How much does a Underwriter make?
Underwriters evaluate risks for insurance companies, deciding if they should insure someone or something. They look at the chances of a loss happening. They assess how much money to charge and what terms to offer. This job pays well because it needs special skills and knowledge.
Most underwriters earn between $40,000 and $161,000 a year. The average yearly salary is $91,253. Those just starting might earn around $40,000. Experienced underwriters can earn over $160,000. Many factors can affect salary, like experience, education, and the company.
What are the highest paying cities for a Underwriter?

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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $149,899
In Stamford, CT, professionals in risk evaluation earn competitive salaries. Companies like Travelers and The Hartford offer opportunities. These firms value knowledgeable and detail-oriented individuals.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $120,211
San Francisco, CA, offers a dynamic environment for those assessing risk. Major companies such as Berkshire Hathaway and Zurich North America provide exciting roles. These positions require strong analytical skills and industry knowledge.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $118,022
In Boston, MA, risk evaluation roles can lead to fulfilling careers. Companies like MassMutual and Liberty Mutual seek skilled professionals. These firms value experience and a solid understanding of the market.
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Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $116,347
Wichita, KS, provides a stable environment for evaluating risks. Key employers like Hartford and Allied Insurance look for detail-oriented individuals. These companies offer good benefits and career growth opportunities.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $113,708
Chicago, IL, is a hub for risk evaluation jobs. Companies like Allstate and Aon offer diverse roles. These firms value professionals who can navigate complex data and market trends.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $112,284
In Washington, DC, professionals in risk evaluation find many opportunities. Major firms such as UnitedHealth Group and Metlife seek skilled candidates. These companies offer competitive salaries and benefits.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $111,863
Atlanta, GA, offers a growing market for risk evaluation professionals. Companies like Principal Financial Group and SunTrust Bank look for experienced candidates. These firms provide a supportive work environment.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $111,554
Philadelphia, PA, provides a rich landscape for risk evaluation careers. Employers like Lincoln Financial Group and Independence Blue Cross offer rewarding positions. These companies value experienced and knowledgeable professionals.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $110,369
In Charlotte, NC, risk evaluation roles are in demand. Companies such as Bank of America and MetLife offer promising opportunities. These firms seek professionals who can handle large amounts of data and provide strategic insights.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $109,921
Cincinnati, OH, offers a strong market for risk evaluation professionals. Employers like Nationwide and P&G look for detail-oriented candidates. These companies provide good benefits and growth opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Underwriter can work for?

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SCOR
Average Salary: $235,543
SCOR offers rewarding opportunities for Underwriters in Paris, New York, and London. They focus on developing strategies to manage risk for clients. The job involves assessing risks and setting terms for insurance contracts.
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GEICO
Average Salary: $225,000
GEICO provides high-paying roles for Underwriters in various locations across the U.S., including McLean, Virginia. Underwriters at GEICO work on evaluating risks and determining insurance coverage terms for various clients.
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General Placement Service
Average Salary: $169,293
General Placement Service offers competitive salaries for Underwriters in Salt Lake City, Utah. They provide insurance and risk management solutions. The role involves analyzing risks and preparing insurance policies.
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Swiss Re
Average Salary: $157,241
Swiss Re offers Underwriter positions in Zurich and London. They specialize in reinsurance, insurance, and other forms of risk transfer. The job includes evaluating risks and creating insurance terms for clients.
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HDI Global Insurance Company
Average Salary: $151,979
HDI Global Insurance Company provides Underwriter opportunities in Hannover, Germany. They focus on providing insurance and risk management solutions. The role involves assessing risks and preparing insurance policies.
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Citi
Average Salary: $151,321
Citi offers Underwriter roles in New York City and other locations. They provide a range of financial services, including insurance. The job involves evaluating risks and setting insurance terms.
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Fannie Mae
Average Salary: $147,613
Fannie Mae provides Underwriter positions in Washington, D.C. They focus on mortgage-related insurance. The role involves assessing mortgage risks and setting terms for insurance policies.
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Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance
Average Salary: $146,711
Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance offers Underwriter jobs in Omaha, Nebraska. They provide specialized insurance solutions. The role includes evaluating risks and preparing insurance policies.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $144,283
Wells Fargo offers Underwriter positions in Charlotte, North Carolina. They provide various financial services, including insurance. The job involves assessing risks and setting insurance terms.
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QBE
Average Salary: $140,278
QBE provides Underwriter roles in Sydney, Australia. They offer insurance and risk management solutions. The role involves evaluating risks and creating insurance policies.
How to earn more as a Underwriter?
Aspiring underwriters can enhance their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Building a strong foundation in the industry can lead to greater opportunities and higher compensation. Understanding the market and staying informed about trends can give underwriters a competitive edge.
Gaining experience is crucial. The more years in the field and the more cases handled, the more skilled an underwriter becomes. Specialization in a particular type of insurance, such as life or property, can also increase earning potential. Continuous learning through certifications and courses can lead to higher positions with greater salaries.
Networking within the industry opens doors to new opportunities and insights. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can lead to job offers and salary negotiations. Maintaining a professional demeanor and building a positive reputation can also lead to bonuses and promotions.
- Gain Experience: The more years and cases you handle, the more skilled you become.
- Specialize: Focus on a specific type of insurance to become an expert.
- Continuous Learning: Pursue certifications and courses to advance your skills.
- Network: Connect with peers and attend industry events to open new opportunities.
- Professional Reputation: Build a positive image to gain trust and opportunities.



