8 Low-Stress Jobs in Finance that Pay Well
- Annette Harris
- Dec 10, 2022
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 9
Are you searching for a career that combines financial stability with work-life balance? As a financial coach, I often hear from people who find money management stressful. However, the right finance career not only helps you manage others' finances but can transform your own financial journey as well.
To identify truly low-stress, high-paying opportunities in finance, I consulted with industry professionals who shared their insights on positions that offer reduced client interaction, predictable schedules, and impressive compensation.
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Top 8 Low-Stress Finance Careers
Financial Consultant
Financial consultants help businesses and individuals navigate complex financial challenges. What makes this role particularly appealing is the objective position you hold—you're analyzing situations rather than being directly responsible for financial outcomes.
"Working as a financial consultant (ChFC) allows you to use your theoretical knowledge in practice by helping companies and people avoid economic issues. Most of your clients have complex financial situations, so thanks to your expertise, you can earn well. At the same time, it's a low-stress job because you play the role of an objective indicator rather than a part of the potential problem, so all you have to worry about is analyzing the client's situation well." - Natalia Brzezinska, Marketing & Outreach Manager, US Visa Photo
*Average Salary Range: $48,000 - $93,000
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts research and evaluate financial data to guide investment decisions. This role typically involves minimal direct client interaction while offering substantial earning potential.
"Financial analysts are responsible for researching and analyzing financial data to help their company make sound investment decisions. While the job can be demanding, it is generally considered low-stress because it does not involve direct client interaction or sales. Financial analysts typically have a background in accounting or finance, and many companies offer on-the-job training." - Benjamin Basic, Content Writer, Fast Food Menu Prices
*Average Salary Range: $57,000 - $70,000
Accounting
Accounting offers predictability and routine, making it one of the most stress-free options in finance. With steady demand across all industries, job security adds another layer of peace of mind.
"The least stressful job in the finance sector is "Accounting." It requires you to build a routine that you can follow daily. It does not require much effort if you have the skill. An accountant is never on the counter and does not have to deal with clients face to face. One of the hardest things in accounting is the terminology. But if you have a bachelor's degree in accounting or business, you must know these terms. The best part is that accounting jobs are also quite well-paying. Another plus point is that almost every business needs an accountant, no matter the niche, so there is never a lack of job opportunities." - Tiffany Homan, COO, Texas Divorce Laws
*Average Salary Range: $54,000 - $66,000
Check out my feature in: 11 Reasons to Get Your Masters' in Finance
Portfolio Manager
Entry-level portfolio management offers a gentler introduction to finance while maintaining impressive earning potential. With analytical support from your team, this role balances responsibility with manageable stress levels.
"An introductory portfolio manager manages a team of analysts who help them make investment decisions. This job is a great way to get started in the finance industry without worrying about the high-stress levels of some other jobs. Plus, you can make a good salary and bonus with this position." - Grace He, People and Culture Director, teambuilding.com
*Average Salary Range: $63,000 - $84,000
Personal Financial Advisor
Personal financial advisors help individuals plan for retirement, manage budgets, and invest assets. This relationship-based role offers the satisfaction of helping others while earning an impressive income.
"One low-stress job in finance that pays well is a personal financial advisor. They help people save for retirement, budget their money, and invest their assets. Personal financial advisors typically require a college degree in finance or a related field, but they can earn a six-figure salary." - Aviad Faruz, CEO, FARUZO
*Average Salary Range: $57,000 - $93,000
Internal Auditor
Internal auditors enjoy well-defined responsibilities and predictable workflows. This compliance-focused role offers stability with moderate complexity.
"Internal auditors validate financial transactions within organizations—including payroll, benefits, invoice payments, and systems compliance. You'll prepare reports with findings and recommendations to ensure financial effectiveness while coordinating with external auditors. Projects typically have limited complexity and low stress due to the nature of serving as a checks-and-balances support role." - Annette Harris, Founder, Harris Financial Coaching
*Average Salary Range: $57,000 - $69,000
FP&A Manager
For those with experience, FP&A management offers excellent compensation with moderate stress levels. This analytical role involves budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking without final decision-making pressure.
"As an FP&A, you can work in any Fortune 500 or related company or pursue a career in banking structures. Regardless of the organization, you will have similar responsibilities covering putting together profit and loss, preparing summarizing reports and recommendations, or providing commercial analysis on KPIs. The FP&A manager is also responsible for business forecasting and creating financial budgets. FP&A is a 9-5 office job that involves a moderate level of stress. You are mainly occupied with making analyses, providing advice, and managing, while final financial decisions are made at other levels. With seniority, you gain flexible hours, promotions, and, of course, pay raises. As an FP&A manager, it does require 5-10 years of experience." - Nina Paczka, Community Manager, Live Career
**Average Salary Range: $116,000 - $146,000
Insurance Advisor (Risk Manager)
Insurance advisors combine relationship-building with analytical skills. This role offers substantial compensation while helping clients protect their financial futures.
"An insurance advisor's role is to help clients choose the right insurance policies tailored to their needs. They may also advise clients on how to use their policies best to maximize value. Success requires strong communication, problem-solving, and persuasive selling skills to succeed in the job. Product knowledge is also a must. Insurance advisors work in various settings, including banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions. The role of an insurance advisor is of utmost importance as it affects the family's financial well-being. To make the client depend on your experience and advice, you need to be diligent and trustworthy towards your work." - Agata Szczepanek, Community Manager, LiveCareer
**Average Salary Range: $107,000 - $142,000
What Makes These Finance Jobs Low-Stress?
Three key factors contribute to the reduced stress levels in these finance careers:
Routine Tasks - Predictable workflows create stability and reduce uncertainty
Regular Hours - Most positions follow standard 9-5 schedules, supporting work-life balance
Limited Client Interaction - Reduced exposure to demanding clients minimizes interpersonal stress
Resources to Advance Your Finance Career
For those interested in deepening their financial knowledge, "How Finance Works: The HBR Guide to Thinking Smart About the Numbers" offers valuable insights into how money is raised, invested, and managed, covering various financial assets and how their values are determined by market forces.
Finding Your Ideal Finance Career Path
While these positions generally offer lower stress levels than other finance roles, personal fit remains crucial. Research potential positions thoroughly, considering how each aligns with your skills, interests, and personality. The right finance career can provide both financial security and the quality of life you deserve.
Salary ranges represent USA national averages for entry-level positions with 0-2 years of related experience unless otherwise noted with ** (requiring 5+ years of experience).
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