Accountant pay
What accountants earn — and keep — in 2026
Accounting is a stable, credential-driven profession with a clear pay ladder. The BLS puts the median accountant and auditor at $81,680 (May 2024). A CPA license, public-accounting experience and a move from staff to manager to controller each step up earnings — the highest 10% clear $138,000.
Where an accountant's paycheck goes
On the $81,680 median, a single accountant pays federal income tax in the 12%–22% brackets after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. Maxing a pre-tax 401(k) is a common, effective move to reduce taxable income — enter your contribution in the pre-tax field.
The highest-paying states for accountants
Pay runs highest in New York, California, New Jersey and Massachusetts. These are also higher-tax states, so a Texas or Washington role at a similar salary can deliver more net pay — compare take-home before you decide.
Compare accounting with other careers
See how accountant pay compares with a software engineer or registered nurse, or check your exact net in Texas.
Questions
Accountant Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does an accountant make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $81,680 for accountants and auditors (May 2024). Pay rises with a CPA license, public-accounting (Big Four) experience, and progression to controller or CFO. The top 10% of accountants and auditors earn over $138,000.
What is an accountant's take-home pay on $81,680?
A single accountant earning the $81,680 median takes home roughly $63,000 to $64,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, less where state tax applies. Busy-season overtime in public accounting is taxable but lifts gross and net pay.
Does becoming a CPA increase salary?
Yes — significantly. CPAs typically earn 10%–15% more than non-licensed accountants and have a clearer path into senior and management roles. Many firms also pay bonuses tied to the busy season. Enter your actual salary, including bonus, to see the full take-home picture.
Which states pay accountants the most?
Accountants earn the highest average pay in New York, California, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Washington D.C. — finance and corporate hubs. New York and California levy substantial income tax, so a slightly lower salary in a no-tax state like Texas or Washington can net more take-home.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Accountants and Auditors (median $81,680, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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