Salaries/Financial Analyst vs Investment Banker

Financial Analyst vs Investment Banker Salary

Side-by-side 2026 salary comparison across entry-level, mid-level, and senior pay for Financial Analyst and Investment Banker roles in the US.

Bottom line (mid-level, US median)

Investment Bankers earn $116,000 (56% more) than Financial Analysts on average.

Financial Analyst vs Investment Banker by City

LocationFinancial Analyst (Mid)Investment Banker (Mid)Difference
New York$125K$282K$-157K
Los Angeles$113K$253K$-140K
Chicago$103K$231K$-128K
Dallas$98K$220K$-122K
Houston$97K$218K$-121K
Washington D.C.$118K$264K$-146K
Philadelphia$100K$224K$-124K
Atlanta$98K$220K$-122K

Finance

Financial Analyst

Analyze financial data, build models, and advise on investment and budgeting decisions.

See Financial Analyst salaries in all cities →

Finance

Investment Banker

Advise on M&A, capital markets, and strategic finance transactions for corporates and sponsors.

See Investment Banker salaries in all cities →
🤖

Negotiating a job offer?

Stop guessing. Get personalized scripts, market insights, and expert tactics for your specific situation using our free AI negotiation coach.

Ask the AI Coach

Not sure which path pays better for you?

Salaries.AI personalizes the comparison to your skills, experience, and location — and coaches you through negotiating either offer.