Securing a position in a major global financial center like the United Kingdom is a major career milestone for aspiring finance professionals. Pursuing a strong and internationally recognized credential, the Chartered Financial Analyst can unlock high-paying jobs in the UK’s vibrant finance sector, but before taking such a big step, it’s important to know the actual income possibilities.
This thorough guide breaks down the Chartered Financial Analyst salary in the UK by job function, experience, and location to provide the estimated salary for 2025.
Chartered Financial Analyst Salary in the UK by Experience
Every student who plans to pursue a profession in finance must under how experience impacts CFA salary. In the UK, your pay will increase gradually as you gain years of experience and advance as a CFA. Businesses reward people who demonstrate both knowledge and a practical job background with higher salaries and promotions. Long-term dedication and certified abilities like CFA are rewarded in the UK banking sector.
| Entry-level £159,000 – £238,500
1-3 years £238,500 – £318,000 3-5 years £291,500 – £397,500 5-10 years £371,000 – £503,500 10+ years £477,000 – £795,000 |
Chartered Financial Analyst Salary in the UK by Industry
Depending on the business or area they work in, a CFA salary can vary greatly. Because of the complexity of the work and the amount of skill needed in the field, the banking business pays more than other sectors. Using the table below, let’s examine the average total salaries of a certified public accountant by sector:
| Investment Banking £416,000 – £624,000
Asset Management £312,000 – £520,000 Hedge Funds £364,000 – £676,000 Private Equity £416,000 – £780,000 Consulting £364,000 – £624,000 Insurance £260,000 – £416,000 Pension Funds £312,000 – £468,000 Commercial Banking £260,000 – £468,000 Financial Advisory £312,000 – £520,000 |
Chartered Financial Analyst Salary in the UK by Job Role
The CFA charter is a key that provides access to numerous profitable positions throughout the financial industry, not a ticket to a single position. The single most important factor influencing pay is the particular job function.
- Portfolio Managers: Portfolio Managers are held to a high standard of responsibility and receive a higher Chartered Financial Analyst salary in the UK. In 2025, a portfolio manager in the UK can expect earnings between £90,000 and £170,000 in base pay, with performance-based bonuses frequently surpassing base pay in a successful year.
- Equity Research Analyst: Both buy-side and sell-side equity research analysts are highly sought after. A senior analyst with much expertise might earn a salary well over £120,000, whereas a junior analyst may begin at £55,000 to £70,000.
- Investment Banking Analyst: Investment banking is well known for its high standards and outstanding financial returns. The CFA salary in the UK as an Analyst or Associate in a UK-based investment bank is from £65,000 to £95,000.
- Risk Manager: Risk managers with the ability to recognize, evaluate, and reduce financial risks are essential in today’s more complicated financial environment. The CFA salary range for a Financial Risk Manager is £70,000 to £110,000.
CFA Salary As per Location: London vs. Other Cities
- London: For CFA professionals, London offers the best Chartered Financial Analyst salary. London compensation is often 15–25% greater than that of other UK regions. In London, a mid-level CFA charterholder might earn between £80,000 and over £100,000 per year.
- Financial centers: Other financial centers, like Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Manchester, have competitive possibilities and are expanding financial industries. In these cities, a comparable mid-level professional might make between £60,000 and £80,000.
This was the overview of CFA salaries in the UK. Hopefully, you have found it helpful and interesting. If you are looking for a comprehensive CFA course, consider Mirchawala as your one-stop destination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a Chartered Financial Analyst’s Salary in the UK?
Ans: Chartered Financial Analysts in the UK can earn an estimated average salary of £37,000 to over £150,000 per year.
Q: What influences CFA salaries?
Ans: CFA salaries and job opportunities are influenced by factors such as experience, industry demand, location, and the overall economic climate.
Q: Are CFA salaries higher compared to other industries?
Ans: CFA salaries can be higher compared to some other industries, especially in finance-related sectors.
Q: Which are the best cities for CFA jobs?
Ans: Cities like New York, London, Singapore, Dubai, Toronto, and Mumbai top the list of hiring CFA charterholders.
