Accountant Salary in the United States

How much does the average Accountant make in the United States?

The average salary for an Accountant in the United States is between $57,010 and $124,070 as of May 28, 2024. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the actual Accountant position you are looking for. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. View the Cost of Living in Major Cities

Base Salary

Core compensation

$57,010

$124,070

$90,540

What is an Accountant?

An accountant analyzes and organizes the financial information and transactions of an organization. They ensure that principles and standards like GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles) are followed and that all required reporting is prepared and completed. Accountants may be found in any industry. Some accountants may specialize in a particular type of industry like healthcare or energy, or have a specialization, such as tax accounting or cost accounting.

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Accountant

What degree or educational requirements does an accountant need?

Accountants typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in accounting or business administration. Courses in finance, information technology, law required as a foundation. A master's degree or Ph.D. is generally preferred or required for higher level positions. In addition, some accountants obtain a CPA- certified public accountant designation, which requires passing a lengthy exam. Many universities offer cooperative education or internship programs with companies or government agencies to provide hands-on experience to students.

What are the best schools offering accountanting programs?

Some universities offering strong accounting undergraduate programs are University of Texas - Austin, Brigham Young University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Michigan Ann Arbor, University of Pennsylvania, Indiana University, University of Notre Dame, University of Southern California, and New York University, Many community colleges also offer accounting programs granting the associate's degree which could provide training for an entry level accounting job.

Are accountants in demand?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook (BLS), employment of accountants, in general, is projected to grow about 10 percent from 2016 to 2026. The increase in complexity of regulations and taxes in a global economy will ensure accountants are in demand.

What jobs are similar to or related to accountant?

Para-professional accounting jobs like payroll administrator or billing and receivables specialist. Accounting specialties such as cost accountant, tax accountant, or certified public accountant.

Where can I find more information about accountant training and career opportunities?

Explore these additional resources for more on accounting professions.
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Accounting & Financial Women's Alliance: AFWA
National Society of Accountants

What is the working environment for an accountant?

An accountant typically works in an office setting as part of a larger team. Some accountants serve clients and work independently.

Accountant Jobs

Job Openings for Accountant

Senior Accountant

Perfecto Staffing - Memphis , TN

Are you an accountant with a fresh, energetic and great personality? Do you want to work directly with awesome, invested business owners? Do you want to work in a company that is laid back and ...