Accountant and Auditor Salaries: CPA vs. Non-CPA Earnings

Accountants and auditors work across every sector of the economy — public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, government agencies, and nonprofits. BLS OEWS data reflects this diversity with a wage range that spans from entry-level bookkeeping-adjacent roles to senior CPA positions in major markets.

CPA Premium

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential is the primary professional license in accounting and carries a measurable wage premium over non-CPA accountants at equivalent experience levels. BLS data blends CPA and non-CPA holders — the median reflects the full mix. CPA holders in public accounting senior and partner roles typically sit well above the published median.

Public Accounting vs. Industry

Public accounting firms (Big 4 and regional firms) serve as the training ground for much of the accounting profession — and historically pay less at early career stages than large corporate finance departments. Senior accountants who move to industry after public accounting often see salary increases.

Highest-Paying States

Washington D.C., New York, and California rank at the top for accountant wages. Browse accounting wages in the Business and Financial Operations Occupations group.