A budget analyst examines financial data and creates spending plans for government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses. You'll need a bachelor's degree and strong math skills. The work is detail-oriented, analytical, and in demand across the public and private sectors.
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Budget analysts review financial records, track spending, and develop budgets that guide how organizations allocate money. You'll spend significant time working with computers and spreadsheets, gathering information from departments and supervisors, and analyzing data to spot trends and inefficiencies. You'll communicate your findings to leadership and help organizations plan for the future. The role requires you to organize complex information, think critically about numbers, and write clear reports that explain your recommendations.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Budget Analysts earn a median of $91,640 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 1 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 3,100 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree to enter this field. During your studies, focus on economics, accounting, mathematics, and administration. Develop strong skills in data analysis, spreadsheet software, and financial systems. Job Zone 4 preparation means considerable work experience or education is expected. Many budget analysts start in entry-level finance or accounting roles to build practical experience before moving into budget analysis. Consider internships in government or nonprofit finance during your degree program.
Most budget analysts earn their bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or economics. Since the path is fairly direct, Pathly can map the budget analyst path that fits you with your counselor to map out which degree programs and internships align with your timeline and career goals.
You do not need a license to work as a budget analyst, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable with numbers and systems. You think logically about problems, follow established procedures, and take pride in accuracy and organization.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).