Financial advisors in the U.S. tend to be on the older side (41% are aged 55 and older). Though older workers dominate this occupation, it is potentially enticing to young professionals as a high-paying job. The average annual earnings for advisors in 2019 was almost $119,300, more than two times the average annual earnings for all U.S. workers.

What’s more, advisors may tailor their own practice to their strengths or interests and have a flexible work schedule. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has spurred many people to consider hiring a financial advisor. A recent survey shows that ~20% of Gen Xers, millennials and Gen Zers who did not have a financial advisor before the pandemic plan to start working with one now.

To find the best cities for young financials to start their careers, SmartAsset analyzed data for 100 of the largest U.S. cities across five metrics reflective of pay, affordability and client base potential.

San Diego ranks as the 11th-best city for young financial advisors to set up shop. To learn more about the top-ranking cities, check out the infographic below.