Portfolio Manager vs Insurance Agent: 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.
Insurance Agent
Sell and service insurance products for individuals and businesses.
Portfolio Manager earns more on average — the national median is $50,165/year (95%) higher than a Insurance Agent. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Portfolio Manager vs Insurance Agent — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Portfolio Manager | Insurance Agent | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,713 | $76,630 | Portfolio +$75,083 |
| New York, NY | $123,694 | $64,658 | Portfolio +$59,036 |
| Seattle, WA | $146,467 | $76,490 | Portfolio +$69,977 |
| Austin, TX | $113,384 | $60,418 | Portfolio +$52,966 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,474 | $56,339 | Portfolio +$53,135 |
| Boston, MA | $136,585 | $67,008 | Portfolio +$69,577 |
| London, UK | £78,248 | £40,898 | Portfolio +$37,350 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,044 | CA$71,763 | Portfolio +$66,281 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Portfolio Manager or Insurance Agent earn more?+
A Portfolio Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Portfolio Manager is $102,740/year, compared to $52,575/year for a Insurance Agent — a difference of $50,165 (95%).
Which has better career growth — Portfolio Manager or Insurance Agent?+
Portfolio Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Insurance Agent demand is growing at 6% YoY. Portfolio Manager has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Portfolio Manager to Insurance Agent?+
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 Insurance Agent?+
Insurance Agent has a lower AI automation risk (42% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.