Finance Major Salary Guide

So, you’re thinking about Finance Major Salary? Or maybe you already have, and now you’re wondering what comes next. More specifically—how much money will I actually make starting out? That’s a fair question. After all, a college degree is a big investment. It’s only natural to ask about the return.

The good news? Finance Major Salary is one of the most rewarding fields you can enter. Not just financially, but in terms of growth, options, and long-term potential.

In this article, we’ll talk about the finance major starting salary, the kinds of jobs you can land fresh out of school, how your career can grow over time, and whether combining it with business as a double major is worth it.

What Can You Do With a Finance Major?

A finance major doesn’t lock you into one narrow path. It actually opens a lot of doors.

You could work at a big investment bank. Or join a startup’s finance team. Or become someone’s go-to advisor for managing their savings. You’ll learn how to budget, analyze data, build reports, and understand how money flows through companies and markets.

Some common roles include:

• Financial Analyst
• Risk Analyst
• Credit Analyst
• Investment Banker
• Personal Financial Advisor
• Treasury or Budget Analyst
• Fintech Consultant

And if you’re more entrepreneurial? You can even use your finance skills to launch and run your own business.

Finance Major Starting Salary: The Real Numbers

Let’s get to the part you came for—the paycheck.

The average starting salary for finance majors in the U.S. sits between $55,000 and $65,000. But this number changes depending on the job, city, and company you work for.

For example, finance graduates working in New York, Chicago, or San Francisco usually earn more. And if you land a role in investment banking? Expect a starting salary closer to $90,000–$100,000—plus bonuses.

Here’s a snapshot:

Job Title	Starting Salary (USD)
Financial Analyst	$60,000 – $70,000
Investment Banking Analyst	$85,000 – $110,000
Credit Analyst	$55,000 – $62,000
Risk Analyst	$60,000 – $68,000
Personal Financial Advisor	$50,000 – $60,000 + bonus
Finance Assistant	$48,000 – $55,000

Bottom line? You can earn a strong salary early—especially if you back it up with solid experience and skills.

Entry-Level Jobs for Finance Majors

If you’re wondering what kind of jobs are out there right after graduation, here’s what most new finance grads do:

1. Financial Analyst

You’ll review financial data, track performance, and help businesses make smart money moves.

2. Credit Analyst

You’ll evaluate if someone or a company is safe to lend money to. Think loans, credit scores, and risk reports.

3. Risk Analyst

You’ll help businesses figure out what could go wrong financially—and how to protect against it.

4. Personal Banker

You’ll work directly with customers to manage their accounts, savings, and financial goals.

5. Finance Associate

A support role where you help senior managers with budgets, reports, and company finances.

6. Investment Banking Analyst

High pay, long hours. You’ll assist with raising capital, mergers, and acquisitions for major firms.

These jobs build a strong foundation. They also make it easier to grow into better-paid and more strategic roles later.

Finance Career Paths: How It Grows Over Time

Your first job is just the beginning. In finance, careers can move in many directions depending on what you enjoy and where you perform best.

Some people move up the corporate ladder—from analyst to manager to CFO. Others branch into specialized areas like real estate finance, data analysis, or cryptocurrency.

Popular long-term paths:

• Corporate Finance – Working in-house to manage company finances
• Investment Banking – Helping firms raise capital or go public
• Financial Planning – Advising individuals on investments and retirement
• Risk & Compliance – Ensuring businesses follow laws and manage threats
• Fintech – Working on digital banking, mobile wallets, and modern finance tools

Every path comes with new challenges—and usually, higher pay.

Should You Do a Business and Finance Major Together?

A lot of students ask: Should I double major in business and finance?

The answer: if you can handle the workload, it’s often a great move.

Finance gives you the technical edge—data, money management, risk. Business adds the big-picture thinking—leadership, marketing, strategy.

Benefits of combining business and finance:

• You stand out to employers
• You’re prepared for leadership roles sooner
• You’ll qualify for both analytical and managerial jobs
• It’s a strong setup for future MBAs or executive programs

In short, it makes you more well-rounded—and more competitive in today’s job market.

How to Increase Your Starting Salary

Want to earn more right out of the gate? Here’s how to boost your value even before graduation:

• Intern early – Companies love real experience
• Master Excel – It’s the universal language of finance
• Learn financial modeling – This skill impresses hiring managers
• Network smartly – Go to events, connect on LinkedIn, talk to alumni
• Start certifications – Even a CFA Level 1 on your resume helps
• Work on soft skills – Communicating clearly is a secret weapon

Small things add up. And they help you stand out when hundreds of other grads are applying for the same role.

Final Thoughts

Finance is one of the few degrees that pays off quickly—and keeps paying over time. With a starting salary between $55,000 and $65,000, solid entry-level job options, and multiple career paths ahead, it’s a smart choice for students who enjoy numbers, strategy, and problem-solving.

And if you’re still wondering what you can do with a finance major, the answer is simple: a lot. Whether it’s banking, planning, investing, or building your own business, the skills you learn will take you far.