Portfolio Manager vs Quantitative 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.
Quantitative Analyst
Build mathematical models for pricing, risk management, and algorithmic trading.
Quantitative Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $2,910/year (3%) 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 Quantitative Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Portfolio Manager | Quantitative Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,713 | $155,771 | Portfolio $4,058 |
| New York, NY | $123,694 | $130,092 | Portfolio $6,398 |
| Seattle, WA | $146,467 | $151,610 | Portfolio $5,143 |
| Austin, TX | $113,384 | $116,913 | Portfolio $3,529 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,474 | $113,324 | Portfolio $3,850 |
| Boston, MA | $136,585 | $140,826 | Portfolio $4,241 |
| London, UK | £78,248 | £80,687 | Portfolio $2,439 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,044 | CA$142,880 | Portfolio $4,836 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Portfolio Manager or Quantitative Analyst earn more?+
A Quantitative Analyst earns more on average. The national median salary for a Portfolio Manager is $102,740/year, compared to $105,650/year for a Quantitative Analyst — a difference of $2,910 (3%).
Which has better career growth — Portfolio Manager or Quantitative Analyst?+
Portfolio Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Quantitative Analyst demand is growing at 18% YoY. Quantitative Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Portfolio Manager to Quantitative 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 Quantitative Analyst?+
Quantitative Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 42%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.