FAQ
Budget Analyst FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a budget analyst.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a budget analyst: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about budget analysts
Where do budget analysts work?
Often in government, universities and large companies.
What is the CGFM?
A government finance credential.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects slow growth.
How much does a budget analyst make?
The median annual wage for budget analysts was $91,640 ($44.06 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $62,250 and the highest 10% earned more than $136,660.
How long does it take to become a budget analyst?
Most people need about Entry-level with a degree of training. A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, economics or public administration is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a budget analyst?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is budget analyst a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +1.9% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 2,900 openings each year. Upsides include stable government jobs; a common challenge is that slow growth.
What skills does a budget analyst need?
Key technical skills include budget preparation, financial analysis, forecasting, and excel. Employers also value attention to detail, communication, and integrity.
What certifications are available for budget analysts?
Common credentials include CGFM, CPA, CMA, and MPA. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Budget Analyst fit quiz, compare with Financial Analyst, or explore Budget Analyst training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-2031 (Budget analysts).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Budget analysts (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.