As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for a Financial Advisor I in the United States is $55,709 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, a Financial Advisor I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Financial Advisor I'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 Financial Advisor I'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Advisor I | 0-2 years | $55,709 |
| Financial Advisor II | 2-4 years | $74,037 |
| Financial Advisor III | 4-7 years | $89,600 |
| Financial Advisor IV | 7+ years | $107,998 |
| Financial Advising Director | 7+ years | $218,684 |
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 Financial Advisor Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Financial Advisor I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $60,062. While startup companies pay approximate $50,871.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $50,871 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $53,794 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $58,022 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $60,062 |
For Financial Advisor I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 95% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Business Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 45% above the average. In contrast, Financial Advisor positions in Insurance or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Financial Advisor I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $80,778 | $39.0 | 45% |
| Business Services | $61,280 | $29.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Financial Advisor I'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 July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Financial Advisor I, 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 Advisor II | $74,037 | 33% |
| Private Banker II | $86,497 | 55% |
Salaries for a Financial Advisor I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $57,349 in 2023 to around $57,173 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Financial Advisor I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $57,349 |
| 2024 | $57,282 |
| 2025 | $57,173 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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A Financial Advisor I'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 Financial Advisor I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Financial Advisor I is $70,266.
The highest pay for Financial Advisor I is $66,534.
The lowest pay for Financial Advisor I is $40,588.
Develops individualized wealth management financial plans and recommendations to help clients attain financial goals. Assesses clients' financial situations, including income, assets, liabilities, and risk tolerance, to develop tailored financial strategies and estate plans. Recommends investment products, insurance, retirement plans, and tax-efficient solutions aligned with client objectives. Monitors market trends and client portfolios to adjust strategies as needed and ensure optimal performance. Keeps abreast of new financial products to inform and advise clients on potential benefits. May be involved with selling or coordinating the purchase of additional financial products or services to clients. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
The Financial Services industry offers the highest average compensation for Financial Advisor I roles, with salaries approximately 45% above the market median.
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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