Financial Controller Salary Guide

What is the average salary of a financial controller?

The average salary for a financial controller is $202,609.

A first time financial controller can expect a salary of $80,000-$120,000 then this progresses considerably as you gain experience and knowledge.

Years of Experience Average Salary Range
0-2 years $80,000 – $120,000
3-5 years $100,000 – $130,000
6-8 years $150,000 – $200,000
9+ years $200,000 – $250,000+
0-2 years
Average Salary Range $80,000 – $120,000
3-5 years
Average Salary Range $100,000 – $130,000
6-8 years
Average Salary Range $150,000 – $200,000
9+ years
Average Salary Range $200,000 – $250,000+

Which cities pay financial controllers the most?

City Average Salary Range
New York City, NY $230,000 – $280,000+
San Francisco, CA $210,000 – $260,000+
Los Angeles, CA $190,000 – $240,000+
Chicago, IL $170,000 – $220,000+
Houston, TX $160,000 – $210,000+
New York City, NY
Average Salary Range $230,000 – $280,000+
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary Range $210,000 – $260,000+
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary Range $190,000 – $240,000+
Chicago, IL
Average Salary Range $170,000 – $220,000+
Houston, TX
Average Salary Range $160,000 – $210,000+

Which industries pay financial controllers the most?

  • Technology
  • Financial services
  • Healthcare
  • Energy
  • Manufacturing

How to increase your salary

Obtain Advanced Certifications

These certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) are highly respected in the field and indicate a high level of expertise and commitment to the finance profession. They also open doors to more senior roles that command higher salaries.

According to the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, CPAs generally earn 10-15% more than their non-certified counterparts. Obtaining a CPA or similar certification provides not just a salary boost but also greater job opportunities.

Specialize in Lucrative Industries or Technical Areas

Financial controllers can boost their salary by working in high-paying industries (see above) and developing expertise in high-demand areas such as mergers and acquisitions, risk management, or international finance can lead to opportunities for salary increases. These areas require specialized knowledge that can directly contribute to a company’s profitability and efficiency.

Gain Experience and Excel in Strategic Financial Management

A study published by Robert Half shows that financial professionals who have strong strategic planning and financial forecasting abilities are in high demand, which can lead to salary premiums. Financial controllers who can contribute to strategic decision-making and engage in financial forecasting and planning that leads to business growth are invaluable. By demonstrating their impact on improving profitability and efficiency, they position themselves for higher pay.