Portfolio Manager vs ESG Analyst: 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.
ESG Analyst
Assess environmental, social, and governance factors in investment decisions.
Portfolio Manager earns more on average — the national median is $0/year (0%) higher than a ESG Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Portfolio Manager vs ESG Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Portfolio Manager | ESG Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,713 | $150,970 | Portfolio +$743 |
| New York, NY | $123,694 | $128,930 | Portfolio $5,236 |
| Seattle, WA | $146,467 | $150,261 | Portfolio $3,794 |
| Austin, TX | $113,384 | $111,571 | Portfolio +$1,813 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,474 | $112,333 | Portfolio $2,859 |
| Boston, MA | $136,585 | $134,464 | Portfolio +$2,121 |
| London, UK | £78,248 | £81,801 | Portfolio $3,553 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,044 | CA$133,398 | Portfolio +$4,646 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Portfolio Manager or ESG Analyst earn more?+
A Portfolio Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Portfolio Manager is $102,740/year, compared to $102,740/year for a ESG Analyst — a difference of $0 (0%).
Which has better career growth — Portfolio Manager or ESG Analyst?+
Portfolio Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while ESG Analyst demand is growing at 35% YoY. ESG Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Portfolio Manager to ESG Analyst?+
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 ESG Analyst?+
ESG Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.