Financial Managers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 818,620 financial managers, and they earn a median of $161,700/year. The range runs from starting around $86K. New York pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level financial managers start around $86K. The gap between that and the median ($162K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $216K | 67,510 |
| New Jersey | $189K | 32,370 |
| District of Columbia | $181K | 7,950 |
| Massachusetts | $181K | 27,690 |
| Delaware | $180K | 2,800 |
| California | $175K | 96,860 |
| Washington | $171K | 13,890 |
| Virginia | $170K | 20,590 |
| Connecticut | $170K | 20,200 |
| Georgia | $163K | 22,720 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a financial managers make?▼
The median financial managers salary in the United States is $161,700 per year ($78/hour). Entry-level positions start around $86,490, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a financial managers?▼
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 managers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for financial managers.
What are the highest paying states for financial managers?▼
The highest paying states for financial managers are New York ($215,740), New Jersey ($188,750), District of Columbia ($181,210), Massachusetts ($181,170), Delaware ($180,050). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.