Financial Examiners: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 62,830 financial examiners, and they earn a median of $90,400/year. The range runs from $53K to $172K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level financial examiners start around $53K. The gap between that and the median ($90K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $172K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $178K | 590 |
| Connecticut | $132K | 390 |
| New York | $127K | 10,580 |
| Washington | $110K | 410 |
| New Hampshire | $109K | 90 |
| California | $106K | 3,690 |
| New Jersey | $103K | 2,810 |
| Illinois | $100K | 2,970 |
| Minnesota | $96K | 1,100 |
| Delaware | $95K | 520 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a financial examiners make?▼
The median financial examiners salary in the United States is $90,400 per year ($43/hour). Entry-level positions start around $53,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $171,540.
What education do you need to become a financial examiners?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for financial examiners?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for financial examiners.
What are the highest paying states for financial examiners?▼
The highest paying states for financial examiners are District of Columbia ($177,550), Connecticut ($132,320), New York ($127,190), Washington ($110,340), New Hampshire ($109,010). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.