What is the richest type of accountant?
Key Facts
- Audit Partners earn an average of $285,000 annually, making it the highest-paying accounting role in the US.
- Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) command an average base salary of $204,000 per year in the United States.
- Vice Presidents of Finance earn an average of $193,000 annually, with demand rising in healthcare and real estate.
- 71% of organizations currently use AI in financial operations, with 41% applying it significantly or moderately.
- Risk Management Directors average $194,000 per year, primarily in high-stakes sectors like banking and energy.
- Chief Accounting Officers (CAOs) earn an average of $197,000 annually, typically within large public companies.
- AI is transforming accountants from number-crunchers to strategic advisors, driving demand for automation and data analytics skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of accountant makes the most money?
The highest-earning accountants are typically in executive or leadership roles such as Audit Partner, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Chief Accounting Officer (CAO), with average salaries ranging from $193,000 to $285,000 annually in the US.
Is being a CFO really more lucrative than other accounting jobs?
Yes, CFOs earn an average base salary of $204,000 per year in the US, making it one of the top-paying accounting roles, especially in large or publicly traded companies where strategic financial oversight is critical.
Do accountants in big firms make more than those in small businesses?
Generally, yes—roles like Audit Partner at Big Four or boutique firms often include equity and command higher pay, with average salaries reaching $285,000, compared to more operational roles in SMBs that tend to pay less.
Can AI help accountants move into higher-paying strategic roles?
Yes, AI automates manual tasks like data entry and reconciliations, freeing accountants to focus on strategic work like forecasting and compliance—skills that are essential for high-paying roles such as CFO or Risk Management Director.
What skills do top-earning accountants need besides accounting knowledge?
High-earning accountants increasingly need expertise in AI, data analytics, risk management, and compliance, along with leadership abilities to drive strategic decisions in industries like tech, finance, and healthcare.
Are there high-paying accounting roles in small or midsize businesses?
Yes, while salaries may be lower than at large firms, roles like Controller or VP of Finance in manufacturing, healthcare, or real estate can still reach $193,000 annually, especially when paired with strategic and technology integration responsibilities.