Ask ten finance controllers what they earn, and you’ll probably get ten different answers. That’s because the role of a finance controller isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Some focus purely on financial reporting and oversight. Others step into high-level decision-making and help shape company strategy.
And depending on the industry, company size, and expectations tied to the title, the paycheck can look dramatically different.
So when you’re asking how much do finance controllers actually make, you’re not just asking for a salary number.
You’re asking how much a business is willing to pay for someone who balances cost control, compliance, leadership, and foresight.
The answer depends on what kind of value you bring—and how well that value is recognized by leadership.
What Finance Controllers Actually Do—and Why It Impacts Pay
The finance controller is often considered the company’s financial backbone. They oversee accounting operations, manage budgets, review reports, and make sure systems are running cleanly.
But the full scope of the job can vary a lot depending on the company.
In smaller businesses, controllers often wear multiple hats. That might mean handling payroll, vendor relationships, and even HR-related reporting.
In mid-sized or enterprise-level firms, controllers tend to lead accounting departments, work directly with CFOs, and manage compliance and audits across departments. The more strategic your role, the more your salary reflects that level of responsibility.
So, How Much Do Finance Controllers Actually Make?
The average salary for a finance controller in the U.S. ranges from $85,000 to $130,000 per year. But those numbers shift based on role, location, and industry.
Here’s a quick breakdown of where most finance controller salaries fall:
- At small private companies, you can expect $80,000 to $95,000, especially if you’re handling both day-to-day accounting and some financial reporting.
- In mid-sized firms, where you might lead a team and manage forecasting or ERP platforms, salaries often fall in the $100,000 to $115,000 range.
- Controllers in large corporations or private equity-backed firms, especially those overseeing multiple departments, can reach $120,000 to $140,000 or more.
If you’re asking how much finance controller roles pay and you’re on the lower end of that range, it’s worth reviewing what tasks you’re taking on.
If you’re doing more than just monthly closes and reconciliations, your compensation should reflect that.
Why Industry and Company Size Matter
The industry you work in can significantly change how much you earn.
For example, finance controllers in manufacturing, logistics, or healthcare often earn higher salaries than those in education, nonprofits, or early-stage startups.
That’s because these sectors require more complex financial oversight, including regulatory compliance, inventory accounting, and risk management.
Company size also plays a major role. In businesses with fewer than 50 employees, controllers often work solo or with a small team.
The work is broad but not always deep, which can keep salaries on the modest side. At larger companies, you’re often expected to manage a team, run multi-level reporting, and work closely with leadership.
That added scope—and pressure—typically comes with higher pay.ourself.
Location Still Makes a Difference
In high-demand areas like Rochester, Buffalo, and other parts of New York, finance controllers can expect to earn between $95,000 and $125,000, depending on their industry and team size.
Companies in these regions often deal with multi-state operations or complex supply chains, which increases the demand for experienced finance leadership.
In Las Vegas and other growing cities in Nevada, salaries typically range from $90,000 to $115,000.
The cost of living is slightly lower, but the need for seasoned finance talent—especially in logistics, real estate, and service-based industries—is growing.
Many businesses in these regions offer performance bonuses or equity options to help close the salary gap with higher-cost areas.
If you’re wondering how much finance controller roles pay where you live, these local factors matter as much as the job description.
What Employers Pay More For
TNot every controller role is compensated equally, even within the same city or industry. What makes the difference? It’s not just years of experience; it’s the value you add beyond the basics.
Employers are willing to pay more for finance professionals who bring more than accounting knowledge. For example, candidates with ERP system experience—like SAP, NetSuite, or QuickBooks Enterprise—often earn more, especially if they’ve led implementations or system upgrades.
Strong team leadership is another differentiator. Controllers who manage accounting teams, train staff, and support cross-functional collaboration tend to be seen as operational leaders, not just financial managers.
That makes them more valuable.
Additional pay drivers include:
- Audit readiness and compliance oversight, especially in regulated industries
- Process improvement initiatives, like streamlining month-end closes or automating reporting
- A clear track record of cost savings or improved budget performance
These are not optional skills in 2025; they’re expected at the upper end of the salary range.
When and How to Negotiate Smarter
Negotiating salary as a finance controller isn’t just about market averages. It’s about how your experience connects to business outcomes.
If your responsibilities include leading forecasting, managing cash flow, or advising on cost strategies, you’re doing more than routine accounting. That gives you leverage.
When entering a new role, ask about how success is measured.
Can you tie part of your compensation to performance? That might include setting metrics around budgeting accuracy, system upgrades, or departmental efficiency.
If you’re joining a smaller firm, you can also ask about profit-sharing or long-term equity. Just make sure you understand the vesting terms and what kind of exit scenario would make those shares meaningful.
If you’re already in the role and feeling underpaid, document your impact. Have you implemented a new reporting process?
Improved close time by 20%? Found cost savings that increased margins? These are real, measurable wins—and they’re what your employer needs to see when you request a raise.
Even if a raise isn’t possible right away, bringing data to the table keeps the conversation professional and goal-focused.
It also sets the stage for future negotiations tied to performance benchmarks.
Are You Being Underpaid Without Realizing It?
It happens more often than people admit. Controllers sometimes take on wide-ranging responsibilities over time without a title or salary adjustment.
If you’re leading a team, supporting audits, and advising executives—but still making under $100,000, you may be due for a compensation review.
Another clue is when your job title doesn’t reflect the scope of your role. If you’re doing Director-level work under a Controller title, it’s worth discussing with leadership.
This is especially true if you’re making decisions that affect hiring, expansion, or pricing models.
Regional benchmarks also matter. In Medina, NY, a controller in manufacturing or logistics typically earns $100,000–$115,000, with room to grow if they’re leading multiple financial functions.
In Las Vegas, NV, someone managing operations and budget forecasting can make $110,000–$125,000, especially with ERP and compliance experience.
If your numbers don’t line up—and your work does—it may be time to renegotiate or explore other opportunities.
Think Like a Controller, Earn Like a Strategist
The question how much do finance controllers make isn’t about a fixed salary band. It’s about the role you’ve carved out and the value you bring.
Controllers who focus only on compliance may see their pay stay flat. But those who actively contribute to business decisions, improve systems, and lead teams often see salaries grow—fast.
Finance is no longer just about reporting. It’s about analysis, forecasting, and accountability. If you’re already doing that work, your compensation should reflect it.
TBest Services connects finance professionals in New York and Nevada with companies who know the difference between routine and real leadership.
If you’re in a controller role and ready for a better match—or better pay—we can help you get there.
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