Financial Analyst in Burlington, VT

The Salary Picture: Where Burlington Stands

As a local who’s watched the Burlington job market shift over the past decade, I can tell you this: the numbers for Financial Analysts here are surprisingly robust, especially when you factor in the local cost of living. The median salary for a Financial Analyst in the Burlington metro area is $99,010/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $47.6/hour. This is a critical starting point because it matches the national average exactly, but the value of that dollar stretches much further here than in places like Boston or New York.

What does this mean in practice? Burlington's job market for analysts is niche but stable, with approximately 89 active jobs in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth sits at a modest but steady 9%, indicating a stable, if not explosive, demand. This growth is largely tied to the region's unique economic drivers—higher education, healthcare, and a surprising amount of fintech and insurance back-office operations.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect based on your experience level. This data is synthesized from local job postings, BLS regional data, and conversations with hiring managers in the area.

Experience Level	Typical Years	Annual Salary Range (Burlington)
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$70,000 - $85,000
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$90,000 - $115,000
Senior Analyst	8-15 years	$115,000 - $135,000
Expert/Manager	15+ years	$135,000 - $160,000+

When comparing to other Vermont cities, Burlington is the undisputed economic engine. A Financial Analyst in Rutland might see salaries 10-15% lower, closer to the $85,000 median, with far fewer opportunities. Montpelier, the state capital, has roles in government and policy analysis, but salaries can be compressed by public sector pay scales. The key advantage in Burlington is the density of employers and the spillover from the tech and medical sectors, which often pay premiums for analysts with specific skill sets in data modeling or healthcare finance.

Insider Tip: Don't anchor your salary expectations solely on the median. If you have niche skills—like CFA certification, expertise in SQL/Python for financial modeling, or experience in higher education finance—you can command a salary in the top 25% of the range, even with mid-level experience. Local firms know they're competing with remote work opportunities, and they price accordingly.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The $99,010 median salary is a great headline, but the real question is what your bank account looks like after Vermont’s cost of living. Let's break down a realistic monthly budget for a single Financial Analyst earning the median salary.

First, the taxes. Vermont has a progressive income tax system. On a $99,010 salary, you can expect:

• Federal Taxes (Single Filer, Standard Deduction): Approximately 22-24% effective rate.
• Vermont State Taxes: Approximately 3.35% effective rate (for this income level).
• FICA (7.65%): Standard for all employees.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home Pay (after taxes & FICA): ~$5,600 - $5,800

Now, let's layer on the major expense: housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Burlington is $1,441/month. This is for a standard market-rate unit in a decent neighborhood. If you're willing to have a roommate in a 2-bedroom, you can get that down to $900-$1,100/month.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (Monthly)	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,441	Average for the city
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Internet)	$200 - $250	Higher in winter due to heating
Groceries	$400 - $500	Competitive with national averages
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	Insurance is high in VT
Gas/Transport	$150 - $200	Less if you work remotely
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$300 - $400	Varies by employer
Entertainment/Dining Out	$400 - $500	A big part of Burlington's culture
Savings/Retirement (10%)	$825	Critical for long-term growth
Miscellaneous	$300	Buffer for everything else
TOTAL	~$4,416 - $4,816	Leaves a healthy buffer of $800-$1,200

Can you afford to buy a home? Yes, but it's a strategic decision. The median home price in Chittenden County (Burlington's county) is around $450,000. On a $99,010 salary, with a 20% down payment ($90,000), your monthly mortgage payment (including taxes, insurance, and PMI) would likely be between $2,800 and $3,200. This is manageable but would consume over 50% of your take-home pay unless you have a dual income. Most local analysts in their 30s either buy with a partner or look to more affordable towns just outside the city, like Essex Junction or South Burlington, where prices can be 10-15% lower.

Insider Tip: Many local employers offer a 403(b) or 401(k) with a competitive match (often 4-6%). Prioritize this, especially if you're new to the state. The tax-advantaged savings will help you build a down payment faster than a traditional savings account, given Vermont's high property taxes.

Where the Jobs Are: Burlington's Major Employers

Burlington's job market for Financial Analysts is anchored by a few key sectors. You won't find the Wall Street firms, but you will find stable, well-paying roles with excellent work-life balance. Here are the major local employers and their hiring trends:

1. University of Vermont (UVM) and UVM Health Network: This is the largest employer in the state. UVM itself needs analysts for budgeting, grant management, and endowment oversight. The UVM Health Network (which includes the University of Vermont Medical Center) is a massive, growing system that constantly needs financial analysts for hospital finance, revenue cycle, and strategic planning. Hiring Trend: Steady and consistent. They value local candidates with healthcare finance knowledge.

