As of June 01, 2026, the average salary for a Business Unit Controller in the United States is $138,629 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $67.
However, a Business Unit Controller's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Business Unit Controller's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Business Unit Controller's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Business Unit Controller | $133,450 |
| Intermediate Level Business Unit Controller | $134,072 |
| Senior Level Business Unit Controller | $136,143 |
| Specialist Level Business Unit Controller | $138,629 |
| Expert Level Business Unit Controller | $141,817 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Business Unit Controllers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Leadership | 10.12% |
| CPA | 1.63% |
| Packaging | 1.15% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Customer Relationship
|
$152,492 |
10%
|
|
RFP
|
$151,106 |
9%
|
|
Consulting
|
$148,333 |
7%
|
|
Insight
|
$145,560 |
5%
|
|
Forecasting
|
$144,174 |
4%
|
|
Project Management
|
$144,174 |
4%
|
Understanding how a Business Unit Controller's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on June 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Business Unit Controller, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Control Senior Manager | $163,117 | 18% |
| Business Unit Controller, Sr. | $180,143 | 30% |
Salaries for a Business Unit Controller can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $110,976 in 2023 to around $111,478 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Business Unit Controller salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $110,976 |
| 2024 | $111,668 |
| 2025 | $111,478 |
| 2026 |
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|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Business Unit Controller and their salaries, click below for more details.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Business Unit Controller job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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A Business Unit Controller's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Business Unit Controller earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Business Unit Controller is $174,853.
The highest pay for Business Unit Controller is $162,636.
The lowest pay for Business Unit Controller is $112,114.
Directs the overall accounting functions for a single business unit. Collects and compiles financial data at the business unit level and oversees the preparation of forecasts, tax filings, financial, budget, auditing and other reports. Ensures that the business unit complies with accounting regulations and standards and adheres to company policies and procedures. Requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a director. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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