Accountant Salary by State & Experience 2025 | USA

Discover the latest trends in accountant salary by state across the USA.

California vs National Average:
Accountant Salary by State Trends (2005-2024)

Customize Your Accountant Salary by State Comparison

This interactive chart compares accountant salary by state over the past two decades, highlighting how experience and location impact earnings compared to the national average.

Compare average pay levels from 2005 to 2024, adjusted for experience (0-5, 5-10, 10-20, 20+ years), and see how your state stacks up against the national average. This comprehensive guide to accountant salary by state helps with career planning, relocation decisions, and salary negotiations.

Key Insights on Accountant Salary by State

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New York and California lead in accountant salary by state due to major corporate and financial services presence.

Certification Impact

CPA-certified accountants earn 20-40% more than non-certified peers across most states.

Steady Growth

Accountant compensation has shown reliable annual increases, driven by regulatory complexity.

Industry Variation

Public accounting and corporate finance roles typically pay more than government or non-profit positions.

National Trends

The national average accountant salary has risen steadily with demand for financial expertise.

Future Outlook

By 2025, automation and advisory roles are expected to influence accountant salary by state distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accountant Salary by State

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Understanding Accountant Salaries Across U.S. States

Accountant compensation varies across the United States due to differences in cost of living, industry concentration, and demand for financial expertise. As businesses prioritize compliance and strategic planning, accountants remain essential professionals in every sector.

Historical Salary Trends (2005–2024)

Over the past two decades, average accountant pay has shown steady growth, with stronger increases in states with major corporate headquarters and financial services.

Regional Compensation Differences

High-cost states like California, New York, and Massachusetts typically offer above-average salaries. States with growing business sectors, such as Texas and Georgia, also provide competitive pay.

How Experience Impacts Earnings

Experience and certifications (CPA, CMA) significantly boost compensation. Mid-career and senior accountants with specialized skills earn substantially more than entry-level roles.

Using This Tool

This interactive tool helps visualize long-term salary patterns by state and experience level, supporting informed decisions about job offers, relocation, or career advancement in accounting.

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