How Much Does A CPA Earn In US, India & Big 4

The Certified Public Accountant qualification demonstrates a person’s ability in accounting and finance. It is a globally recognized credential that denotes a high degree of skill and compliance with ethical accounting principles.

Understanding CPA salaries globally is crucial for professionals seeking to navigate the dynamic landscape of the accounting world. Salaries not only reflect the value of the certification but also provide insights into the economic and professional standing of CPAs in different regions.

Average CPA Salaries in India & USA

For India, the mean remuneration for a CPA is around INR 6,88,538. Within the private sector, the typical annual salary for a CPA falls in the range of INR 6-9 lakhs, with compensation levels going up to 25 lakhs per annum. This variance is contingent on factors such as the industry and the individual’s level of experience.

In the United States, the Average pay for a CPA in the USA is $73,464. 

It’s crucial to recognize that these figures are influenced by multiple factors such as cost of living, currency exchange rates, education, and experience levels.

Also Read – A List of Changes in the US CPA Exam 2024

CPA Salaries in India Based on Job Profile

Specialized Skills

CPAs in India possessing specialized skills or domain-based knowledge command an average salary of INR 7,00,000. This emphasizes the value placed on expertise in specific areas within the accounting profession.

Assistant Finance Manager

The role of an Assistant Finance Manager in India attracts an average salary ranging from INR 4.5 LPA to INR 10 LPA, underlining the financial responsibility associated with managerial positions.

Also Read – What is CPA License & can A CPA practice in India?

CPAs in Top Companies

Top companies in India, such as ICICI Bank, YES Bank, Tata Capital, Muthoot Finance, and Kotak Mahindra Prime, offer average annual CPA salaries ranging from INR1,50,000 to INR 2,40,000, showcasing the diverse opportunities available in different sectors.

Based on Experience

The experience-based salary structure in India highlights the significant variation in CPA salaries, from entry-level earnings of 6 Lakhs per annum to experienced professionals in Big 4 MNCs earning between 12.5 Lakhs to 23 Lakhs per annum.

US CPA Salary in India

US CPAs working in India experience varying salaries based on industry, ranging from 6 LPA in education or training companies to 12 LPA in petrochemical companies. The salaries vary due to the sector-specific demands for accounting professionals.

Eager to start your CPA Journey? Did you know Proschool provides you with best in class CPA study material, live classes & placements support?

Fresher CPA Salaries

Fresher CPA Salary in India

The average salary is around INR 6 Lakhs per annum. This figure can vary based on factors such as city, company, and industry. Fresher CPA salaries in areas such as Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi can exceed INR 13.8 Lakhs per year. 

Fresher CPA Salary in the US

According to the AICPA report, the average CPA fresher pay in the United States is $66,000 per year. On the other end of the spectrum, fresher CPA income can average $70,000 to $80,000 per year due to differences depending on region, employer, and sector.

Experience-Based Salary in India & US

Salaries for CPAs rise dramatically as they gain expertise. In India, the range is between 6 lakhs per annum for entry-level professionals to 13.8 lakhs per annum in major cities. In the United States, CPAs with less than one year of experience earn an average of $70,000 a year.

Also Read – What Is the Total Cost of CPA in India?

Salary for CPA in Big 4’s in India & US

In India, CPAs in Big 4 firms earn between INR 12.5 LPA to INR 20.4 LPA, while in the US, the salary in Big 4 firms ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 per year. This highlights the prestige and financial rewards associated with working in these renowned firms.

Confused when to start preparing for CPA?

Conclusion

The Certified Public Accountant salaries in India and the United States are a complex and diverse field, influenced by experience, specialization, and global economic nuances. Entry-level CPAs’ salaries reflect their careers’ foundation, while seasoned professionals command remuneration reflecting their expertise. 

Salaries are dynamic entities shaped by factors like cost of living, currency exchange rates, educational backgrounds, and industry intricacies. Understanding CPA salaries requires an understanding of the variables that shape these figures.

FAQs

Do CPA salaries in India differ significantly between Indian cities?

Yes, CPA salaries in India can differ significantly between cities. Metropolitan areas such as Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi usually offer higher salaries due to the higher cost of living and the concentration of important financial institutions.

What factors determine a CPA’s salary in India and the United States?

The individual’s amount of experience, educational background, industry expertise, and geographical location of employment are all important influences. Furthermore, variations in CPA wages are influenced by currency exchange rates, economic situations, and employment market demands.

How do specialization and subject expertise affect CPA salaries in both countries?

Specialization and subject expertise are important factors in determining a CPA’s remuneration in both India and the United States. Because of the increased demand for their unique knowledge, CPAs with specialized skills, such as forensic accounting, tax planning, or audit experience, sometimes command greater compensation.

The depth of knowledge in a specific topic increases the CPA’s worth, resulting in more attractive pay packages. This development is evident in both nations, demonstrating the global acknowledgment of specific skill sets within the accounting profession.