Accounting Assistant Salary: How Much Do They Earn in 2025?
An Accounting Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting financial operations, handling bookkeeping, processing invoices, and managing financial records. If you are considering a career as an Accounting Assistant, understanding salary expectations can help you make informed career decisions.
How Much Does an Accounting Assistant Make?
As of 2025, the average salary for an Accounting Assistant in the United States varies based on experience, location, and industry.
- Hourly Wage: Approximately $21.28 per hour.
- Annual Salary: Around $41,587 per year.
These figures represent median earnings and can fluctuate depending on specific factors such as employer size, location, and level of experience.
Accounting Assistant Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-1 years) | $17 โ $20 | $35,000 โ $42,000 |
| Mid-Level (2-5 years) | $20 โ $25 | $42,000 โ $52,000 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | $25 โ $30+ | $52,000 โ $60,000+ |
- Entry-Level Accounting Assistants usually start at a lower salary but can quickly increase their earnings with experience and additional certifications.
- Mid-Level professionals who have gained skills in financial reporting and bookkeeping tend to earn higher wages.
- Experienced Accounting Assistants with advanced accounting software knowledge and payroll processing experience can earn salaries above $60,000 per year in some regions.
Accounting Assistant Salary by Industry
The industry you work in can significantly impact your salary as an Accounting Assistant.
| Industry | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Public Accounting | $42,000 โ $55,000 |
| Corporate Finance | $40,000 โ $50,000 |
| Government & Nonprofits | $38,000 โ $48,000 |
| Healthcare | $43,000 โ $54,000 |
| Retail & E-commerce | $38,000 โ $47,000 |
- Healthcare and Public Accounting sectors tend to offer the highest salaries, often with better benefits.
- Government and nonprofit organizations may offer lower salaries but provide job security and good benefits.
- Retail and corporate finance positions generally offer stable salaries with room for growth.
Best-Paying Cities for Accounting Assistants
Location plays a major role in determining an Accounting Assistantโs salary.
| City | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| New York, NY | $50,000 โ $60,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $52,000 โ $65,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $45,000 โ $55,000 |
| Houston, TX | $42,000 โ $50,000 |
| Miami, FL | $40,000 โ $48,000 |
- Major cities such as New York and San Francisco offer higher salaries but come with a higher cost of living.
- Midwestern and Southern cities, like Houston and Miami, offer competitive salaries with lower living costs.
How to Increase Your Salary as an Accounting Assistant
1. Gain More Experience
The more years you work in accounting, the higher your earning potential. Seek opportunities to work on financial reports, budgeting, and tax preparation to increase your value to employers.
2. Obtain Certifications
Certifications can boost your salary by 10-20%. Consider:
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB) โ Offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).
- Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) โ Recognized globally and enhances career growth.
- QuickBooks Certification โ Essential for those working with small businesses.
3. Learn Accounting Software
Proficiency in QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Excel can make you a more valuable employee and lead to a higher salary.
4. Work in High-Paying Industries
If possible, seek jobs in public accounting, healthcare, or financial services, as these industries tend to offer higher salaries than retail or government positions.
5. Relocate to Higher-Paying Cities
If you are open to moving, cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago offer significantly higher wages for accounting roles.
Job Outlook for Accounting Assistants
The demand for Accounting Assistants remains strong, with job openings expected to grow by 5-7% through 2030. As businesses continue to expand, the need for skilled accounting professionals will increase.
With automation and AI transforming the accounting industry, assistants who develop data analysis and financial software skills will have a competitive edge in the job market.
Final Thoughts
The salary of an Accounting Assistant depends on experience, location, industry, and certifications. While the average salary is around $41,587 per year, those with more experience, specialized skills, and certifications can earn above $60,000. By gaining additional qualifications and experience, Accounting Assistants can transition into higher-paying roles such as Staff Accountant, Payroll Specialist, or Financial Analyst.
