How much does a fractional executive cost?

Fractional executive costs vary by role. Fractional CFOs typically charge $150–$325/hour (median $200). Fractional CTOs charge $170–$360/hour (median $225). Fractional CMOs charge $135–$290/hour (median $180). Monthly retainers range from $7,000 to $28,000 depending on role, city, and engagement scope.

What is a fractional executive?

A fractional executive is a C-suite leader (CFO, CTO, CMO, COO, etc.) who works part-time for your company — typically 10–20 hours per week — at a fraction of full-time cost. They bring the same experience as a full-time executive without the full-time salary, benefits, and equity obligations.

Is hiring a fractional executive worth it?

Yes. A fractional executive typically costs 20–40% of a full-time hire. A full-time CFO costs $300K–$600K/year in salary plus benefits and equity. A fractional CFO at $10,000–$20,000/month delivers the same strategic value at a fraction of the cost — ideal for Series A–C companies and growth-stage businesses.

What cities have the highest fractional executive rates?

San Francisco, Seattle, and New York have the highest fractional executive rates. San Francisco fractional CFOs charge a median $275/hour vs $195 in Austin. Remote engagements typically fall between major market rates and national averages.

Live data from 500+ verified fractional exec profiles · Updated 2026

What Does a Fractional Executive
Actually Cost?

The most complete public database of fractional CFO, CTO, CMO, COO & CWO rates — by city, by role, by percentile. No more guessing.

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$150–$460

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National median rates across all fractional executive roles. Click any role for city-by-city breakdowns.

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Fractional CFO Rates by City

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More Role Rates

Fractional CTO RatesNational median $225/hr Fractional CMO RatesNational median $180/hr Fractional COO RatesNational median $195/hr Fractional CWO RatesNational median $145/hr Fractional CTO — San FranciscoMedian $305/hr Fractional CTO — New YorkMedian $275/hr Fractional CMO — New YorkMedian $220/hr Fractional COO — New YorkMedian $240/hr

Context

What's Included in Fractional Exec Rates?

Part-Time Engagement

Most fractional executives work 10–20 hours/week. The hourly rate multiplied by committed hours = your monthly cost.

No Benefits, No Equity

You're not paying salary, benefits, or equity cliff. The rate covers everything — just deliverables and executive time.

Flexible Duration

Engagements run 3–18 months on average. No 2-year employment contracts. Exit when your needs are met.

Real Savings

A fractional CFO at $12K/month costs $144K/year. A full-time CFO costs $350K+ in salary alone — before benefits and equity.

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What Does a Fractional ExecutiveActually Cost?