Quantitative Analyst vs Financial Controller: 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.
Financial Controller
Oversee accounting operations and ensure financial reporting accuracy.
Quantitative Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $21,970/year (26%) higher than a Financial Controller. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Quantitative Analyst vs Financial Controller — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Quantitative Analyst | Financial Controller | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $155,771 | $118,608 | Quantitative +$37,163 |
| New York, NY | $130,092 | $99,857 | Quantitative +$30,235 |
| Seattle, WA | $151,610 | $116,840 | Quantitative +$34,770 |
| Austin, TX | $116,913 | $95,143 | Quantitative +$21,770 |
| Chicago, IL | $113,324 | $87,358 | Quantitative +$25,966 |
| Boston, MA | $140,826 | $111,873 | Quantitative +$28,953 |
| London, UK | £80,687 | £66,637 | Quantitative +$14,050 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$142,880 | CA$108,997 | Quantitative +$33,883 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Quantitative Analyst or Financial Controller earn more?+
A Quantitative Analyst earns more on average. The national median salary for a Quantitative Analyst is $105,650/year, compared to $83,680/year for a Financial Controller — a difference of $21,970 (26%).
Which has better career growth — Quantitative Analyst or Financial Controller?+
Quantitative Analyst roles are growing at 18% YoY while Financial Controller demand is growing at 8% YoY. Quantitative Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Quantitative Analyst to Financial Controller?+
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 Financial Controller?+
Quantitative Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 48%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.