Uncovering the World of Accounting: A Closer Look at Salaries Across the US
As we continue our journey to provide in-depth insights into various careers, we’re excited to shift our focus to the world of accounting. With a vast array of options available to new graduates, we’ve narrowed down our scope to entry-level and mid-level positions in the public sector.
Why Public Accounting?
Experts agree that starting your career in public accounting can be a game-changer. It not only provides a solid foundation for future growth but also confers instant credibility, making it an essential first step for many aspiring accountants.
The Role of an Accountant
So, what does being an accountant entail? At its core, the primary task of accountants is to prepare and examine financial records, ensuring accuracy and timely tax payments. They also perform overviews of a business’s financial operations to help it run efficiently.
Salary Breakdown: Entry-Level Staff Accounting Jobs in the Public Sector
- National Average Salary: $53,483
- Degree Required: A Bachelor’s degree
- Opportunities for advancement/promotion: Plenty of room for growth, with the option to earn a CPA license by passing an exam and meeting state eligibility requirements.
Regional Salary Variations
From coast to coast, salaries for entry-level staff accountants in the public sector vary significantly. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect in different cities across the US:
West Coast
- Los Angeles, CA: $55,926
- San Francisco, CA: $56,259
- Seattle, WA: $70,000 (Senior Accountant)
- Portland, OR: $48,634
- San Diego, CA: $43,950
Northeast
- New York City, NY: $56,387
- Philadelphia, PA: $50,560
- Albany, NY: $47,425
- Washington, DC: $54,117
- Newark, NJ: $76,061 (Senior Accountant)
- Baltimore, MD: $50,121
- Middletown, DE: $50,560
- Pittsburgh, PA: $45,719
New England
- Boston, MA: $52,702
- Bridgeport, CT: $55,000
- Manchester, NH: $47,942
- New Haven, CT: $63,003 (Senior Accountant)
- Stamford, CT: $55,000
Midwest
- Chicago, IL: $49,767
- Detroit, MI: $51,560
- Columbus, OH: $47,873
- Denver, CO: $68,480 (Senior Accountant)
- Salt Lake City, UT: $47,490
- Indianapolis, IN: $50,661
- Grand Rapids, MI: $39,762
- Omaha, NE: $46,202
- Cleveland, OH: $49,480
Southwest
- Phoenix, AZ: $48,884
- Las Vegas, NV: $42,672
- Tucson, AZ: $48,677
- Houston, TX: $74,885 (Senior Accountant)
- Austin, TX: $46,000
- Dallas, TX: $47,752
Southeast
- Atlanta, GA: $48,998
- Louisville, KY: $43,300
- Miami, FL: $67,693 (Senior Accountant)
- Raleigh, NC: $46,181
- Orlando, FL: $46,736
- Memphis, TN: $46,795
- Jacksonville, FL: $61,829 (Senior Accountant)
Share Your Thoughts!
What fields and positions would you like to see featured in our next salary roundup? Leave your suggestions in the comment section below!
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