CPA – Certified Public Accountant
CPA – Certified Public Accountant salary
What people holding this certification commonly earn, the roles it supports, and how it compares with related certifications.
A range, not a promise. Individual pay depends on the factors below.
What changes the number
The same certification pays differently for an analyst, an engineer and a manager.
Pay varies widely between countries and between cities in the same country.
Certifications add the most on top of hands-on work you can show.
Large firms and regulated industries often pay more for certified staff.
Roles that use CPA – Certified Public Accountant
Salary compared with other Finance & Accounting certifications
| Certification | Level | Typical salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA – Certified Public Accountant | Advanced | $70K–$130K |
| CFA Level I – Chartered Financial Analyst | Beginner | $80K–$120K |
| ACCA – Association of Chartered Certified Accountants | Intermediate | £40K–£80K |
| CFA Level II – Chartered Financial Analyst | Intermediate | $100K–$150K |
| CMA – Certified Management Accountant | Intermediate | $85K–$130K |
| CAIA – Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst | Advanced | $120K–$180K |
| CFA Level III – Chartered Financial Analyst | Advanced | $130K–$200K |
| FRM – Financial Risk Manager | Advanced | $110K–$160K |
CPA – Certified Public Accountant salary questions
How much do CPA – Certified Public Accountant certified professionals earn?
Reported pay for CPA – Certified Public Accountant holders is commonly in the $70K–$130K range. Your own pay depends on role, location, employer and total experience.
Which jobs use CPA – Certified Public Accountant?
Common roles include Certified Public Accountant, Audit Manager, Tax Director, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Analyst, Advisory Consultant.
Will CPA – Certified Public Accountant guarantee a pay rise?
No certification guarantees a raise. It tends to help most when you are applying for a new role or a promotion, alongside real experience you can show.