How much does a Bookkeeper make?
Bookkeepers play a vital role in managing financial records for businesses. They ensure that all financial transactions are accurately recorded. This job is essential for keeping a company's finances in order. The average yearly salary for a bookkeeper is around $50,608. This figure can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for bookkeepers can differ widely. The lowest 10% earn about $30,710 per year. The highest 10% earn over $82,000 annually. Most bookkeepers fall somewhere in between these two figures. Factors like education, certifications, and the type of employer can also affect earnings. For instance, bookkeepers who work for larger companies may earn more than those in smaller firms. Those with additional skills, such as accounting or tax preparation, may also see higher pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Bookkeeper?

-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $68,798
In San Francisco, financial roles thrive in a bustling tech hub. Companies like Salesforce and Uber offer dynamic environments. Professionals here manage complex financial systems with ease.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $64,252
Chicago boasts a strong financial sector with major firms like Boeing and McDonald's. Bookkeepers here handle diverse financial tasks. The city's vibrant economy provides many opportunities.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $62,968
Stamford is home to financial giants like Charter Communications and United Technologies. Bookkeepers here work in well-established companies. The city offers a mix of corporate and local business opportunities.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Stamford, CT
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $62,522
Santa Rosa offers a quieter pace with a focus on local businesses. Companies like Charles Schwab and Sonoma International Film Festival need bookkeepers. It's a great place for those who prefer a less hectic environment.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $62,049
Seattle's tech boom means bookkeepers work in innovative companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's fast-paced environment offers many growth opportunities. Financial roles here are both challenging and rewarding.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $60,352
Los Angeles has a diverse job market with opportunities in entertainment and tech. Companies like Disney and Warner Bros. need bookkeepers. The city's dynamic nature keeps professionals engaged.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $59,678
Birmingham offers a mix of industries, from healthcare to finance. Companies like Regions Financial Corporation and BBVA USA provide stable roles. Bookkeepers here enjoy a balanced work environment.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Birmingham, AL
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $59,311
Sacramento is the political hub of California, offering unique financial opportunities. Government and non-profit sectors need bookkeepers. The city provides a stable and fulfilling work environment.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $59,291
Boston's rich history and education sector create a unique job market. Companies like Fidelity Investments and State Street Corporation offer diverse roles. Bookkeepers here benefit from a strong professional network.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in Boston, MA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $58,451
San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley, offering many tech-related opportunities. Companies like Intel and Cisco Systems need bookkeepers. The city's fast-paced tech environment is ideal for dynamic professionals.
Find Bookkeeper jobs in San Jose, CA
What are the best companies a Bookkeeper can work for?

-
Personnel People
Average Salary: $78,571
Personnel People offers rewarding Bookkeeper jobs with a focus on employee satisfaction. They are located in major cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Their team values accuracy and efficiency, making it a great place for bookkeepers to grow.
-
CyberCoders
Average Salary: $75,893
CyberCoders provides Bookkeeper positions with competitive salaries. They operate in tech-centric cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and Austin. CyberCoders emphasizes innovation and offers opportunities for career advancement.
-
UHY LLP
Average Salary: $73,186
UHY LLP offers Bookkeeper jobs with a strong focus on professional development. They have offices in cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, and Miami. UHY LLP values teamwork and provides a supportive work environment.
-
Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $71,200
Goodwin Recruiting provides Bookkeeper positions with a good salary package. They are located in key financial hubs like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. Goodwin Recruiting offers a dynamic work environment and opportunities for growth.
-
Kforce
Average Salary: $66,964
Kforce offers Bookkeeper jobs with a competitive salary. They operate in major cities such as Atlanta, Denver, and Minneapolis. Kforce values diversity and provides a collaborative work culture.
-
Synergy Staffing Services
Average Salary: $66,890
Synergy Staffing Services provides Bookkeeper positions with a solid salary. They have offices in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Phoenix. Synergy Staffing Services offers a supportive environment and opportunities for professional growth.
-
Slater Slater Schulman LLP
Average Salary: $66,875
Slater Slater Schulman LLP offers Bookkeeper jobs with a good salary. They are located in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The company offers a dynamic work environment and opportunities for career advancement.
-
The Tenants Law Firm
Average Salary: $65,000
The Tenants Law Firm provides Bookkeeper positions with a competitive salary. They operate in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. The firm values accuracy and offers a supportive work environment.
-
Aston Carter
Average Salary: $63,609
Aston Carter offers Bookkeeper jobs with a good salary. They are located in major cities such as Boston, New York, and San Francisco. Aston Carter provides a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
-
KBW Financial Staffing & Recruiting
Average Salary: $63,567
KBW Financial Staffing & Recruiting offers Bookkeeper positions with a solid salary. They operate in financial hubs like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. The company values teamwork and offers a supportive work culture.
How to earn more as a Bookkeeper?
A bookkeeper can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized skills can lead to higher-paying positions. For example, expertise in tax preparation or payroll management often commands higher salaries. Another way to earn more is by obtaining professional certifications. Certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Bookkeeper (CB) can make a bookkeeper more attractive to employers.
Experience and reputation also play a crucial role in earning potential. Bookkeepers with a strong track record and positive reviews can negotiate higher wages. Networking within the industry can open doors to better job opportunities. Attending industry events and joining professional organizations can help build connections. Lastly, seeking out freelance or contract work can provide additional income streams. Many bookkeepers find that taking on extra projects can significantly boost their earnings.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a bookkeeper:
- Specialized skills
- Professional certifications
- Experience and reputation
- Networking and industry connections
- Freelance or contract work



