Many students ask about the CFA average salary before starting the Chartered Financial Analyst journey. They want to know how much they can earn after clearing the CFA exam. The good news is that CFA salaries are pretty attractive. In India, a CFA Level 1 candidate can earn around ₹4–6 LPA, while CFA charterholders can earn ₹10–30 LPA depending on the role and experience. Globally, the CFA average salary ranges from $60,000 to $180,000.
The CFA course prepares students for high-paying roles in finance. These include jobs in investment banking, portfolio management, equity research, and risk management. Your salary depends on your location, CFA level cleared, job title, company type, and years of experience. Many Indian companies and multinational firms hire CFA candidates because they bring strong financial skills and ethics.
CFA Salary by Level — Level 1, Level 2, and CFA Charterholder
When you begin your CFA journey, your salary depends on the level you have cleared. Let’s look at how salary grows as you move from CFA Level 1 to becoming a CFA charter holder.
CFA Level 1 Salary
CFA Level 1 is the first step. Most students apply for jobs after passing Level 1. The CFA Level 1 salary in India ranges between ₹4 and ₹6 LPA (Lakhs Per Annum). Jobs at this stage include roles like research analyst intern, investment analyst, credit analyst, or junior financial analyst.
These roles may not offer high salaries at the start. But they give you practical experience, help you build a strong resume, and prepare you for better roles once you clear Level 2. Companies prefer candidates who show a deep interest in finance and have already taken the first CFA exam.
CFA Level 2 Salary
After passing Level 2, your salary improves. Companies start treating you as a serious candidate for core finance roles. The CFA Level 2 average salary in India goes up to ₹6–10 LPA. You can apply for roles like equity research associate, risk analyst, and fund analyst.
At this stage, your knowledge of financial modelling, valuation, and portfolio concepts improves. If you also learn Excel, Python, or financial modelling with CFA Level 2, your chances of getting hired at better pay increase even more.
CFA Charterholder Salary
Once you complete all three CFA levels and get the required work experience, you become a CFA charter holder. This is when you start earning the top salaries in the finance world. The CFA charter holder’s average wage in India is between ₹10–30 LPA, depending on your job, city, and company.
Charterholders can work as portfolio managers, fund managers, investment bankers, wealth managers, and senior financial consultants. In global markets like the USA, UK, or UAE, salaries go even higher, often crossing $100,000 per year.
CFA Average Salary in India — City-Wise Comparison
Salaries in India differ based on the city. Metro cities offer more job opportunities and higher wages. Let’s explore the CFA average salary in India across central locations.
Mumbai
Mumbai is the financial capital of India. Most banks, investment firms, and asset management companies are based here. The CFA salary in Mumbai for charterholders ranges from ₹12 to ₹35 LPA. Even CFA Level 1 and Level 2 candidates can earn ₹5–8 LPA if they join the right companies. Jobs in mutual funds, broking firms, and fintech startups are also growing here.
Delhi NCR
Delhi is another good city for finance jobs. The average salary for CFA professionals in Delhi NCR is around ₹10–25 LPA. Many consulting firms, private banks, and research firms hire CFA candidates here. Gurgaon is becoming a hub for startups and investment firms, offering competitive pay to CFA aspirants.
Bangalore
Bangalore is known for tech companies, but it also has many fintech and financial consulting firms. CFA salary in Bangalore ranges from ₹8–20 LPA. Many CFA charterholders work in roles like risk modelling, financial planning, and fintech analysis here. Companies like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan have offices in Bangalore and prefer CFA-qualified candidates.
Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai
These cities are rising fast in terms of finance job opportunities. While the CFA average salary in Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai may start slightly lower (around ₹6–8 LPA), senior roles easily cross ₹15–20 LPA. The cost of living is lower, which means better savings too.
CFA Salary by Job Role — Freshers to Senior Professionals
Let’s now look at the CFA average salary by job profile. This gives a clearer idea of what type of role you can expect at each stage.
