How Much Does a Financial Advisor Cost?

A good financial advisor isn’t an expense—they’re an investment.
How Much Does a Financial Advisor Cost?
goodluz/Shutterstock
Due
By Due
Updated:
0:00

Let’s talk about something that stops a lot of people from getting financial advice: the cost. You might imagine financial advisors as expensive professionals who only work with millionaires, charging thousands of dollars just to have a conversation. The reality is much more nuanced—and often more affordable than you’d expect.

Financial advisor fees vary widely depending on what type of advisor you choose, how much money you have to invest, and what services you need. Some charge a few hundred dollars for a one-time consultation, while others take a percentage of your investments each year. Let’s break down exactly what you can expect to pay and whether it’s worth it.

The Main Ways Financial Advisors Get Paid

Assets Under Management (AUM) Fees: This is the most common fee structure. The advisor charges an annual percentage of the money they manage for you. Typically, this ranges from 0.5 percent to two percent per year.