Actuary Average Salary in 2026

Actuaries are professionals who analyze financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory. They often work in insurance, pensions, consulting, and finance, playing a critical role in long-term strategic planning.

Average Actuary Salary in 2026

In 2026, the average salary for actuaries in the United States is estimated to range between $85,000 and $190,000, depending on experience, certification level, and industry.

• Entry-Level (0–2 years): $70,000 – $95,000

• Mid-Level (3–7 years): $100,000 – $135,000

• Senior-Level (8–15 years): $140,000 – $175,000

• Fellowship/Executive Level: $180,000 – $250,000+

📌 Take-home for a $103K salary in 2026 after taxes would average around $75,000–$78,000 annually depending on state and deductions.

Factors That Influence Actuary Salaries

1. Experience Level

More years on the job lead to higher salaries, especially once a professional attains actuarial credentials.

2. Certifications

Certifications from recognized bodies significantly impact salary:

• Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA) or Casualty Actuarial Society (ACAS): Boosts salary to $90K–$120K+

• Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) or Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS): Commands $150K–$200K+

3. Industry Type

Salaries vary by industry:

• Insurance (Life, Health, P&C): $90K–$160K

• Consulting: $95K–$180K

• Finance/Investment: $120K–$200K+

• Government/Academia: $70K–$120K

4. Location

Urban areas and financial hubs pay more:

• High-paying cities: New York, San Francisco, Chicago

• Lower cost areas: Offer reduced salaries but may have better take-home pay

5. Job Title

Leadership roles yield higher earnings:

• Lead Actuary: $140K–$180K

• Senior Risk Officer: $170K–$220K

• Chief Actuary: $200K+

Salary Trends in 2026

• 📈 Growth: Actuary salaries continue to rise due to demand in risk management, climate modeling, and health analytics.

• 💻 Tech Integration: Actuaries skilled in Python, SQL, R, or machine learning earn 10–20% more.

• 🌎 Remote Work: Increasing salary flexibility and geographic mobility.

Benefits and Perks

Besides base salary, actuaries typically receive:

• Bonuses (10–25% of salary)

• 401(k) matching and profit-sharing

• Comprehensive health insurance

• Paid exam support and study hours

• Remote or hybrid work options

Education and Certification Impact

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields.

Certification Bodies:

• SOA (Society of Actuaries): Life, health, pension specialties

• CAS (Casualty Actuarial Society): Property and casualty insurance

• CIA (Canada), IFoA (UK): International credentials

Continuous Learning:

• Professionals with continued education in data science, AI, or cyber risk increase salary potential significantly.

Job Outlook for Actuaries in 2026

• Job growth rate: ~20% from 2021 to 2031 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• High demand areas: Health insurance, climate risk, pension consulting, InsurTech startups

• Skill gaps: Employers are actively seeking actuaries with tech and analytics skills

Summary

Final Thoughts

Actuaries remain among the top-paying and stable professions in 2026, with salaries reflecting the growing need for data-driven risk management. Earning potential grows steadily with credentials, experience, and technical proficiency—making it a rewarding long-term career path.