Average Salary for an Accountant in the USA 2025: Pay by Experience Levels, Top States & How to Earn More
In 2025, the salary for an Accountant matters a lot for career choices.
Accountants are financial professionals who prepare, examine, and analyze financial records for businesses and individuals. They ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid properly and on time. This makes them essential for every business to run smoothly.
The demand for skilled accountants remains strong across America. Companies need accountants to handle their books, prepare tax returns, and provide financial advice. Many accountants also work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, and accounting firms. Some choose to start their own practices and work with multiple clients.
Understanding your career worth in 2025 is crucial for making smart job decisions. Salary ranges vary widely based on where you work, your experience level, and your certifications, like a CPA. Some states pay much more than others due to cost-of-living and business demand differences.
This blog will help you understand what accountants earn across different states and experience levels.
We will answer key questions like: What is the average salary? How much do entry-level accountants make? Which states pay the most? How can you increase your earnings? What benefits come with accounting jobs? How does experience affect pay? We use data from government sources and major salary surveys to give you accurate information.
Whether you are thinking about becoming an accountant or already working as one, this guide will help you understand the current job market and earning potential in 2025. You will learn about salary trends, regional differences, and practical ways to boost your income in the accounting field.
Explore other high-paying careers in finance and business.
Average Salary for an Accountant in the USA?
$75,200 per year (Average)
We calculated this average salary using data from multiple reliable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, major job platforms like Indeed, and several global salary surveys. Indeed reports $66,761 per year based on 17,600+ salaries, while other major platforms show $93,524 per year. Government statistics indicate the median annual wage was $81,680 in May 2024.
The current average salary shows steady growth from last year's figures. This increase reflects the continued demand for accounting professionals and the expansion of financial regulations that require more skilled accountants in businesses.
Salary for an Accountant Key Metrics 2025
Average salary: According to government data and salary surveys, accountants earn an average of $75,200 a year. This number reflects input from various sources, like federal labor stats and major job sites.
Salary range: The salary range varies based on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level accountants earn around $57,189. In contrast, senior-level management accountants with CMA certification make between $102,750 and $164,500 each year. This range highlights how factors like experience and specialization impact earnings.
Salary by experience: According to many U.S. data sources and surveys:
Junior accountants typically start around $57,000-$62,000 per year.
Mid-level professionals with 3-5 years of experience earn around $70,000-$85,000.
Senior accountants with 5+ years of experience can expect averages of $90,000-$120,000 or more with specialized skills.
75th percentile: According to salary surveys and government data, accountants in the 75th percentile earn about $95,000 to $105,000 each year. This indicates that 25% of accountants earn more, often those with advanced certifications or in high-paying areas.
Salary for an Accountant: Regional Comparison
Location plays a huge role in determining accountant salaries. States with higher costs of living and more business activity typically offer higher salaries to attract qualified professionals. Urban financial centers often pay more than rural areas, but rural locations may offer better work-life balance and lower living costs.
Here's how salaries compare across major regions and top-paying states.
Data collected from several global salary surveys and government statistics, 2025
The states that pay accountants the highest mean salary are New York ($113,310), District of Columbia ($113,190), New Jersey ($110,700), California ($100,560), and Massachusetts ($99,360).
New York offers the best overall value when considering both salary and career opportunities in major financial firms, though the high cost of living should be factored into any decision. States like New Jersey and Massachusetts provide strong earning potential with slightly lower living costs compared to New York City.
7 Tips to Grow Your Accountant Salary
1. Get CPA Certification: Earning your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license can significantly increase your earning potential. Many USA salary surveys show that CPAs earn 15-25% more than non-certified accountants. The CPA credential opens doors to senior positions, public accounting firms, and consulting opportunities that command premium salaries.
2. Specialize in High-Demand Areas: According to several global salary surveys and government statistics, certain accounting specialties command higher salaries. Tax specialists, forensic accountants, and management accountants typically earn $10,000-$20,000 more annually than general accountants. IT audit and compliance specialties also offer premium pay rates.
3. Move to High-Paying States: Relocating to high-paying states can boost your salary substantially. Moving from low-paying states like Florida to high-paying states like Washington can increase earnings by $25,000-$40,000 annually. Factor in the cost of living, but don't overlook states with good pay-to-cost ratios.
