Business · Salary Guide · Los Angeles
Financial Analyst Salary in Los Angeles
LA's tech market is concentrated around three sub-sectors: entertainment-tech (Snap, Disney, Netflix), aerospace/defense (SpaceX, Northrop, Lockheed), and a spread of Big Tech satellite offices. Base salaries typically land 10–15% below SF with equivalent California tax burden, so total compensation is meaningfully lower than SF for the same role. The culture trade-off is real: LA offers lifestyle and weather advantages the Bay Area doesn't. Cost of living is 50% above the national average — lower than SF and NYC but higher than most US markets. 1BR averages $2,800/month.
Median base in Los Angeles
$132k
Cost of living index
150
US = 100
Market multiplier
1.15x
vs US national
Salary by experience level in Los Angeles
| Experience level | Base salary (US national) |
|---|---|
| Entry (0–2 yrs) | $86k – $127k |
| Mid (3–5 yrs) | $115k – $178k |
| Senior (6–9 yrs) | $161k – $247k |
| Staff / Principal (10+ yrs) | $230k – $351k |
Adjusted from national ranges using the Los Angeles market multiplier (1.15x).
Tax and take-home considerations
California state income tax up to 13.3%. COL slightly lower than SF but still high.
Dominant employers in Los Angeles
Strong media/entertainment tech market. Base salaries below SF but above most US markets.
FAQ
What is the average financial analyst salary in Los Angeles?
The median base salary for a financial analyst in Los Angeles is approximately $132k in 2026. LA's tech market is concentrated around three sub-sectors: entertainment-tech (Snap, Disney, Netflix), aerospace/defense (SpaceX, Northrop, Lockheed), and a spread of Big Tech satellite offices.
Does Los Angeles have state income tax for financial analysts?
California state income tax up to 13.3%. COL slightly lower than SF but still high.
Which companies hire the most financial analysts in Los Angeles?
The dominant employers in Los Angeles are Google LA, Snap, Disney Streaming, Netflix, SpaceX. Strong media/entertainment tech market. Base salaries below SF but above most US markets.
What is the average financial analyst salary in the US?
As of 2026, the median US financial analyst total compensation is about $115,000, with mid-level analysts typically earning $100k–$155k. Senior financial analysts at tech companies reach $165k–$215k in base, with total comp often exceeding $250k once equity is included.
Does CFA or CPA certification affect financial analyst salary?
Yes. CFA charterholders earn roughly 10–20% more than non-certified peers at the same level, particularly in investment management and corporate development. CPAs command a similar premium in FP&A and accounting-heavy roles. Level I CFA candidates see a smaller but measurable bump.
Related Financial Analyst Resources
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