2. Dealer.com (Cox Automotive): While not a traditional finance firm, Dealer.com is a major tech employer with a significant finance and operations team. They need analysts for business intelligence, pricing models, and financial planning & analysis (FP&A). Hiring Trend: Selective but active. They look for analysts who are tech-savvy and can work with large datasets.

3. State of Vermont (Department of Finance & Management): Based in Montpelier but with a significant presence in Burlington, the state government offers roles in budget analysis, economic forecasting, and pension fund management. Hiring Trend: Slower, cyclical hiring tied to the state budget cycle. Excellent for those seeking job security and a pension.

4. National Life Group: This insurance and financial services company is headquartered in Montpelier with a large Burlington-area workforce. They hire analysts for actuarial support, investment analysis, and corporate finance. Hiring Trend: Consistent, with a focus on candidates with insurance or actuarial backgrounds.

5. KPMG (Burlington Office): One of the Big Four with a local presence, primarily serving audit and tax clients in the region. Their Burlington office is smaller but hires financial analysts for consulting and assurance services. Hiring Trend: Tied to the broader economic health of local businesses. A good option for those seeking public accounting experience in a smaller-market setting.

6. Gamma Real Estate: A major local real estate development and management firm. They need analysts for property valuation, development pro formas, and portfolio performance. Hiring Trend: Growing, as the Burlington real estate market remains active despite high interest rates.

7. Burlington International Airport (BIA) Authority: A public authority that manages the airport. They have a finance department that handles capital project financing, bond issuance, and operational budgeting. Hiring Trend: Niche but stable, with openings appearing every few years.

Insider Tip: The "hidden" job market here is strong. Many of these organizations post jobs on their own websites before (or instead of) using LinkedIn or Indeed. Always check the "Careers" page of any employer you're interested in. Networking through the Vermont Financial Professionals group on LinkedIn is also highly effective.

Getting Licensed in Vermont

For most corporate Financial Analyst roles, you do not need a state-specific license to practice. The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certifications are nationally recognized and highly valued by local employers, particularly in asset management and corporate finance.

However, if you plan to move into a role that involves selling securities, financial planning, or insurance, you will need specific licenses regulated by the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation (DFR).

• Series 7 (General Securities Representative): Required for those selling stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Administered by FINRA, but you must be sponsored by a Vermont-registered firm.
• Series 66 (Uniform Combined State Law Exam): Often paired with the Series 7, this qualifies you to provide investment advice and is recognized by Vermont.
• Vermont Insurance Producer License: If you sell life, health, or property & casualty insurance. You'll need to complete a pre-licensing course (cost: $100-$200) and pass the state exam (cost: $60). The application fee is $100.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. For CFA/CPA: If you're starting from scratch, plan for 3-4 years of study and exams while working. The CFA exam fees alone are over $3,000 total.
2. For Securities Licenses (Series 7/66): With a sponsoring employer, you can typically prepare and sit for the exams within 3-6 months. Study materials can cost $500-$1,500.
3. For Insurance License: From start to finish, you can be licensed in 4-8 weeks. The total cost is under $400.

Insider Tip: The University of Vermont's Continuing Education department often offers prep courses for the CFA and CPA exams. It's a great way to network with other local professionals while studying.

Best Neighborhoods for Financial Analysts

Choosing where to live in Burlington is as important as choosing your job. Commutes are short, but lifestyle varies dramatically.

