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Salary Data7 min

Entry Level Salaries by Industry 2026

Starting salary varies dramatically by industry. Compare entry level salaries across sectors.

Technology

Entry level tech salaries: $60,000-$120,000. Software engineering pays best among entry roles.

Finance

Entry level finance: $50,000-$100,000. Investment banking pays premium starting salaries.

Consulting

Entry level consulting: $70,000-$110,000. Top strategy firms pay best.

Engineering

Entry level engineering: $55,000-$85,000. Petroleum and chemical engineering pay highest.

Healthcare

Entry healthcare: $50,000-$90,000. Nursing and allied health offer strong starting pay.

Legal

Entry legal: $70,000-$190,000. Big law firms pay premium starting salaries.

Marketing

Entry marketing: $40,000-$65,000. Digital marketing skills increase starting offers.

Education

Entry education: $35,000-$55,000. Teaching salaries vary significantly by state.

Retail and Hospitality

Entry retail/hospitality: $25,000-$40,000. Management trainee programs pay more.

Government

Entry government: $35,000-$55,000. Strong benefits compensate for lower starting pay.