Chief Financial Officer Salary & Compensation
Explore comprehensive salary data for Chief Financial Officer roles. Find out how much you can earn based on experience, location, and industry. Get expert negotiation tips.
Average Salary Range
$199,500 - $427,500/ year
Entry Level
Mid Level
Senior Level
12%
Job Growth
Fast
finance
Industry
US Avg
Location Base
Chief Financial Officer professionals earn a competitive salary averaging $285,000 annually, with job growth projected at 12%. Salaries vary significantly based on experience, location, industry, and company size.
Entry Level
0-2 years experience
$199,500 - $239,400
Mid Level
2-5 years experience
$256,500 - $313,500
Senior Level
5-10 years experience
$359,100 - $458,850
Lead/Principal
10+ years experience
$513,000 - $666,900
Chief Financial Officer salaries vary significantly by location. Here are average salaries in top metro areas:
San Francisco, CA
$399,000
New York, NY
$384,750
Seattle, WA
$370,500
Boston, MA
$356,250
Washington, DC
$356,250
Los Angeles, CA
$370,500
Chicago, IL
$327,750
Austin, TX
$313,500
Denver, CO
$313,500
Atlanta, GA
$299,250
Dallas, TX
$299,250
Miami, FL
$285,000
Note: Salaries in major metropolitan areas are higher but consider cost of living when comparing offers. Remote work may allow you to earn metro rates while living in lower-cost areas.
Chief Financial Officer salaries differ across industries. Technology and finance typically lead:
Technology
$370,500
Finance
$356,250
Healthcare
$327,750
Consulting
$342,000
Manufacturing
$270,750
Retail
$242,250
Education
$256,500
Government
$270,750
Experience Level
High ImpactEach year of experience typically adds 3-5% to base salary. Senior roles can pay 50-100% more than entry-level positions.
Location
High ImpactMajor metros pay 20-40% more due to cost of living. Remote work may adjust location-based pay differences.
Industry
Medium ImpactTechnology and finance typically pay 15-30% more than education or non-profit sectors for similar roles.
Company Size
Medium ImpactLarge companies offer 10-25% higher salaries but may have more structured progression. Startups may offer equity.
Education
Medium ImpactAdvanced degrees can add 10-20% to starting salaries. Certifications in specialized skills also boost pay.
Skills
High ImpactIn-demand technical skills, leadership abilities, and specialized knowledge can increase pay by 20-40%.
1. Research Market Rates
Use salary data for Chief Financial Officer roles in your location. Know your worth before negotiating.
2. Consider Total Compensation
Factor in bonuses, stock options, benefits, retirement matching, and other perks beyond base salary.
3. Time Your Negotiation
Negotiate after receiving an offer but before accepting. Leverage multiple offers if you have them.
4. Be Specific But Flexible
Provide a salary range based on research, but show willingness to consider the full compensation package.
5. Highlight Unique Value
Emphasize specialized Chief Financial Officer skills, achievements, and certifications that justify higher pay.
6. Practice Your Pitch
Rehearse your negotiation conversation. Be confident, professional, and respectful throughout.
12%
Projected Growth Rate (10-Year)
Faster than average
The Chief Financial Officer field shows strong growth potential. Factors driving demand include technological advancement, industry expansion, and workforce retirement.
CFO • Finance Director
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