Tolulope MichaelHow Much Does a GRC Analyst Make
The question, how much does a GRC analyst make, is one of the most popular enquiries as regulatory requirements are increasing, businesses continue to prioritize risk management, governance, and compliance to stay competitive. This has placed Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Analysts in high demand.
Understanding how much a GRC Analyst makes can provide valuable insight into this career’s earning potential, from entry-level positions to senior roles. Salary expectations vary significantly depending on factors such as skill level, experience, and location, making it essential for aspiring and current professionals to explore these variables.
RELATED: How to Get into Governance Risk and Compliance
How Much Does a GRC Analyst Make: Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
| Average Salary | $97,659 per year or $46.95 per hour |
| Entry-Level Salary | $55,000 – $91,288 per year |
| Senior GRC Analyst Salary | $109,846 per year or $52.81 per hour |
| Top Locations (Average) | – California: $119,000 per year- Washington: $125,350 per year- New York: $123,750 per year |
| Hourly Pay Range | $46.95/hour (average); up to $58/hour in high-paying cities like Nome, AK |
| Responsibilities | – Conduct audits- Perform risk assessments- Develop and monitor compliance frameworks |
| Key Certifications | CGRC, CRISC, CISA |
| Job Demand | High, particularly in finance, healthcare, government, and technology sectors |
| Regional Variations | Salaries highest in states with strong tech and finance industries; lower in regions like Nevada |
| Career Growth | Entry-level → Senior GRC Analyst → Managerial or Specialized Risk Roles |
What Is the Role of a GRC Analyst
A GRC Analyst plays an important role in ensuring that organizations meet compliance standards, manage risks effectively, and maintain governance protocols.
These professionals design, monitor, and assess frameworks that help businesses navigate regulatory space and mitigate risks. Their expertise is critical in safeguarding sensitive data, managing internal processes, and ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Career progression in this field often starts with entry-level roles, such as a Junior or GRC Analyst entry-level position, and advances to Senior GRC Analyst and managerial roles. Each stage offers increasing responsibilities, from conducting audits and risk assessments to developing comprehensive compliance strategies.
READ ALSO: GRC Analyst Vs SOC Analyst: Salary, Certifications, and Tools
Average Salary for a GRC Analyst
The average salary for a GRC Analyst in the United States is $97,659 per year, with most professionals earning between $55,000 and $111,000 annually. Salaries typically include a combination of base pay and additional compensation, such as bonuses, profit sharing, or commissions.
For those curious about hourly pay, a GRC Analyst makes approximately $46.95 an hour on average. This calculation highlights the financial rewards of the role, especially for professionals balancing high-level responsibilities with continuous learning in the field.
Understanding the national average is important, but factors like location, experience, and certifications can significantly impact earning potential.
Entry-Level GRC Analyst Salary
For those starting their journey in Governance, Risk, and Compliance, entry-level roles offer a promising gateway into this critical field. The Entry Level GRC Analyst salary typically starts at around $55,000 annually, with some positions reaching up to $91,288 per year.
These roles provide a foundational understanding of GRC processes and often involve tasks like assisting with audits, compliance checks, and basic risk assessments.
While entry-level salaries may seem modest compared to senior roles, candidates with relevant certifications, such as CGRC or CRISC, and hands-on experience through internships or related IT roles can command higher starting pay.
Employers value skills like data analysis, familiarity with regulatory frameworks, and technical expertise, which can accelerate career growth and salary progression.
Senior GRC Analyst Salary
As professionals gain experience and expertise, advancing to a Senior GRC Analyst position can lead to a significant salary increase. The Senior GRC Analyst salary averages $109,846 annually, equating to approximately $52.81 an hour.
Senior roles come with greater responsibilities, such as leading risk assessments, developing compliance frameworks, and mentoring junior team members.
Professionals in senior roles often possess advanced certifications like CGRC or CRISC and a deep understanding of industry-specific regulatory requirements. Employers also value leadership skills and the ability to manage complex projects, which makes Senior GRC Analysts integral to organizational decision-making.
For those aiming to reach this level, continuous skill development and building a track record of successful compliance and risk management initiatives are essential.
Regional Variations in GRC Analyst Salaries
Location plays a significant role in determining a GRC Analyst’s salary. Some states and cities offer higher pay due to higher living costs, greater demand, or the concentration of industries requiring GRC expertise.
For example, in California, a GRC Analyst earns an average of $119,000 annually, placing it among the top-paying states. This salary reflects the state’s booming tech industry and strict regulatory environment.
Other high-paying locations include Washington, where GRC Analysts make an average of $125,350 annually, and New York, where the average is $123,750. In contrast, states like Nevada offer lower salaries, with an average of $76,250, reflecting the reduced demand and cost of living in the region.
Professionals considering relocation should weigh potential salary increases against cost-of-living differences. High-paying cities like Nome, AK, and Berkeley, CA, often present strong financial opportunities for GRC Analysts.
SEE MORE: Adaptive Threat Analysis: A Comprehensive Analysis
Factors Influencing GRC Analyst Salaries
Several factors influence how much a GRC Analyst can earn, ranging from skillset and experience to industry demand and certifications. Here are the primary determinants:
- Skill Level and Certifications: Specialized certifications, such as CGRC, CRISC, or CISA, are highly sought after and can lead to higher salaries. Employers value candidates who demonstrate proficiency in compliance frameworks and risk management tools.
- Experience: Entry-level salaries are naturally lower, but as professionals gain years of experience, their earning potential increases significantly. Senior roles often require a proven track record in handling complex compliance and risk challenges.
