Top 12 High-Paying Careers in Finance for 2024

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Job security is always a big deal when picking a career, but some fields handle tough times better than others. While no job is entirely safe from cuts or layoffs, some industries are more resilient.

Finance is one such industry that tends to hold strong, even during economic downturns. People always need financial services, whether it’s for investing, taking out loans, or managing taxes. Although the finance sector has its ups and downs, it usually bounces back quickly after a slump.

If you’re thinking about a career in finance, you’re probably curious about the best-paying jobs. With that in mind, here’s a look at some of the highest-paying finance jobs for 2024:

1. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

   • Average salary: $314,481 per year
   • The CFO oversees the financial health of an organization, handling everything from financial planning to risk management. These professionals are highly valued for their expertise and leadership.

2. Financial Manager

   • Average salary: $139,790 per year
   • Financial managers develop long-term financial plans, direct investment activities, and generate financial reports. This role is in high demand, with job growth expected to rise by 16% over the next decade.

3. Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)

   • Average salary: $242,601 per year
   • CCOs ensure companies follow laws and regulations, making their role crucial in avoiding non-compliance fees. This demanding but rewarding job requires a background in finance, law, or business administration.

4. Insurance Advisor

   • Average salary: $79,967 per year
   • Insurance advisors help clients find the best policies for their needs and guide them through understanding their coverage and filing claims. A degree in finance and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification are often required.

5. Hedge Fund Manager

   • Average salary: $137,834 per year
   • These managers use their knowledge of financial markets to manage investments, aiming to offset risk and maximize returns. A finance degree is usually required.

6. Financial Examiner

   • Average salary: $63,238 per year
   • Financial examiners ensure banks comply with regulations and have enough liquidity. This role blends finance and law, requiring at least a bachelor’s degree.

7. Personal Financial Advisor

   • Average salary: $73,021 per year
   • Advisors help individuals make informed financial decisions, guiding them through investments and major life events like retirement or saving for education.

8. Senior Accountants

   • Average salary: $95,301 per year
   • Responsible for managing an organization’s financial records, senior accountants prepare financial statements and oversee budgeting. A degree in accounting and a CPA designation are often needed.

9. Investment Banker

   • Average salary: $256,256 per year
   • Investment bankers advise clients on financial transactions, like mergers and acquisitions, and help raise capital by issuing securities. This high-pressure job requires quick thinking and long hours.

10. Financial Analyst

    • Average salary: $86,998 per year
    • Analysts provide advice on investments and track economic trends. They support financial institutions with customer decisions and overall financial needs.

11. Information Technology Auditor

    • Average salary: $86,121 per year
    • IT auditors ensure financial institutions have safeguards for their information assets. Degrees in computer science, information systems, or accounting are common.

12. Budget Analyst

    • Average salary: $64,126 per year
    • Budget analysts help businesses and individuals manage their finances by evaluating spending and finding cost-saving methods. They typically work in government or accounting firms.

Related: Real Estate Profession
The real estate industry offers roles like agents, appraisers, and property managers, each with the potential for high earnings.

Skills for Success in Finance
To succeed in finance, you need strong accounting, management, and analytical thinking skills. Good communication and financial decision-making skills are also critical.

The Benefits of a Finance Career
A career in finance offers a variety of roles, job security, high earning potential, and high job satisfaction. Flexibility and growth opportunities are also significant benefits.

Is Finance Right for You?
A finance degree offers substantial earning potential and job stability. If this field doesn’t appeal to you, there are other career paths to explore.