Project Manager vs Business Analyst: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Project Manager
Plan, execute, and close projects on time and within budget.
Business Analyst
Analyse business processes and requirements to improve operations.
Business Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $9,277/year (9%) higher than a Project Manager. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Project Manager vs Business Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Project Manager | Business Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $153,305 | $162,570 | Project $9,265 |
| New York, NY | $124,250 | $132,992 | Project $8,742 |
| Seattle, WA | $149,604 | $163,597 | Project $13,993 |
| Austin, TX | $112,715 | $121,754 | Project $9,039 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,133 | $118,037 | Project $8,904 |
| Boston, MA | $130,013 | $150,169 | Project $20,156 |
| London, UK | £74,138 | £85,946 | Project $11,808 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$135,689 | CA$146,224 | Project $10,535 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Manager or Business Analyst earn more?+
A Business Analyst earns more on average. The national median salary for a Project Manager is $102,320/year, compared to $111,597/year for a Business Analyst — a difference of $9,277 (9%).
Which has better career growth — Project Manager or Business Analyst?+
Project Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Business Analyst demand is growing at 14% YoY. Business Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Project Manager to Business Analyst?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: Agile.
Which is harder to automate — Project Manager or Business Analyst?+
Project Manager has a lower AI automation risk (32% vs 55%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.