CFO (Chief Financial Officer) Salary (2025)
CFOs oversee all financial activities of an organization.
The median CFO (Chief Financial Officer) salary is $185,000 per year ($89/hour). Entry-level CFO (Chief Financial Officer)s earn around $130,000 while experienced CFO (Chief Financial Officer)s earn $320,000 or more annually.
CFO salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and geography. Financial leaders in technology and healthcare industries command higher salaries, often exceeding $300,000, while those in manufacturing may earn less. Additionally, CFOs in metropolitan areas like San Francisco and New York typically see significant salary premiums, with median salaries surpassing the national average of $185,000.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $185,000 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for CFO (Chief Financial Officer)s
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $263,000 | +42% |
| California | $255,000 | +38% |
| New York | $237,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $231,000 | +25% |
| Massachusetts | $231,000 | +25% |
| New Jersey | $222,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $218,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $213,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a CFO (Chief Financial Officer)
Most CFO (Chief Financial Officer) positions require: Bachelor's in Finance + MBA. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
CFO (Chief Financial Officer) Salary by State
Related Careers in Business
People Also Search For
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average CFO (Chief Financial Officer) salary?
The median CFO (Chief Financial Officer) salary is $185,000 per year, which works out to approximately $89/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level CFO (Chief Financial Officer) make?
Entry-level CFO (Chief Financial Officer)s typically earn around $130,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior CFO (Chief Financial Officer)'s salary?
Experienced CFO (Chief Financial Officer)s can earn up to $320,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a CFO (Chief Financial Officer)?
Most CFO (Chief Financial Officer) positions require: Bachelor's in Finance + MBA.