How much does a Controller make?
A Controller plays a key role in managing a company's finances. They oversee accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting. This important job often comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Controller is around $116,048. This means many Controllers earn a solid income.
The salary for a Controller can vary based on experience and location. Some Controllers earn less, while others earn more. Here are the salary ranges for different percentiles:
- 10th percentile: $60,000
- 25th percentile: $72,045
- 50th percentile: $96,136
- 75th percentile: $120,227
- 90th percentile: $156,364
What are the highest paying cities for a Controller?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $148,494
In San Jose, a financial expert can find rewarding roles in tech giants like Intel and Cisco. The city offers a dynamic environment with a strong focus on innovation and growth.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $143,572
San Francisco is home to many financial firms, including Wells Fargo and Goldman Sachs. Working here means being part of a vibrant financial hub with numerous opportunities for career advancement.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $142,153
Salinas offers a more relaxed pace while still providing opportunities in agriculture and food processing companies. It's a great place for those who value a balanced lifestyle.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $141,307
Bakersfield has a strong presence of oil and gas companies, offering specialized roles in finance. The city provides a stable job market with a focus on energy sector growth.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $137,876
Modesto is a growing city with a mix of industries, including agriculture and healthcare. It offers a supportive community and a chance to work in a variety of sectors.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $137,775
Los Angeles boasts a diverse job market with opportunities in entertainment, technology, and finance. Working here means being part of a bustling metropolis with endless possibilities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $131,786
Sacramento offers a mix of government and private sector jobs. It's a great place for those interested in public service and finance, with a growing job market.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $131,562
Boston is a historic city with a strong financial sector. Companies like Fidelity and State Street offer exciting roles. It's a place where tradition meets innovation.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $130,968
Riverside provides a mix of industries, including education and healthcare. It offers a family-friendly environment with a growing job market.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $129,684
Santa Rosa is known for its vibrant wine industry and growing tech sector. It offers a mix of traditional and modern job opportunities in a beautiful setting.
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What are the best companies a Controller can work for?

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Alliant Insurance Services
Average Salary: $192,500
Alliant Insurance Services offers Controller jobs with a focus on financial management. They operate in multiple locations across the United States, providing a dynamic work environment.
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ghj
Average Salary: $165,798
ghj provides Controller positions that emphasize strategic financial planning and analysis. They serve clients across various industries, offering a broad range of opportunities.
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American Medical Associates
Average Salary: $161,364
American Medical Associates offers Controller roles that focus on healthcare financial management. They operate in several states, providing a stable and rewarding career path.
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Grassi & Co., CPA's P.C
Average Salary: $160,781
Grassi & Co., CPA's P.C. offers Controller jobs that focus on audit and accounting services. They serve clients in multiple locations, providing a comprehensive financial oversight role.
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HCA Healthcare
Average Salary: $160,430
HCA Healthcare provides Controller positions that focus on managing financial operations in healthcare facilities. They operate in many states, offering a stable and impactful career.
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Daley And Associates, LLC
Average Salary: $160,238
Daley And Associates, LLC offers Controller roles that focus on financial management and consulting. They serve clients in various locations, providing a dynamic and rewarding work environment.
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Precision CastParts
Average Salary: $158,745
Precision CastParts offers Controller jobs that focus on manufacturing financial management. They operate in multiple locations, providing a stable and impactful career.
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PKF O'Connor Davies
Average Salary: $157,292
PKF O'Connor Davies provides Controller positions that emphasize audit and accounting services. They serve clients in various locations, offering a comprehensive financial management role.
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Synergy Staffing Services
Average Salary: $154,773
Synergy Staffing Services offers Controller roles that focus on financial management and staffing solutions. They operate in multiple locations, providing a dynamic and rewarding career path.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $152,352
Vaco provides Controller positions that focus on financial management and staffing. They operate in various locations, offering a stable and impactful career.
How to earn more as a Controller?
A Controller plays a key role in managing a company's finances. This position requires a mix of skills and experience. Those who excel can earn more by focusing on certain areas. Understanding these factors can help increase earning potential.
First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Controllers with more years in the field often command higher salaries. Second, obtaining advanced certifications can boost earnings. Certifications like CPA or CMA can make a Controller more valuable. Third, specializing in a particular industry can make a Controller more attractive to employers. Industries like tech or finance often pay more. Fourth, taking on additional responsibilities can lead to higher pay. This might include managing larger budgets or more complex financial tasks. Finally, seeking out leadership roles can increase earning potential. Controllers who move into managerial positions often see a significant pay increase.
By focusing on these areas, a Controller can improve their earning potential. Each step can lead to better opportunities and higher pay.
- Gain more experience
- Obtain advanced certifications
- Specialize in a particular industry
- Take on additional responsibilities
- Seek out leadership roles