Accountants and Auditors: $83,680 median salary in 2025
The median annual wage for accountants and auditors hit $83,680 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $40 an hour. The typical range runs from $56,020 at the 10th percentile to $144,090 at the 90th. With 1.45 million people employed in the occupation and over 124,000 openings projected each year through 2034, this is a sizable, stable field.
How much Accountants and Auditors earn
The BLS reports that the mean annual wage for accountants and auditors is $94,750, though half of all workers earn less than $83,680. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) pay around $56,020, while experienced professionals in the top 10% pull in over $144,090.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state is the District of Columbia, with an average salary of $111,530. New York ($102,640), New Jersey ($100,830), Massachusetts ($99,460), and Connecticut ($97,550) round out the top five. At the other end, Nebraska ($72,080), Mississippi ($68,100), and Arkansas ($66,330) pay below the national median. Cost of living differences partly explain the spread, but even adjusted, DC and the Northeast tend to lead.
How to become Accountants and Auditor
Most accountants and auditors need at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. A master's in accounting or an MBA can boost job prospects, but is rarely required to start. The standard route is:
- Earn a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration with accounting coursework.
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level staff accounting roles.
- Pursue certification: the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is the gold standard. Requirements include 150 semester hours (often a master's), passing the Uniform CPA Exam, and meeting state-specific experience rules.
- Other credentials like Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) can help for specialized tracks.
- Many employers also expect proficiency with accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP) and advanced Excel.
Job outlook
Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 4.6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 124,200 openings per year on average, mostly from retirements and turnover. Growth is driven by globalization, regulatory complexity, and an expanding economy. The strongest demand will be for CPAs and those with expertise in specific industries like healthcare or government.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for an accountant in 2025?
The latest BLS data shows a median of $83,680 and a mean of $94,750 per year. Entry-level pays around $56,020, while top earners exceed $144,090.
Do you need a CPA to work as an accountant?
No, but a CPA license significantly boosts earnings and job prospects. Many accountants without CPA credentials still work in industry, government, or as bookkeepers.
Is accounting a good career in 2025?
Yes: stable demand with 4.6% projected growth, over 124,000 annual openings, and a solid middle-class income. The field offers clear advancement paths and many industry options.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Accountants and Auditors data.