Accountant vs Bookkeeper Salary
Side-by-side salary comparison for Accountant and Bookkeeper — national medians, pay ranges, and city-by-city data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Accountants earn more nationally
$81,680 median vs $49,210 — a $32,470/yr difference (40% lower)
Median Salary
$81,680
Salary Range
$52,780 – $141,420
10th–90th percentile
Median Salary
$49,210
Salary Range
$34,600 – $72,660
10th–90th percentile
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Accountant or Bookkeeper pay more?▾
Accountants earn more nationally, with a median salary of $81,680 versus $49,210 for Bookkeeper. That's a difference of about $32,470 per year.
What's the salary range for a Accountant vs a Bookkeeper?▾
Accountant salaries range from $52,780 (10th percentile) to $141,420 (90th percentile). Bookkeeper salaries range from $34,600 to $72,660.
Which career has more growth potential — Accountant or Bookkeeper?▾
Salary growth depends on experience, specialization, location, and industry sector. Both roles show strong upper-quartile earnings. Check city-by-city data above — in some metros one role significantly outpaces the other, which often reflects local industry demand and competition.