Portfolio Manager vs Private Equity 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.
Private Equity Analyst
Source and evaluate acquisition targets and support portfolio company operations.
Portfolio Manager earns more on average — the national median is $0/year (0%) higher than a Private Equity Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Portfolio Manager vs Private Equity Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Portfolio Manager | Private Equity Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,713 | $151,322 | Portfolio +$391 |
| New York, NY | $123,694 | $126,878 | Portfolio $3,184 |
| Seattle, WA | $146,467 | $147,172 | Portfolio $705 |
| Austin, TX | $113,384 | $116,906 | Portfolio $3,522 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,474 | $111,730 | Portfolio $2,256 |
| Boston, MA | $136,585 | $134,203 | Portfolio +$2,382 |
| London, UK | £78,248 | £79,218 | Portfolio $970 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,044 | CA$134,781 | Portfolio +$3,263 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Portfolio Manager or Private Equity 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 Private Equity Analyst — a difference of $0 (0%).
Which has better career growth — Portfolio Manager or Private Equity Analyst?+
Portfolio Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Private Equity Analyst demand is growing at 12% YoY. Private Equity Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Portfolio Manager to Private Equity 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 Private Equity Analyst?+
Private Equity Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.