Sales Managers vs. Financial Managers: Who Earns More?
Financial Managers out-earn Sales Managers by $18K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Sales Managers land at $148,270 and Financial Managers at $166,570. The education gap is real: sales manager programs typically require bachelor's degree, while financial manager programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Sales Managers is New York ($217,640); for Financial Managers it's New York ($219,880).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Sales Managers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Sales Managers or Financial Managers?
Financial Managers earn more nationally. The median is $148,270 for Sales Managers versus $166,570 for Financial Managers, a difference of $18K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Sales Managers or Financial Managers?
Financial Managers has the better 10-year outlook at 14.8% projected growth, compared to 4.7% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Sales Managers or Financial Managers?
Sales Managers typically requires bachelor's degree. Financial Managers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Sales Managers get paid the most?
New York is the top-paying state for Sales Managers at $217,640/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Sales Managers vs. Financial Managers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New York, Sales Managers earn $217,640 vs. $219,880 for Financial Managers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.