Quantitative Analyst vs ESG Analyst: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Quantitative Analyst
Build mathematical models for pricing, risk management, and algorithmic trading.
ESG Analyst
Assess environmental, social, and governance factors in investment decisions.
Quantitative Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $2,910/year (3%) higher than a ESG Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Quantitative Analyst vs ESG Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Quantitative Analyst | ESG Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $155,771 | $150,970 | Quantitative +$4,801 |
| New York, NY | $130,092 | $128,930 | Quantitative +$1,162 |
| Seattle, WA | $151,610 | $150,261 | Quantitative +$1,349 |
| Austin, TX | $116,913 | $111,571 | Quantitative +$5,342 |
| Chicago, IL | $113,324 | $112,333 | Quantitative +$991 |
| Boston, MA | $140,826 | $134,464 | Quantitative +$6,362 |
| London, UK | £80,687 | £81,801 | Quantitative $1,114 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$142,880 | CA$133,398 | Quantitative +$9,482 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Quantitative Analyst or ESG Analyst earn more?+
A Quantitative Analyst earns more on average. The national median salary for a Quantitative Analyst is $105,650/year, compared to $102,740/year for a ESG Analyst — a difference of $2,910 (3%).
Which has better career growth — Quantitative Analyst or ESG Analyst?+
Quantitative Analyst roles are growing at 18% YoY while ESG Analyst demand is growing at 35% YoY. ESG Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Quantitative Analyst 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 — Quantitative Analyst or ESG Analyst?+
ESG Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 35%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.