As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Bookkeeping Clerk I in the United States is $42,890 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.
However, a Bookkeeping Clerk I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Bookkeeping Clerk I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Bookkeeping Clerk I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeping Clerk I | 0-1 years | $42,895 |
| Accounting Assistant II | 1-3 years | $48,656 |
| Accounting Assistant III | 3-5 years | $54,711 |
| Accounting Assistant IV | 5-7 years | $61,139 |
| Accounting Operations Supervisor | 7+ years | $89,483 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Bookkeeping Clerk Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 2.23% |
| Credit Card | 2.75% |
| Microsoft Excel | 1.21% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Consulting
|
$48,466 |
13%
|
|
Finance and Accounting
|
$48,466 |
13%
|
|
Presentation
|
$48,466 |
13%
|
|
Financial Reporting
|
$48,037 |
12%
|
|
Analytical Skills
|
$47,608 |
11%
|
|
Commitment
|
$47,608 |
11%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Bookkeeping Clerk Is enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Bookkeeping Clerk I with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $42,126 and $44,803).
Bookkeeping Clerk I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 2.0% |
| High School | 29.4% |
| Associates | 25.8% |
| Bachelors | 37.6% |
| Masters | 4.8% |
| Doctorate | 0.3% |
Understanding how a Bookkeeping Clerk I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Bookkeeping Clerk I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper/Accounting Assistant | $43,900 | 2% |
| Customer Account Adjustments Clerk II | $42,700 | 0% |
| Accounting Assistant II | $48,700 | 14% |
| Plant General and Cost Accounting Manager | $117,400 | 174% |
Salaries for a Bookkeeping Clerk I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $43,239 in 2023 to around $43,123 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Bookkeeping Clerk I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $43,239 |
| 2024 | $43,241 |
| 2025 | $43,123 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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According to the latest salary data, the minimum annual salary for a bookkeeping clerk is $41,390, with a mid-range salary of $45,990 and a maximum of $51,890. In comparison, accountants earn significantly more, with a median annual salary of $73,570, representing a 60% increase over the highest bookkeeping salary.
To become a bookkeeper, you typically need qualifications such as the AAT Level 1 Award in Bookkeeping for beginners, the AAT Level 2 Certificate for essential skills up to trial balance, and the AAT Level 3 Certificate for advanced knowledge. Salaries for bookkeeping clerks range from $41,390 to $51,890, with a median salary of $45,990.
While some may view clerk positions as dead-end jobs, the salary data for a Bookkeeping Clerk shows a range from $41,390 to $51,890, indicating a viable career path. With experience and skills, clerks can advance to higher-paying roles in finance and accounting, making it a potential stepping stone rather than a final destination.
While the average salary for a bookkeeping clerk ranges from approximately $41,390 to $51,890, achieving a $100,000 income as a bookkeeper is possible, particularly for those who own successful bookkeeping firms or specialize in high-demand areas. However, this level of income is not typical for most clerks in the field.
On average, Bookkeepers generally work around 40 hours per week, aligning with standard full-time schedules. Their salaries range from $41,390 to $51,890, with a median of $45,990. However, workload can fluctuate with financial cycles, tax season, or fiscal year-ends, potentially requiring additional hours.
As a bookkeeper, you should consider charging between $41,390 and $51,890 annually, depending on your experience, the complexity of the work, and the specific services you offer. This range reflects the typical salary for bookkeeping clerks, ensuring your rates are competitive and aligned with industry standards.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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