Accountant Salary in Philadelphia, PA: $83,738 (2024)

The median accountant salary in Philadelphia, PA is $83,738 per year ($40.26/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $54,943 for entry-level positions to $120,623 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level accountants in Philadelphia, PA typically start at around $54,943 per year ($26.41/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $83,738 within 3-5 years.

Accountants in Philadelphia, PA earn a median hourly wage of $40.26 per hour. Hourly rates range from $26.41/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $57.99/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $54,943 and $120,623.

The median accountant salary of $83,738 in Philadelphia, PA is above the national median of $79,880 (4.8% higher). This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of accountants in the area earn more and half earn less.

Accountants in Philadelphia, PA earn above the national average. The local median salary of $83,738 is 4.8% higher than the national median of $79,880. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $80,363.

The top 10% of accountants in Philadelphia, PA earn $120,623 or more per year ($57.99/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $103,449, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost accountant salary in Philadelphia, PA include: Strong analytical and mathematical abilities, Attention to detail and accuracy, Proficiency in accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle), Knowledge of tax laws and financial regulations. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $83,738, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($103,449) or higher. CPA certification typically increases salary by 10-15%

Philadelphia, PA has a moderate job market for accountants, with approximately 1,376 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $83,738 is above the national average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your accountant salary to these Philadelphia, PA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $54,943, 25th percentile: $68,992, 50th percentile (median): $83,738, 75th percentile: $103,449, 90th percentile (top earners): $120,623. If you earn more than $83,738, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $83,738 median base salary, accountants in Philadelphia, PA typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced accountants with 5-10 years in Philadelphia, PA typically earn $103,449 (75th percentile) to $120,623 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $120,623. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $83,738.

Accountants in Philadelphia, PA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($54,943) to median ($83,738) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($120,623) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $65,680 over a career.