How much do first year MBB consultants make?

Understanding First-Year MBB Consulting Salaries

Entering the world of management consulting right out of undergraduate studies is an exciting milestone, especially given the competitive compensation packages offered by top-tier firms. For newcomers looking at the industry, understanding how much early-career professionals make provides a clear picture of what to expect.

At top-tier firms—often referred to as MBB, which includes McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company—first-year base salaries typically range from $105,000 to $115,000. When adding performance incentives, signing bonuses, and other benefits, total first-year compensation easily pushes into the range of $125,000 to $140,000.

Compared to other pathways in the professional services landscape, strategy consulting stands out:

Tier 2 firms like Deloitte, PwC, and Accenture Strategy generally offer base salaries between $85,000 and $100,000. Meanwhile, boutique strategy firms such as Oliver Wyman and OC&C fall comfortably in the middle, offering base salaries between $95,000 and $110,000. On the higher end for specialized fields, restructuring and specialist firms like Alvarez & Marsal start undergraduate hires with base salaries ranging from $125,000 to $130,000.

Ultimately, landing a role at an MBB firm represents one of the highest-paying entry points for new graduates, balancing rigorous analytical work with substantial financial rewards.