How much does a Budget Analyst make?
A Budget Analyst earns a good salary. On average, they make about $82,708 a year. This job involves planning and managing an organization's finances. The pay can vary based on experience and location.
Here’s a look at the different pay levels for Budget Analysts:
- The lowest 10% make less than $44,701.
- The next 20% make between $44,701 and $66,237.
- The middle 20% make between $66,237 and $77,005.
- The next 20% make between $77,005 and $87,773.
- The highest 10% make over $120,076.
What are the highest paying cities for a Budget Analyst?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $112,072
In San Francisco, financial analysts help shape the budget for tech giants. Companies like Google and Salesforce look for experts to manage their finances. The city's innovative environment makes it an exciting place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $108,952
Washington, DC, offers budget analysts a chance to work in government. Federal agencies need experts to manage large budgets. The city provides a dynamic setting for those who want to impact public policy.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $105,441
Sacramento is home to many government positions. Budget analysts work on state budgets, making them crucial for public services. The city offers a mix of government and private opportunities.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $98,826
In Colorado Springs, budget analysts often work with defense contractors. Companies like Lockheed Martin need financial experts. The city's strong economy provides stability and growth opportunities.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $98,384
Huntsville is known as the 'Rocket City'. Budget analysts here work with aerospace companies. Firms like NASA and Redstone Arsenal need experts to handle budgets. It's a great place for those interested in technology and defense.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $96,780
Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities for budget analysts. Entertainment companies like Disney and Warner Bros. need financial experts. The city's vibrant culture adds to the appeal of working here.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $95,650
Seattle is a hub for tech companies. Budget analysts play a key role in managing finances for giants like Microsoft and Amazon. The city's innovative spirit makes it an exciting place to work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $94,062
Portland offers a unique blend of work and lifestyle. Budget analysts here manage budgets for tech startups and established companies. The city's focus on sustainability adds to the appeal.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $93,774
Honolulu provides a laid-back environment for budget analysts. Government and tourism sectors need financial experts. The island lifestyle offers a great work-life balance.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $91,276
Salem is the capital city of Oregon. Budget analysts here work on state budgets and public services. The city offers a stable and rewarding career in government finance.
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What are the best companies a Budget Analyst can work for?

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US Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the Office of the U.S. Attorneys
Average Salary: $100,329
The US Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and the Office of the U.S. Attorneys offers promising opportunities for budget analysts across the United States. These roles involve meticulous financial planning and analysis, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. Positions are available in various locations, including Washington, D.C., and major cities nationwide.
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Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)
Average Salary: $99,141
The Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) provides an excellent environment for budget analysts. Here, professionals work on federal budget preparation and execution. Opportunities exist in key areas such as Washington, D.C., and other significant cities across the country.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $93,680
The State of Colorado offers rewarding career paths for budget analysts. These roles focus on managing state budgets and ensuring financial efficiency. Job opportunities are available in various locations, including Denver and other major cities within the state.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $92,376
Northrop Grumman provides a dynamic setting for budget analysts. These professionals contribute to budget planning for large-scale projects. Positions are available in major locations such as Falls Church, Virginia, and other key sites across the United States.
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New York City Department of Transportation
Average Salary: $89,309
The New York City Department of Transportation offers exciting opportunities for budget analysts. These roles involve financial oversight and budget management for public transit systems. Positions are available in New York City and surrounding areas.
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State of Washington
Average Salary: $88,919
The State of Washington provides diverse opportunities for budget analysts. These roles focus on state budget management and financial planning. Opportunities exist in key locations such as Olympia and other major cities within the state.
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Federal Bureau of Prisons
Average Salary: $84,007
The Federal Bureau of Prisons offers valuable opportunities for budget analysts. These roles involve managing budgets for federal correctional facilities. Positions are available in various locations across the United States.
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Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Average Salary: $82,796
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides significant opportunities for budget analysts. These roles focus on managing budgets for health and human services. Opportunities are available in key locations such as Austin and other major cities within the state.
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State of Louisiana
Average Salary: $81,146
The State of Louisiana offers rewarding career paths for budget analysts. These roles involve managing state budgets and financial planning. Positions are available in various locations, including Baton Rouge and other major cities within the state.
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Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
Average Salary: $80,639
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts provides excellent opportunities for budget analysts. These roles focus on budget preparation and financial oversight. Positions are available in key locations such as Austin and other major cities within the state.
How to earn more as a Budget Analyst?
A Budget Analyst can increase their earning potential by focusing on key areas that demonstrate their value and expertise. Gaining experience and education are fundamental. A Bachelor’s degree in a related field like finance, accounting, or business administration often serves as a baseline. Adding certifications such as Certified Budget Professional (CBP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) can enhance credibility and salary expectations.
Professionals should also focus on developing skills that are in demand. Skills in data analysis and financial software can set a Budget Analyst apart. Familiarity with tools like Excel, QuickBooks, or specialized budget software shows a technical proficiency that many employers value. Networking with industry professionals can lead to better job opportunities and salary negotiations. Attending industry conferences, joining professional associations, and connecting on platforms like LinkedIn can expand one’s professional circle and open doors to higher-paying roles.
Here are some steps to increase earnings as a Budget Analyst:
- Get a relevant degree and certifications.
- Develop key technical skills.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Consider pursuing a master’s degree for higher positions.
- Stay updated with industry trends and technologies.



