Equity Research Salary Overview

Salaries in Equity Research are influenced by experience, educational qualifications, geographic location, and the specific financial institution. Certifications such as CFA can also impact earning potential.

National Average: $60,000 - $150,000 per year

Entry Level $60K
Mid Level $85K
Senior $110K
Specialized/Lead Role $130K
Manager/Director $150K

Experience-Based Salary Ranges

Entry Level (0-2 years)

$60,000 - $75,000

Mid Level (3-5 years)

$75,000 - $100,000

Senior Level (6-9 years)

$100,000 - $130,000

Manager/Director (10+ years)

$130,000 - $200,000+

Entry Level (0-2 years)

  • Assisting senior analysts in data collection and analysis
  • Building financial models
  • Writing reports on assigned sectors
  • Developing understanding of market trends

Mid Level (3-5 years)

  • Conducting independent research on assigned sectors
  • Presenting investment ideas to clients
  • Developing comprehensive financial models
  • Mentoring junior analysts

Senior Level (6-9 years)

  • Leading research teams
  • Providing strategic investment recommendations
  • Managing client relationships
  • Publishing influential market reports

Manager/Director (10+ years)

  • Overseeing multiple research teams
  • Setting strategic direction for research department
  • Engaging in high-level client interactions
  • Driving revenue growth through research insights

Regional Salary Variations

Geographic location significantly impacts compensation in Equity Research, with major financial hubs offering higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living.

New York City

$80,000 - $180,000

San Francisco

$85,000 - $175,000

Chicago

$70,000 - $150,000

Los Angeles

$75,000 - $160,000

Dallas

$65,000 - $140,000

Atlanta

$60,000 - $130,000

Phoenix

$60,000 - $125,000

Remote (US-based)

$60,000 - $140,000

  • Higher salaries in cities like NYC and SF are offset by higher living costs
  • Remote positions offer flexibility but may come with location-based pay adjustments
  • Cost of living varies significantly between urban and rural areas
  • Consider total compensation, including benefits and bonuses, when evaluating offers

Industry Salary Comparison

Salaries for Equity Research analysts can vary significantly across industries, with the financial services sector typically offering the highest compensation due to the competitive nature and high stakes involved.

Industry Salary Range Bonus/Equity Growth Potential
Financial Services $70,000 - $180,000 High Very Good
Technology $65,000 - $150,000 Moderate Good
Healthcare $60,000 - $140,000 Moderate Stable
Energy $60,000 - $135,000 Low Limited

Job Outlook and Career Growth

The demand for skilled Equity Research analysts is expected to remain stable, driven by the need for data-driven investment decisions and the growing complexity of financial markets.

  • Increased reliance on data analytics tools
  • Growing opportunities in emerging markets
  • Rising importance of ESG factors in investment decisions

Salary Negotiation Tips

Effective negotiation is key to securing a competitive salary in Equity Research. Preparation and strategy can significantly impact the outcome.

Preparation Strategies

  • Research Market Rates

    Understand the typical salary range for your role and experience level.

  • Assess Your Value

    Identify your unique skills and contributions to leverage during negotiations.

  • Prepare Evidence

    Gather data and examples of your achievements and impact.

  • Set a Target Salary

    Have a clear, realistic target salary in mind before negotiations.

During Negotiation

  • Communicate Clearly

    Express your expectations and justify your salary request with data.

  • Be Flexible

    Consider negotiating benefits and bonuses if salary flexibility is limited.

  • Practice Active Listening

    Understand the employer's perspective and constraints.

  • Stay Professional

    Maintain a positive and professional demeanor throughout the discussion.

  • Know When to Walk Away

    Be prepared to decline if the offer doesn't meet your minimum requirements.