4. Gain Management Experience: Taking on leadership roles like accounting manager, controller, or finance director can add $15,000-$30,000 to your annual salary, according to industry reports. These positions also provide valuable experience for future CFO roles and executive positions that offer significantly higher compensation.
5. Pursue Advanced Degrees: Many salary surveys show that accountants with Master's or MBA degrees earn 10-18% more than those with just a bachelor's degree. Advanced education also leads to opportunities in consulting, investment banking, and corporate finance, which offer higher pay.
6. Work in High-Paying Industries: According to government statistics and USA sources, accountants working in finance, technology, healthcare, and consulting often earn more than those in traditional accounting firms or government roles. Public accounting firms also offer clear advancement paths with substantial salary increases.
7. Develop Technology Skills: Many USA salary surveys show that accountants with strong technology skills earn premium salaries. Knowledge of advanced Excel, SQL, Power BI, QuickBooks Enterprise, and ERP systems can add $5,000-$15,000 annually. Data analytics and automation skills are increasingly valuable in modern accounting roles.
FAQs About an Accountant's Salary
Is the average salary for an Accountant before or after tax?
All salary figures mentioned are gross annual salaries before taxes. Your actual take-home pay will be lower after federal, state, and local taxes are deducted. Tax rates vary by state and income level, so calculate your specific situation.
Does the Accountant's salary include bonuses and overtime?
No, the base salary figures do not include bonuses or overtime pay. Many accountants earn additional compensation through year-end bonuses, especially during tax season. Performance bonuses, profit-sharing, and overtime pay are listed separately on most job platforms.
How much do entry-level Accountants make in 2025?
Entry-level accountants earn an average of $57,189 per year, according to current salary data. New graduates typically start at the lower end of the pay range but can expect regular increases as they gain experience and demonstrate competency in their roles.
What benefits do Accountants typically receive?
Most accounting positions include comprehensive benefits packages. Common benefits include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, retirement plans with employer matching, paid time off, continuing education allowances, and professional development opportunities. Many firms also offer flexible work arrangements.
How does an Accountant's pay compare to other business roles?
Accountants earned an average salary of $90,780 in 2023, while comparable jobs earned the following: Financial Managers made $174,820, Financial Advisors made $150,670, Financial Analysts made $112,950, and Bookkeeping clerks made $49,580. Accountants earn more than bookkeepers but less than financial managers and advisors.
Do Accountants get paid holidays and vacation time?
Yes, most full-time accounting positions include paid holidays and vacation time. Typical packages offer 10-12 paid holidays per year plus 2-3 weeks of paid vacation time for new employees. Sick leave and personal days are usually included as well.
What factors affect an Accountant's salary the most?
Location, experience level, certifications like CPA, and work setting have the biggest impact on accounting salaries. Geographic location can create salary differences of $30,000-$50,000 annually between high and low-paying states. CPA certification alone can add 15-25% to base salary.
Can Accountants work part-time and still earn good money?
Yes, many accountants work part-time, especially during non-busy seasons. Part-time positions typically pay the same hourly rate as full-time roles but may have different benefit packages. Many accounting firms need part-time help during tax season and year-end closing periods.
How often do Accountant salaries increase?
Most employers provide annual salary reviews with potential increases of 3-6% for good performance. Changing jobs, gaining CPA certification, or moving to specialized roles can result in larger salary jumps of 15-30%. Promotions to senior or management roles offer the biggest increases.
Are there opportunities for Accountants to earn extra income?
Yes, many accountants earn additional income through tax preparation services, bookkeeping for small businesses, consulting work, or teaching part-time. These side opportunities can add $5,000-$25,000 annually to base salary income, especially during tax season.
Do public or private companies pay Accountants better?
Public accounting firms often offer higher starting salaries and faster advancement, but require longer hours, especially during the busy season. Private companies may offer better work-life balance and steady hours. Government positions typically offer lower salaries but excellent benefits and job security.
What is the job outlook for Accountants in 2025?
Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, with about 130,800 openings projected each year. This strong demand helps support competitive salary levels across the profession.
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All pay information is current as of 2025. Data comes from several global salary surveys and government statistics, 2025.
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