financial reporting, data analytics and financial modeling, which drives demand not just for headcount, but for stronger analytical and technical skills.

What financial analysts do

Financial analysts analyze financial data to support budgeting, forecasting, investment decisions and overall business strategy. They work closely with finance leaders and cross-functional teams to evaluate performance, identify trends and assess risks and opportunities.

Want a broader view of accounting compensation? See the finance and accounting skills and roles driving growth and shaping today’s market.

Financial analyst salary: What you can expect

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Financial analyst salaries reflect the analytical expertise and business impact associated with the role. Pay can vary based on experience level, industry, company size, location and professional credentials. To see what financial analyst roles pay where you live, use our Salary Calculator to explore local salary ranges.

Typical financial analyst responsibilities include:

Analyzing financial statements, budgets and forecasts

Evaluating financial performance and identifying trends or variances

Preparing reports and presentations for management and stakeholders

Supporting budgeting, forecasting and long-range planning efforts

Assisting with performance measurement and key financial metrics

National midpoint salary: $80,000

Many professionals see steady salary growth as they gain experience, take on more complex analysis and develop specialized skills. Additional compensation increases often come with industry expertise, advanced modeling capabilities or certifications such as the CFA.

Financial analyst skills and qualifications employers look for

Employers hiring financial analysts look for a combination of strong analytical ability, technical expertise and business acumen.

Key qualifications often include:

A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics or a related field

Experience with financial analysis, forecasting or budgeting

Strong knowledge of financial statements and performance metrics

Advanced Excel skills and experience with financial modeling

Familiarity with ERP systems and financial planning tools

Data analysis skills and the ability to identify patterns and trends

Clear communication skills and the ability to present insights effectively

Financial analyst career path: Where do you go from here?

The financial analyst role is often a foundation for long-term growth in finance, beginning for many professionals in an entry-level financial analyst position. With the right mix of experience, technical skills and professional development, many financial analysts advance into roles with broader responsibility and higher earning potential. While career paths can vary—from FP&A to compliance and beyond—the progression below reflects one common route into finance leadership.

Senior financial analyst

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Senior financial analysts perform advanced financial analysis and modeling to support planning, budgeting and strategic decision-making. They work closely with management to interpret financial results, explain variances and help ensure financial data is used effectively across the organization.

Typical senior financial analyst responsibilities include:

Performing complex financial analysis and building financial models

Assisting with the preparation of financial plans, budgets and forecasts

Analyzing, interpreting and communicating cost and expense variances to management

Verifying cost allocations in accordance with company procedures

Evaluating borrowing structures to help ensure competitive funding costs

National midpoint salary: $106,000

Financial analysis manager

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Financial analysis managers lead analytical efforts that support forecasting, budgeting and strategic decision-making. They provide insights and recommendations to senior leadership while overseeing analysts and ensuring financial data is used effectively across the organization.

Typical financial analysis manager responsibilities include:

Advising senior leaders on financial performance, risks and opportunities

Shaping budgets and forecasts to support short- and long-term business goals

Monitoring cash flow and key financial outcomes to inform planning decisions

Leading and developing financial analysts to ensure consistent, high-quality analysis

Translating complex financial data into insights that guide operational and strategic choices

Improving analysis workflows and reporting processes to support faster decision-making

National midpoint salary: $119,500

Director of finance

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Directors of finance provide strategic leadership across financial operations, guiding long-term planning, performance management and executive decision-making. As part of the management team, they help shape financial strategy while overseeing key finance functions and teams.

Typical director of finance responsibilities include:

Overseeing insurance and risk management activities

Maintaining and refining budgeting and forecasting models

Performing financial modeling and analysis to support strategic initiatives

Assisting with business funding and capital planning decisions

Hiring, training and retaining finance staff

National midpoint salary: $170,250

For a deeper look at the skills, roles and experience that shape long-term advancement, explore Your Path to Becoming a Financial Analyst: Skills, Roles and Career Growth.

Frequently asked questions about financial analyst salaries

How much does a financial analyst make?

The national midpoint salary for a financial analyst is $80,000, according to the Salary Guide From Robert Half. Actual pay can vary depending on experience, location, industry and credentials.

Is financial analyst a good career move?

Yes. Financial analyst roles offer strong demand, competitive pay and clear pathways to senior and leadership positions. The role provides valuable experience in analysis, forecasting and strategic decision-making.

Do financial analysts need a CFA?

A CFA is not required for all financial analyst roles, but it is highly valued in many organizations, particularly in financial services and investment-focused roles. Earning the designation can support career advancement and higher earning potential.

What comes after financial analyst?

Common next steps include senior financial analyst, finance manager and director of finance roles. With experience and leadership skills, some professionals advance into executive finance positions over time.