Entry-Level CFA Jobs and Salaries
At the beginning, most CFA Level 1 or Level 2 students get roles like
- Research Analyst (₹4–6 LPA)
- Credit Analyst (₹5–7 LPA)
- Financial Analyst (₹4–8 LPA)
- Risk Analyst (₹5–9 LPA)
These jobs build a strong base. They help you learn financial statements, Excel tools, and company analysis. Over time, you move into advanced roles.
Mid-Level CFA Jobs and Salaries
Once you gain 3–5 years of experience or complete all CFA levels, you can apply for roles like:
- Equity Research Associate (₹8–14 LPA)
- Investment Analyst (₹10–15 LPA)
- Portfolio Analyst (₹10–20 LPA)
In these roles, you take more responsibility, manage clients, and analyze bigger portfolios. CFA knowledge plays a significant role here in decision-making.
Senior CFA Jobs and Salaries
As a CFA charter holder with 5+ years of experience, you can reach top-paying positions like:
- Portfolio Manager (₹15–40 LPA)
- Fund Manager (₹20–50 LPA)
- Chief Financial Analyst (₹25+ LPA)
- Wealth Manager (₹15–35 LPA)
These roles often come with bonuses, performance-based pay, and stock options. Your salary depends on your company type and how well your investment decisions perform.
CFA Salary in India vs Abroad — Global Comparison
CFA is a globally respected certification. Let’s compare the CFA average salary in India with that of the USA, UK, UAE, and Singapore.
| Country | CFA Average Salary (Annual) | Level of Roles Available |
| India | ₹10–30 LPA | Analyst to Portfolio Manager |
| USA | $90,000 – $180,000 | Portfolio Manager, Senior Analyst, VP |
| UK | £60,000 – £120,000 | Investment Consultant, Asset Manager |
| UAE | AED 200,000 – 400,000 | Equity Analyst, Fund Manager, CFO |
| Singapore | SGD 90,000 – 150,000 | Wealth Advisor, Portfolio Analyst |
In Western countries, salaries are higher due to currency differences and market maturity. But even in India, your CFA can help you reach senior roles in MNCs and investment firms.
How to Increase CFA Salary — Smart Career Tips
You can increase your CFA salary over time by following some proven strategies. These work for both freshers and working professionals.
Learn Extra Skills
CFA gives you core finance knowledge. But if you also learn tools like Excel, Power BI, Python, or financial modelling, you can apply for better roles. Many companies want candidates who can analyze data and make dashboards.
Get Internships and Experience Early
Try to get internships in equity research, credit analysis, or finance roles during CFA Level 1 or Level 2. Even unpaid internships give real experience and improve your resume.
Choose the Right Company
Try to join investment banks, research firms, and fund houses. These companies pay more than regular banks or sales jobs. Always check if the job profile matches your CFA skills.
Keep Networking
Join CFA local chapters, LinkedIn groups, and finance events. Many job opportunities come from referrals and professional networks. The CFA Institute also offers job boards and networking tools.
CFA Average Salary FAQs
1. What is the CFA average salary in India?
The CFA average salary in India ranges between ₹4 to ₹6 LPA for CFA Level 1 candidates and ₹10 to ₹30 LPA for CFA charterholders. Salary depends on your job role, city, and experience.
2. How much does a CFA earn in the USA?
In the USA, CFA charterholders earn an average salary between $90,000 to $180,000 per year. Some experienced professionals even earn more, especially in portfolio management and investment banking.
3. Does CFA guarantee a high salary?
CFA does not guarantee a high salary, but it improves your chances. If you have good communication skills, practical skills, and industry knowledge, CFA will help you get better roles and faster promotions.
4. What is the starting salary after CFA Level 1?
The starting salary after CFA Level 1 is around ₹4–6 LPA in India. You can get roles like research analyst, credit analyst, or junior financial analyst. With experience and Level 2, salary grows quickly.
5. Which cities offer the highest CFA salaries in India?
Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore offer the highest CFA salaries. You can also find good opportunities in Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Metro cities have more finance firms and investment jobs.
6. Does a CFA pay more than an MBA?
If you do an MBA from a top B-school like IIM or ISB, your starting salary may be higher. However, CFA salary grows steadily with experience, especially in core finance roles. CFA is better for investment-related careers.
