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Accountant salary
Accountants prepare and examine financial records, identify financial risks, and ensure taxes are paid properly.
Median annual
$79,000
Median hourly
$38
Top 10% earn
$132,000+
Salary range
Bottom 10%$49,000
Median$79,000
Top 10%$132,000
Accountant salary by experience level
How pay typically progresses from a first job to a senior role, modelled from the reported national pay distribution.
| Experience | Years | Annual | Hourly | vs median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | 0–2 years | $52,600 | $25 | -33% |
| Early career | 2–5 years | $67,500 | $32 | -15% |
| Mid career | 5–10 years | $87,700 | $42 | +11% |
| Senior / experienced | 10+ years | $119,800 | $58 | +52% |
- Entry level: Starting pay for newly qualified accountants, before specialisation or overtime.
- Early career: Pay rises quickly once you can work independently and take on harder assignments.
- Mid career: Most workers sit around this level, often with a specialism or a first supervisory role.
- Senior / experienced: Lead, senior or management roles, plus the highest-paying employers and locations.
Career details
Education
Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance; CPA for advancement.
Job outlook
4% growth through 2033 — stable demand for financial expertise.
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