How much does a Staff Accountant make?
A Staff Accountant often finds themselves in various environments, from small businesses to large corporations. This role requires strong attention to detail and a solid understanding of financial principles. The average yearly salary for a Staff Accountant stands at $67,900, providing a stable income for many professionals in this field.
The salary range for Staff Accountants can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the company. Entry-level positions may start around $41,000 annually, while experienced accountants in managerial roles can earn upwards of $111,000 per year. Some key factors that influence salary include:
- Experience
- Location
- Type of industry
- Additional certifications (e.g., CPA)
Overall, a career as a Staff Accountant offers competitive compensation and opportunities for growth.
What are the highest paying cities for a Staff Accountant?

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College Station, TX
Average Salary: $106,613
In College Station, accountants often work with well-known companies like Texas A&M University. The job offers a chance to contribute to the financial health of educational institutions. The environment is collaborative, with a focus on community and innovation.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $96,559
San Jose is home to tech giants like Intel and eBay, where accountants play a crucial role in managing financial operations. Working here means being part of a fast-paced, dynamic industry. Opportunities for growth and learning are plentiful.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $86,775
Stamford offers a blend of corporate and financial firms. Companies like United Technologies and Charter Communications provide diverse opportunities. Working here means dealing with a mix of industries, from aerospace to communications.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $86,691
San Francisco’s financial sector is bustling with tech companies like Salesforce and Uber. Accountants here enjoy working in a tech-savvy environment. The job offers challenges and rewards in equal measure.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $77,942
Los Angeles has a vibrant economy with opportunities in entertainment and media. Working for companies like Warner Bros. provides a unique experience. The city’s diverse industries offer a rich tapestry of financial work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $76,832
Seattle is known for tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft. Accountants enjoy a fast-paced and innovative work environment. The city offers a blend of nature and technology, making it an exciting place to work.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $76,631
Stockton offers a smaller city feel with opportunities in finance and agriculture. Companies like C&B Financial Services and the City of Stockton provide diverse financial challenges. It’s an ideal place for those who prefer a community-oriented job setting.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $76,535
In Washington, DC, accountants often work with government agencies and nonprofits. Working for organizations like the World Bank provides a chance to make a global impact. The city’s political environment adds an extra layer of responsibility to the role.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $75,481
Boston offers a mix of finance and education. Working for firms like State Street Corporation and educational institutions like Harvard University provides diverse experiences. The city’s rich history and culture add to the job’s appeal.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $75,149
San Diego offers a blend of tech and military opportunities. Companies like Qualcomm and the various military bases provide diverse financial roles. The city’s pleasant climate and beautiful surroundings make it a great place to live and work.
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What are the best companies a Staff Accountant can work for?

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UHY LLP
Average Salary: $148,942
UHY LLP offers rewarding Staff Accountant positions. The company has multiple offices across the U.S. They focus on tax, audit, and advisory services. UHY LLP values detailed work and teamwork. You will find them in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
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CliftonLarsonAllen
Average Salary: $139,341
CliftonLarsonAllen provides excellent opportunities for Staff Accountants. They are a large firm with offices nationwide. Their accountants work on audits and tax services. Locations include Chicago, Los Angeles, and Houston. They offer strong career growth.
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EY
Average Salary: $128,193
EY is a global leader offering competitive Staff Accountant salaries. They have offices in many major cities. EY focuses on audit, tax, and consulting services. Accountants here enjoy diverse projects and a supportive environment.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $96,973
Amentum provides promising roles for Staff Accountants. This company works in defense and government sectors. They offer roles in various U.S. cities. Staff here handle financial reporting and budgeting with great attention to detail.
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Roechling Industrial Gastonia
Average Salary: $95,000
Roechling Industrial Gastonia offers stable positions for Staff Accountants. They focus on manufacturing and metal processing. Locations are in South Carolina and Georgia. The company values accuracy and efficiency in financial tasks.
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JumpCloud
Average Salary: $95,000
JumpCloud provides innovative opportunities for Staff Accountants. They specialize in cloud directory services. Their offices are in Denver and Boston. JumpCloud emphasizes teamwork and modern technology in their work.
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EchoStar
Average Salary: $92,815
EchoStar offers rewarding roles for Staff Accountants. They focus on satellite communications. Locations include Colorado and Virginia. EchoStar values financial accuracy and attention to detail in every task.
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Baker Tilly
Average Salary: $91,759
Baker Tilly provides excellent Staff Accountant positions. They offer audit, tax, and advisory services. Offices are across the U.S. Baker Tilly focuses on professional development and client service.
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Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC
Average Salary: $91,121
Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC offers rewarding Staff Accountant roles. They focus on audit and tax services. Locations include Maryland and Virginia. They value accuracy and teamwork in every task.
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Leeds Professional Resources
Average Salary: $90,208
Leeds Professional Resources provides promising Staff Accountant positions. They focus on staffing solutions for accounting roles. Offices are in multiple states. They offer a supportive environment and good career growth.
How to earn more as a Staff Accountant?
A Staff Accountant can take several steps to earn more in their role. Improving skills and gaining experience leads to higher pay. Strong knowledge in accounting software and financial reporting makes one more valuable. Staying current with industry trends and regulations also helps. Building a strong professional network opens doors to new opportunities.
Earning additional certifications can significantly boost a Staff Accountant's salary. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is highly respected. Other certifications like Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Enrolled Agent (EA) can also be beneficial. These credentials show a commitment to the profession and a deeper understanding of financial principles.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Gain relevant experience and improve skills
- Stay updated with industry trends and regulations
- Earn additional certifications (CPA, CMA, EA)
- Build a strong professional network
- Consider advancing to a higher role, like Senior Accountant or Accounting Manager



