Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks Salary 2025: $50,670 Median, -5.8% Decline
The median annual salary for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks is $50,670 as of 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $53,560, or roughly $24 per hour. Most clerks earn between $36,000 (10th percentile) and $74,550 (90th percentile). With 1.37 million jobs nationwide, this is a large occupation—but one that is shrinking.
How much do Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks earn?
The median annual wage is $50,670. The lowest 10% earn about $36,000, while the highest 10% earn $74,550. The mean hourly wage is $24. Pay varies significantly by industry and location.
Pay by state
Top-paying states: District of Columbia ($65,180), Connecticut ($59,970), Massachusetts ($59,830), California ($59,230), and Washington ($58,620). Lower-paying states: West Virginia ($42,890), Arkansas ($42,840), and Mississippi ($42,840).
How to become a Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerk
Most employers require a high school diploma plus some college coursework in accounting, or an associate degree in accounting or business. Key steps:
1. Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. 2. Complete postsecondary courses in bookkeeping, accounting software (QuickBooks, Excel), and basic math. 3. Gain experience through entry-level jobs or internships. 4. Consider certification: the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) credential from AIPB or the QuickBooks Certified User certification can improve job prospects.
Job outlook
Employment of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks is projected to decline 5.8% from 2024 to 2034. Automation and software are reducing demand for manual data entry. However, around 170,000 openings per year will arise from workers leaving the occupation. Growth varies by industry, with more opportunities in larger firms and specialized accounting services.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a college degree to be a bookkeeping clerk?
No, but an associate degree in accounting or related field is common. Many employers prefer candidates with coursework in accounting and software like QuickBooks.
Which industries pay the most for bookkeeping clerks?
Top-paying industries include securities and commodity exchanges, monetary authorities, and computer systems design. Government and insurance also pay above average.
Is bookkeeping a dying job?
The occupation is declining due to automation, with a projected -5.8% growth. But about 170,000 openings per year mean there are still jobs, especially for those with tech skills.
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 Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks data.