How much does a Controller make?
A Controller is a senior role in financial management. They ensure that a company’s finances are in order. This role requires a strong background in accounting and finance. People in this position often earn a good salary because of their important work. The average yearly salary for a Controller is around $114,000. This amount can change based on factors like experience, location, and the size of the company.
The salary for Controllers can vary widely. Some may start at around $42,000 a year, while others can earn over $200,000. Here are some typical salaries at different points in a Controller’s career:
- 10th percentile: $41,596
- 25th percentile: $56,224
- 50th percentile: $100,107
- 75th percentile: $143,990
- 90th percentile: $173,245
What are the highest paying cities for a Controller?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $149,892
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for finance professionals. Companies like tech giants and startups alike need skilled individuals to manage their finances. Working here means staying on top of trends and technology in the finance sector.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $149,698
San Jose is a key player in the tech world, which means a demand for finance experts. Silicon Valley firms need strong financial oversight. This city provides many opportunities for growth in the tech-driven finance world.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $144,929
In Reno, a Controller plays a crucial role in the local business landscape. The city’s diverse industries, from tourism to tech, benefit from effective financial management. Working here offers a mix of challenges and opportunities to grow your career.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $141,083
Los Angeles is home to a bustling economy with many opportunities for finance professionals. Major firms in entertainment and tech seek strong financial oversight. This vibrant city offers a dynamic environment for career advancement.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $136,506
Boston is rich with history and opportunity for finance professionals. The city is a hub for education and healthcare, where skilled financial managers are in demand. Working here means joining a prestigious community of professionals.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $135,662
Bakersfield provides a strong base for finance careers with its growing economy. The city’s blend of agriculture and industry offers unique financial challenges. Working here means contributing to the economic growth of a diverse region.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $135,387
New Haven is a city with a mix of education, healthcare, and industry sectors. Controllers here manage the financial health of prominent institutions. The city offers a supportive environment for professional growth and development.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $134,965
Modesto is a growing city with many opportunities for finance professionals. The local economy benefits from effective financial oversight. Working here provides a chance to be part of a growing community and its economic development.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $131,481
Santa Rosa offers a balanced environment for finance professionals with its mix of agriculture and tech. The city needs skilled financial managers to support its growth. Working here means being part of a community focused on quality and innovation.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $131,399
Sacramento, the state capital, offers a unique blend of government and private sector opportunities. Controllers here manage finances for key institutions. Working in this political hub provides a chance to influence policy and finance.
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What are the best companies a Controller can work for?

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Grassi & Co., CPA's P.C
Average Salary: $187,955
Grassi & Co. offers exciting opportunities for Controllers. They help businesses manage finances and ensure compliance. Their offices are located across the United States, including major cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
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Daley And Associates, LLC
Average Salary: $183,289
Daley And Associates values its Controllers. They handle budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting. They have offices in major cities such as Boston, San Francisco, and Miami.
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Ledgent Finance & Accounting
Average Salary: $167,857
Ledgent Finance & Accounting has many openings for Controllers. They focus on financial planning and analysis. Their locations include Dallas, Atlanta, and Seattle.
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ghj
Average Salary: $166,180
ghj provides great opportunities for Controllers. They work on financial reporting and compliance. They have offices in several cities, including Denver, Minneapolis, and Charlotte.
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LeoForce
Average Salary: $165,070
LeoForce needs experienced Controllers. They are responsible for managing financial operations. They operate in cities such as Houston, Phoenix, and Philadelphia.
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Gilbane
Average Salary: $164,433
Gilbane offers competitive salaries for Controllers. They work on financial planning and budgeting. Their offices are located in San Diego, Portland, and Austin.
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Thomas Edwards Group
Average Salary: $161,786
Thomas Edwards Group is looking for skilled Controllers. They focus on accounting and financial analysis. They have locations in major cities like Detroit, St. Louis, and Columbus.
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Cherry Bekaert
Average Salary: $158,333
Cherry Bekaert has many Controller positions. They help with financial reporting and audits. They are present in cities such as Tampa, Baltimore, and Indianapolis.
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Precision CastParts
Average Salary: $155,817
Precision CastParts offers good salaries for Controllers. They manage financial operations and reporting. They operate in cities like Cleveland, Salt Lake City, and Nashville.
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HCA Healthcare
Average Salary: $154,315
HCA Healthcare provides opportunities for Controllers. They focus on budgeting and financial planning. They have locations in many cities, including Nashville, San Antonio, and Jacksonville.
How to earn more as a Controller?
To increase earnings as a Controller, one should focus on enhancing professional skills and experience. Gaining advanced certifications can lead to higher job opportunities and pay rates. Additionally, working with advanced software and financial systems often results in increased responsibilities and better compensation. Networking within the industry also opens doors to new roles with higher salaries.
Expanding knowledge in areas like data analytics, compliance, and strategic planning can provide a competitive edge. This knowledge allows a Controller to add more value to the company, leading to higher earnings. Moreover, seeking roles in industries with strong financial growth or in larger companies often means better pay. Controllers who demonstrate strong leadership skills may also earn more by taking on additional responsibilities or moving into senior roles.
Factors influencing higher earnings for a Controller include:
- Obtaining advanced certifications such as CPA or CISA.
- Gaining proficiency in financial software and systems.
- Building a strong professional network in the industry.
- Expanding knowledge in data analytics and strategic planning.
- Seeking roles in growing industries or larger companies.



