Quantitative Analyst 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.
Quantitative Analyst
Build mathematical models for pricing, risk management, and algorithmic trading.
Private Equity Analyst
Source and evaluate acquisition targets and support portfolio company operations.
Quantitative Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $2,910/year (3%) higher than a Private Equity Analyst. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Quantitative Analyst vs Private Equity Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Quantitative Analyst | Private Equity Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $155,771 | $151,322 | Quantitative +$4,449 |
| New York, NY | $130,092 | $126,878 | Quantitative +$3,214 |
| Seattle, WA | $151,610 | $147,172 | Quantitative +$4,438 |
| Austin, TX | $116,913 | $116,906 | Quantitative +$7 |
| Chicago, IL | $113,324 | $111,730 | Quantitative +$1,594 |
| Boston, MA | $140,826 | $134,203 | Quantitative +$6,623 |
| London, UK | £80,687 | £79,218 | Quantitative +$1,469 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$142,880 | CA$134,781 | Quantitative +$8,099 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Quantitative Analyst or Private Equity 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 Private Equity Analyst — a difference of $2,910 (3%).
Which has better career growth — Quantitative Analyst or Private Equity Analyst?+
Quantitative Analyst roles are growing at 18% YoY while Private Equity Analyst demand is growing at 12% YoY. Quantitative Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Quantitative Analyst 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 — Quantitative Analyst or Private Equity Analyst?+
Private Equity Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (30% vs 35%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.