Portfolio Manager vs Chief Financial Officer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Portfolio Manager
Manage investment portfolios to maximise returns for clients.
Chief Financial Officer
Lead financial planning, reporting, and risk management for the organisation.
Chief Financial Officer earns more on average — the national median is $63,830/year (62%) higher than a Portfolio Manager. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Portfolio Manager vs Chief Financial Officer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Portfolio Manager | Chief Financial Officer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,713 | $247,058 | Portfolio $95,345 |
| New York, NY | $123,694 | $198,791 | Portfolio $75,097 |
| Seattle, WA | $146,467 | $230,837 | Portfolio $84,370 |
| Austin, TX | $113,384 | $190,160 | Portfolio $76,776 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,474 | $173,541 | Portfolio $64,067 |
| Boston, MA | $136,585 | $212,364 | Portfolio $75,779 |
| London, UK | £78,248 | £128,871 | Portfolio $50,623 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,044 | CA$220,071 | Portfolio $82,027 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Portfolio Manager or Chief Financial Officer earn more?+
A Chief Financial Officer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Portfolio Manager is $102,740/year, compared to $166,570/year for a Chief Financial Officer — a difference of $63,830 (62%).
Which has better career growth — Portfolio Manager or Chief Financial Officer?+
Portfolio Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Chief Financial Officer demand is growing at 5% YoY. Portfolio Manager has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Portfolio Manager to Chief Financial Officer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Portfolio Manager or Chief Financial Officer?+
Chief Financial Officer has a lower AI automation risk (18% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.