How much does a Staff Accountant make?
A Staff Accountant plays a key role in financial management. They handle tasks like preparing financial reports, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with tax laws. The average yearly salary for a Staff Accountant is around $67,291. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Staff Accountants often see their salaries increase with more experience. Entry-level positions may start at around $42,500 per year. As accountants gain more experience, their salaries can rise significantly. For example, those with over 10 years of experience might earn upwards of $101,591 annually. Location also plays a big role. Urban areas with higher living costs typically offer higher salaries to compensate.
What are the highest paying cities for a Staff Accountant?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $93,232
In San Jose, accounting roles thrive in tech companies. With giants like Intel and eBay, professionals enjoy dynamic work environments. The tech sector's growth offers many opportunities for career advancement.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $85,428
San Francisco presents a bustling financial hub. Working here means collaborating with major firms like Salesforce and Uber. The city's vibrant economy provides diverse career paths.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $85,131
Stamford offers a mix of corporate and financial opportunities. Companies like United Technologies and Charter Communications provide stable environments. The city's business culture is both professional and collaborative.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $79,747
Anchorage's accounting scene is growing. With firms like ConocoPhillips and Alaska Airlines, professionals find diverse roles. The city's unique setting offers a blend of urban and outdoor experiences.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $77,736
Los Angeles provides a vibrant market for accounting careers. Working here means engaging with companies like Disney and Sony. The city's diverse industries offer many opportunities for growth.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $77,213
Washington, DC, is a hub for government and finance. Professionals here work with entities like the World Bank and various federal agencies. The city's political environment offers unique career paths.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $76,258
Seattle offers a tech-driven accounting landscape. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft create dynamic work settings. The city's innovative culture fosters professional growth.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $75,283
Stockton provides a stable environment for accounting roles. Working here means collaborating with local businesses and agricultural firms. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with professional opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $74,830
Boston's rich history in finance and education creates a strong accounting market. Working here means engaging with firms like Fidelity and Harvard. The city's academic influence offers many career development options.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $74,195
Minneapolis offers a blend of corporate and community-focused accounting roles. Companies like Target and U.S. Bank provide stable environments. The city's strong sense of community enhances professional experiences.
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What are the best companies a Staff Accountant can work for?

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EY
Average Salary: $136,968
EY offers exciting opportunities for Staff Accountants. They work in various locations, including New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. EY provides a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and development.
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CliftonLarsonAllen
Average Salary: $127,756
CliftonLarsonAllen is a great place for Staff Accountants. They operate in cities like Minneapolis, Denver, and Phoenix. The company values teamwork and offers a supportive work culture.
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University of California Los Angeles
Average Salary: $108,450
The University of California Los Angeles offers rewarding Staff Accountant roles. They are located in Los Angeles. Working here means contributing to a prestigious institution with a focus on education and research.
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ghj
Average Salary: $104,975
ghj provides diverse opportunities for Staff Accountants. They have offices in cities like Philadelphia, Boston, and Miami. The company offers a collaborative environment with a strong emphasis on client service.
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Valiant Staffing
Average Salary: $96,000
Valiant Staffing offers competitive salaries for Staff Accountants. They operate in various locations, including Dallas, Atlanta, and Seattle. The company focuses on providing excellent staffing solutions to clients.
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Roechling Industrial Gastonia
Average Salary: $95,000
Roechling Industrial Gastonia offers Staff Accountant positions with a strong salary. They are located in Gastonia, North Carolina. The company provides a stable work environment with opportunities for career advancement.
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JumpCloud
Average Salary: $95,000
JumpCloud offers exciting roles for Staff Accountants. They are based in Denver, Colorado. The company is known for its innovative approach and supportive work culture.
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EchoStar
Average Salary: $94,074
EchoStar provides opportunities for Staff Accountants in Englewood, Colorado. They offer a competitive salary and a supportive work environment focused on technology and innovation.
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J.S. Held
Average Salary: $93,732
J.S. Held offers Staff Accountant positions with a strong salary. They operate in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. The company provides a dynamic work environment with a focus on risk management.
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Dee Consulting
Average Salary: $93,333
Dee Consulting offers rewarding Staff Accountant roles. They are located in various cities, including Chicago and Austin. The company offers a collaborative environment with a focus on client satisfaction.
How to earn more as a Staff Accountant?
A Staff Accountant can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, they can enhance their value in the workplace. This can lead to higher pay and better job opportunities. One important step is to gain more experience in the field. Experience helps build a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices. It also allows for the development of specialized skills.
Another way to earn more is to pursue additional certifications. These can include certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). These credentials can make a Staff Accountant more attractive to employers. They show a commitment to professional development. They also open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Networking with other professionals can also lead to better job offers. Building a strong professional network can provide insights into higher-paying roles. It can also lead to recommendations and referrals. Staying updated with the latest accounting software and tools is also crucial. Proficiency in these tools can make a Staff Accountant more efficient and valuable.
Finally, seeking out leadership roles within the accounting department can lead to higher earnings. Taking on responsibilities such as managing a team or overseeing a project can demonstrate leadership skills. It can also make a Staff Accountant eligible for higher pay grades. By focusing on these areas, a Staff Accountant can significantly increase their earnings.
- Gain more experience in the field
- Pursue additional certifications
- Network with other professionals
- Stay updated with the latest accounting software and tools
- Seek out leadership roles within the accounting department



