Career paths
Financial planning is growing as a profession with a wide range of career opportunities. Personal financial advisors help their clients to plan their financial lives and reach their financial goals. Financial Advisor ranks in the top ten of best business jobs, and there are also many other career paths you can pursue in the financial planning field.
With financial planning skills, you can get a job in the financial sector (e.g., banking, wealth management) and other private sectors. You can move into the academia as a researcher or professor. You can focus on your independent ideas and start your own company. With so many available career paths, you will be able to choose the right fit for your future.
The average annual pay for personal financial advisors was $174,596 in 2023. The median income for a financial planner with 5 to 10 years of experience is $149K, 11-to-20-year experience is $239K, and with over 20 years of experience is $359K. Financial advisors are ranked #2 in Best Business jobs by U.S. News and World Report in 2025. Financial planning jobs are expected to grow faster than average, at a rate of 10% through 2034. Based on a 10-year projection, the estimated job growth in personal financial advisors is 17.1%.
Common Job Roles
- Investment Advising Roles
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Manager
- Portfolio Manager
- Roles in Financial Services
- Associate Advisor
- Personal Financial Planner
- Wealth Management Advisor
- Client Services Advisor
According to The U.S. Labor Department, financial planning jobs are expected to grow faster than average, at a rate of 13% through 2032. According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Jobs rankings, Financial Advisor is among the nation’s most sought-after careers, earning the #13 spot in the 100 Best Jobs and #2 in Best Business Jobs. This national recognition underscores the essential role financial planners play in helping individuals navigate today’s dynamic financial environment.