- Industry Demand: Sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare frequently require GRC expertise to manage stringent regulations and safeguard sensitive information. Analysts in these industries often earn above-average salaries.
- Geography: As mentioned earlier, salaries can vary widely depending on location. Regions with high demand for compliance roles or higher living costs tend to offer higher compensation.
How to Become a GRC Analyst
Becoming a GRC Analyst requires a combination of education, certifications, and practical experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to entering this field:
- Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in fields such as cybersecurity, business administration, information technology, or related disciplines provides a strong foundation. Courses focusing on risk management and regulatory compliance are particularly beneficial.
- Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications, such as Certified Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), can significantly enhance employability and earning potential.
- Gaining Experience: Start with entry-level roles in IT, auditing, or compliance to build relevant skills. Internships or part-time jobs in these areas can provide a foot in the door.
- Networking and Job Searching: Platforms like LinkedIn, job boards, and industry events are excellent places to connect with professionals and find job openings. Look for roles listed under GRC Analyst entry-level or similar titles.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to remain competitive and increase your chances of moving into senior roles.
This structured approach not only prepares candidates for GRC Analyst jobs but also positions them for long-term success in this growing field.
READ: IGP Vs EGP: A Complete Analysis
Job Market for GRC Analysts
The demand for GRC Analysts has been growing steadily, fueled by increasing regulatory requirements and the need for organizations to manage risk effectively. GRC Analyst jobs are particularly prevalent in industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, and government, where compliance and data security are critical.
Currently, job boards like ZipRecruiter report salaries ranging from $36,500 to as high as $228,500 annually, showcasing the diversity in opportunities based on experience and expertise.
Entry-level roles are often stepping stones to more advanced positions, with professionals transitioning to specialized roles such as Cyber Risk Analyst or Operational Risk Analyst.
Geographically, high-demand regions like California, Washington, and New York offer the most lucrative opportunities, making these ideal locations for those seeking economic advancement. However, even in less active markets, the need for GRC Analysts remains, as businesses across all industries seek to meet compliance standards and mitigate risks.
How Much Does a GRC Analyst Make
The role of a GRC Analyst is dynamic, offering ample opportunities for career growth and specialization. Beyond salaries, professionals in this field benefit from perks such as remote work options, bonuses, and the chance to work on cutting-edge compliance and risk initiatives.
Career advancement often involves transitioning into related roles like Cyber Risk Analyst or Senior GRC Analyst, which offer higher salaries and broader responsibilities. Some professionals choose to specialize further, obtaining certifications like CRISC or focusing on niche areas such as vendor risk management or data privacy.
Additionally, the value of this role is not just monetary. GRC Analysts play a critical part in safeguarding organizational assets and ensuring compliance, making their work impactful and rewarding. For those willing to invest in certifications, gain experience, and stay updated on regulatory trends, the potential for long-term success in this field is significant.
SEE: CUI Vs PII: A Complete Analysis
Conclusion
The role of a GRC Analyst is not only financially rewarding but also offers significant career growth opportunities. With average salaries ranging from $55,000 for entry-level positions to over $100,000 for senior roles, this field provides a lucrative path for those skilled in governance, risk, and compliance.
Factors such as certifications, experience, and location play a major role in determining earning potential, with high-paying regions like California and Washington leading the market.
Aspiring GRC Analysts can start by gaining relevant education, certifications, and experience to establish themselves in this competitive field. With the increasing importance of compliance and risk management across industries, the demand for skilled professionals is set to grow, making this an excellent career choice for the future.
Are you interested in pursuing a career in GRC? Share your thoughts or questions about this field, and let’s discuss how to navigate this exciting path together!
FAQ
Does GRC pay well?
GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance) roles are known for offering competitive salaries. On average, GRC Analysts in the U.S. earn around $97,659 annually, with entry-level roles starting at approximately $55,000 and experienced professionals, such as Senior GRC Analysts, earning upwards of $109,846 per year.
Salaries can vary significantly based on location, certifications, and industry demand, with certain regions like California and Washington offering some of the highest pay rates.
What does a GRC Analyst do?
A GRC Analyst is responsible for helping organizations ensure compliance with regulatory standards, manage risks effectively, and maintain strong governance practices.
Their duties typically include conducting audits, performing risk assessments, developing compliance frameworks, and monitoring security protocols. They play a key role in identifying vulnerabilities, implementing mitigation strategies, and aligning business processes with regulatory requirements.
Is a GRC Analyst a good job?
Being a GRC Analyst is considered a highly rewarding job, both financially and professionally. The role offers competitive salaries, job security due to high demand, and opportunities for advancement into senior positions.
It also provides meaningful work, as GRC Analysts play a crucial role in protecting organizations from risks and ensuring regulatory compliance. For individuals interested in cybersecurity, risk management, or compliance, this is an excellent career path.
How much do risk governance analysts make?
Risk governance analysts, a role closely related to GRC Analysts, earn competitive salaries depending on experience and location. On average, salaries align with GRC Analyst pay, ranging from $55,000 for entry-level positions to over $100,000 for senior roles.
Specialized roles, such as Cyber Risk Analysts, can earn as much as $107,522 annually, with additional compensation through bonuses and benefits in many cases.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your cybersecurity journey? You can do that with an expert beside you to guide you through without having to stress much. Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Tolulope Michael, a cybersecurity professional with over a decade of field experience. This will allow you to gain personalized insights and guidance tailored to your career goals.
Visit tolumichael.com now to book your session. This is your opportunity to embark on your cybersecurity career with confidence. Don’t miss out!
