Entry Level Jobs: Salary Expectations by Industry
Written by Jennifer Torres, SHRM-CP
Career Development Expert | Former University Career Advisor
Last updated: March 2026 | 11 min read
Your first job sets the foundation for your entire career trajectory. Understanding realistic salary expectations by industry helps you evaluate offers, choose the right career path, and negotiate effectively. This guide breaks down entry level compensation across major industries with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry surveys.
Tech Entry Level Salaries
Technology offers some of the highest entry level salaries in the economy. According to BLS data, computer and information technology occupations have a median annual wage of $104,420, with entry level positions starting well above the national average. Major tech companies compete aggressively for new graduates, driving starting salaries higher each year.
Tech Entry Level Salary Ranges
| Role | Entry Salary | Year 3 Salary | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | $75,000 - $120,000 | $110,000 - $180,000 | +47% |
| Data Analyst | $55,000 - $75,000 | $75,000 - $100,000 | +36% |
| Product Manager (APM) | $90,000 - $130,000 | $130,000 - $180,000 | +44% |
| UX Designer | $60,000 - $85,000 | $85,000 - $120,000 | +42% |
| IT Support Specialist | $45,000 - $60,000 | $55,000 - $75,000 | +22% |
| QA Engineer | $55,000 - $80,000 | $75,000 - $110,000 | +36% |
Source: BLS OEWS data, supplemented with industry compensation surveys. Ranges reflect national averages; major tech hubs pay 15-30% more.
Healthcare Entry Level Salaries
Healthcare offers a wide range of entry points with varying educational requirements. The BLS projects healthcare occupations to grow 13% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Entry level positions range from certified nursing assistants to new physician assistants, with salaries reflecting the required training.
Healthcare Entry Level Salary Ranges
| Role | Education Required | Entry Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | BSN or ADN | $60,000 - $75,000 |
| Physician Assistant | Masters Degree | $95,000 - $115,000 |
| Physical Therapist | DPT (Doctorate) | $75,000 - $90,000 |
| Medical Technologist | Bachelors Degree | $52,000 - $65,000 |
| Medical Assistant | Certificate/Diploma | $35,000 - $42,000 |
| Certified Nursing Assistant | Certificate | $32,000 - $40,000 |
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. New graduate salaries may include shift differentials for evening/night work.
Finance Entry Level Salaries
Finance offers some of the steepest salary progressions in any industry. Entry level positions at top firms come with high base salaries plus substantial bonuses. The BLS reports median pay for financial analysts at $95,570, with investment banking and private equity offering significantly more to new graduates.
Finance Entry Level Compensation
Top banks (Goldman, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley)
+ $30-50K bonus
MBB (McKinsey, Bain, BCG)
+ $25-35K bonus
Corporate finance, F500 companies
+ 5-15% bonus
Big 4 (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG)
+ CPA bonus
Branch banking
Hourly position
Marketing Entry Level Salaries
Marketing salaries vary significantly by specialization and company type. Digital marketing skills command premiums, while traditional marketing roles offer steady but lower starting pay. The BLS reports median pay for marketing specialists at $68,230, with significant variation based on industry and location.
Marketing Entry Level Salaries
Digital Marketing Roles
Traditional Marketing Roles
Tech and finance companies typically pay 20-30% more for marketing roles than agencies or smaller firms.
Education Entry Level Salaries
Education salaries are largely determined by district, state, and degree level. The BLS reports the median annual wage for high school teachers at $62,360 and for elementary school teachers at $61,690. While starting salaries are modest, education offers strong job security, benefits, and predictable salary schedules.
Education Starting Salaries by Role
| Position | Starting Salary | After 10 Years |
|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher (Bachelors) | $38,000 - $52,000 | $55,000 - $75,000 |
| K-12 Teacher (Masters) | $42,000 - $58,000 | $62,000 - $85,000 |
| Special Education Teacher | $42,000 - $55,000 | $58,000 - $78,000 |
| School Counselor | $48,000 - $58,000 | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| Teaching Assistant | $28,000 - $35,000 | $32,000 - $42,000 |
Source: BLS OEWS data. Salaries vary significantly by state and district. Urban and suburban districts typically pay more than rural areas.
Growth Trajectories: First 5 Years
Understanding salary growth trajectories helps you choose the right starting point. Some industries front-load compensation growth, while others offer steady, predictable increases over time.
5-Year Salary Growth by Industry
Fastest growth through promotions and job changes. Senior engineer levels reached in 4-6 years.
Steep progression with bonuses increasing faster than base. VP level in 5-7 years.
Steady growth with experience. Additional credentials (certifications, specializations) drive increases.
Growth accelerates with specialization. Manager roles typically reached in 4-5 years.
Predictable step increases. Masters degree and additional credits boost pay significantly.
Maximizing Your Starting Salary
Your starting salary affects your entire career earnings. Research shows that a $5,000 difference in starting salary can translate to over $600,000 in lifetime earnings. Here are strategies to maximize your entry level compensation.
Entry Level Negotiation Tips
Research Thoroughly
Use BLS data, Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, and Payscale to understand market rates. Know the range before you negotiate.
Consider Total Compensation
Signing bonuses, relocation assistance, stock grants, and benefits can add 10-30% to your base salary value.
Negotiate Even Entry Roles
Studies show 84% of employers expect negotiation. Even 5-10% more sets a higher baseline for future raises.
Get Multiple Offers
Competing offers give you leverage and market data. Companies often match or beat competitive offers.
Key Takeaways
- Tech and finance offer highest starting pay. Entry level software engineers and investment bankers can start at $100,000+.
- Growth trajectories matter as much as starting salary. Tech offers 80-120% growth in 5 years vs 15-25% in education.
- Healthcare requires more education but offers stability. Advanced degrees lead to higher starting pay and long-term job security.
- Always negotiate your entry level offer. Even small increases compound significantly over your career.
Explore Salary Data by Career
Research specific salary data for your target occupation across all major metro areas.
Data Sources
Salary data compiled from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, supplemented with entry level compensation data from Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, and Handshake university recruiting surveys.