1. Downtown/South End: This is the core. Walk to work if you're at UVM, Dealer.com, or a downtown firm. The vibe is urban, with endless restaurants, bars, and arts venues. Rent is highest here ($1,600+ for a 1BR). Best for young professionals who want to be in the middle of the action.
2. Old North End: Just north of downtown, this area is more residential and affordable. It has a mix of students, young families, and long-time residents. You can find charming older apartments and houses. Rent is more reasonable ($1,300-$1,500 for a 1BR). A 5-10 minute drive or bus ride to downtown.
3. South Burlington: Adjacent to the airport and major retail corridors (like Taft Corners). This is where many professionals in the suburbs choose to live. Great for commuters to the airport authority, Dealer.com's satellite offices, or the UVM Medical Center's off-campus facilities. More car-dependent, with newer apartment complexes. Rent is similar to the city average ($1,400-$1,600).
4. Essex Junction/Essex: A separate town about 10-15 minutes east of downtown. It has its own charming village center, great schools, and more single-family homes. Many financial professionals live here for the space and community feel. Rent is slightly lower ($1,300-$1,500), and home prices are more accessible.
5. Winooski: Technically its own city, but it's a 5-minute drive from downtown Burlington. It has a revitalized mill district with lofts, breweries, and a younger, energetic vibe. Rent is competitive ($1,300-$1,500), and the commute is negligible.

Insider Tip: If you're moving in the summer (June-August), the rental market is incredibly tight. Start your search in April/May. Consider a short-term sublet for the first 1-2 months to get the lay of the land before committing to a year-long lease.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Burlington, career growth for Financial Analysts is less about vertical ladders and more about developing specializations that are in demand locally.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest salary premiums are for analysts who can bridge finance and data. Data analysts with SQL/Python skills can earn 10-15% more than traditional financial analysts. Healthcare finance specialists (understanding DRGs, value-based care) are in high demand at the UVM Health Network. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) analysis is a growing niche, supported by Vermont's green ethos and local firms like National Life Group.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Analyst to Sr. Analyst to Finance Manager. In Burlington, you might also move into a Controller role at a smaller company or a Program Manager role at a university. Some analysts leverage their experience to move into consulting for local firms or even start their own advisory practice serving the small business community.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 9% job growth rate, the market is expected to remain stable. The biggest growth will likely be in healthcare finance and tech-adjacent roles. Remote work is a double-edged sword: it offers more opportunities but also means competing with analysts in lower-cost states. Your best bet for long-term growth is to build a deep network in Vermont's tight-knit business community and become a go-to expert in a local niche.

Insider Tip: Consider taking on a role at a smaller company or a non-profit early in your career. The experience is broader, and you'll gain skills that are highly valued by larger employers. Many local leaders started their careers at places like the Vermont Community Foundation or a local manufacturing firm before moving to bigger roles.

The Verdict: Is Burlington Right for You?

Burlington offers a unique proposition: a national-average salary with a below-national-average cost of living (the Cost of Living Index is 100.0, right at the US average, but the quality of life per dollar is far higher). It's a market for analysts who prioritize lifestyle, stability, and community over the highest possible paycheck.

Pros	Cons
Strong purchasing power: $99,010 goes much further here than in major metros.	Limited high-end opportunities: No Wall Street, no massive bonuses.
Excellent work-life balance: 40-hour weeks are the norm, not the exception.	Competitive housing market: High demand for limited rental stock.
Outdoor access unparalleled: Lake Champlain, mountains, and trails are minutes away.	Winters are long and dark: From November to April, daylight and warmth are scarce.
Tight-knit professional network: Easy to meet decision-makers at local events.	Remote work competition: You're now competing with analysts in any state.
Stable, growing employer base: Healthcare and education are recession-resistant.	State taxes are high: Vermont's income and property taxes are among the nation's highest.

Final Recommendation: Burlington is an ideal choice for a Financial Analyst who values community, outdoor recreation, and a balanced lifestyle. It's perfect for mid-career professionals looking to slow down without sacrificing career quality, or for early-career analysts who want to make a tangible impact in a smaller, more visible role. If your primary goal is to maximize your salary above all else, you may find more lucrative opportunities in larger metropolitan areas. But if you want a career that supports a life well-lived, Burlington is a compelling destination.

FAQs

1. Can I commute to Burlington from outside the metro area?
Yes, but it's not always practical. The most common commute is from the Champlain Islands (via the causeway) or from the Mad River Valley (Warren, Waitsfield). These commutes are scenic but can be challenging in winter. A 30-minute commute is the practical limit before the lifestyle benefit diminishes.

2. How important is a CFA or CPA in the Burlington market?
It's highly valuable but not always mandatory. For roles at university endowments, state pension funds, or at the KPMG office, a CFA/CPA is a significant advantage. For many corporate FP&A roles, relevant experience and strong technical skills (Excel, modeling) can be just as important. It's a strong differentiator, not a gatekeeper.

3. What is the interview process like for local firms?
Expect a more personal process. Interviews often involve coffee meetings or a tour