Accountant Salary in San Francisco, CA: $107,216 (2024)
Official 2024 BLS Data | $51.55/hour | $72,468 - $150,345 range
Median Annual Salary
$107,216
Hourly Rate
$51.55
/hour
Jobs in Area
1,812
employed
Compare to Other Cities
See All →San Francisco, CA
$107,216
San Jose, CA
$108,908
in San Jose, CA
Accountant Salary Range in San Francisco, CA
Annual Salary Range
$72k
10th percentile
$89k
25th
$127k
75th
$150k
90th percentile
Salary Breakdown by Percentile
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $72,468 | $34.84 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,043 | $42.81 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $107,216 | $51.55 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,145 | $61.13 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $150,345 | $72.28 |
| Average (Mean) | $116,354 | $55.94 |
Accountant Market Insights for San Francisco, CA
Compensation Overview
Accountants in San Francisco, CA are among the highest paid in both the nation and California. This premium reflects the competitive local market and strong demand from employers seeking top talent in the region.
Local Market Context
San Francisco, CA is a high cost-of-living metro area, which typically correlates with higher nominal salaries. While wages may appear higher, purchasing power should be carefully evaluated against housing, transportation, and everyday expenses in the California market.
Cost of Living Impact
Cost of living adjustments reduce effective purchasing power by approximately 41% compared to national averages. When evaluating opportunities in San Francisco, CA, factor in higher expenses for housing and daily necessities.
Career Outlook
The Accountant profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 107% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.
Tips for Increasing Your Salary
- •Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 40% more than median salaries
- •Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
- •Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise
+34%
vs National Avg
+31%
vs State Avg
107%
Salary Range
1,812
Jobs in Area
Career Path & Salary Progression
Typical Accountant salary growth in San Francisco, CA based on experience level.
Entry Level
0-2 years10th percentile
$72,468
/year
Early Career
2-5 years25th percentile
$89,043
/year
Mid Career
5-10 years50th percentile
$107,216
/year
Senior
10-15 years75th percentile
$127,145
/year
Expert
15+ years90th percentile
$150,345
/year
Next Career Steps
Common career progressions from Accountant:
Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.
Accountant Job Market in San Francisco, CA
Where Accountants Work
Accountants work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.
Local Employment Landscape
The San Francisco, CA area maintains a healthy employment base for this occupation, with opportunities distributed across multiple employers. This provides job stability and career mobility without the intense competition found in major metros.
Types of Employers Hiring
Large Corporations
Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential
Small to Medium Businesses
May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities
Government Agencies
Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance
Professional Services Firms
Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers
Skills That Increase Earning Potential
Job Search Strategy for San Francisco, CA
- •Research major employers in the San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
- •Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to California
- •Tailor your salary expectations based on the San Francisco, CA market rate of $107,216
- •Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $72,468 in this market
Accountant Career Overview in San Francisco, CA
The job market for Accountants in San Francisco, CA is moderate, with approximately 1,812 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Accountant positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in San Francisco, CA. Employers here pay a premium of 34% above the national median, signaling strong local demand that outpaces supply.
San Francisco, CA's diverse economy supports business & finance roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in California range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.
The growth outlook for Accountant positions in San Francisco, CA is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 1,812 current positions and a median salary of $107,216, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of San Francisco, CA's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Accountants will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.
When comparing San Francisco, CA to other metros for Accountant careers, the high cost of living (index: 169.3) is an important factor. The nominal median salary of $107,216 translates to roughly $63,329 in purchasing power after adjusting for local costs. This means that despite the higher paycheck, Accountants here may find their dollars stretch less far than peers in more affordable metros. Professionals weighing relocation should run a full cost-of-living comparison that accounts for housing, taxes, transportation, and childcare before making a decision based on salary alone.
The Business & Finance field in San Francisco, CA benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Accountants stay connected and advance their careers. California's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Accountants early in their career, San Francisco, CA offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.
Accountant Compensation Deep Dive in San Francisco, CA
The salary range for Accountants in San Francisco, CA spans from $72,468 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $150,345 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $77,877. This 107% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $107,216 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Accountant with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($89,043) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($127,145) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.
Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Accountants in San Francisco, CA. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $4,289 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Accountants should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $89,043 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $107,216 with minimal perks.
Cost of living directly impacts how far a Accountant's salary goes in San Francisco, CA. With a local cost-of-living index of 169.3 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $107,216 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $63,329 in an average-cost U.S. city. This means everyday expenses, especially housing, consume a larger share of income here. Accountants should factor in rent or mortgage costs (which may account for 30-40% of gross income) when evaluating offers.
Negotiating Accountant compensation in San Francisco, CA requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($89,043 to $127,145) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, employers already pay above-average rates, so negotiation gains may be more incremental. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Accountants in this market earn between $35 and $72 per hour, with the median at $52.
Accountant Career Path & Growth in San Francisco, CA
The career trajectory for Accountants in San Francisco, CA shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $72,468, while top earners reach $150,345, representing a 2.1x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In San Francisco, CA's business & finance market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.
Accountants in San Francisco, CA who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In San Francisco, CA's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.
The skills most in demand for Accountants in San Francisco, CA include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in San Francisco, CA value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Accountants stay competitive in San Francisco, CA's evolving job market.
More Questions About Accountant Salaries in San Francisco, CA
What is the starting salary for a Accountant in San Francisco, CA?
Entry-level Accountants in San Francisco, CA (10th percentile) earn approximately $72,468 per year, or about $6,039 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $89,043. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.
How much do experienced Accountants make in San Francisco, CA?
Experienced Accountants at the 75th percentile earn $127,145 annually in San Francisco, CA, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $150,345. The jump from median ($107,216) to 75th percentile represents a 19% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.
Is San Francisco, CA a good city for Accountants?
San Francisco, CA pays Accountants well above the national average (34% more), making it an attractive market for this profession. With 1,812 Accountant positions in the metro area, there are solid opportunities across several major employers. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.
How does Accountant pay in San Francisco, CA compare to the national average?
The median Accountant salary in San Francisco, CA is $107,216, which is 34% higher than the national median of $79,880. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $63,329, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within California, San Francisco, CA ranks among the higher-paying metros for this occupation.
What benefits do Accountants typically receive in San Francisco, CA?
Beyond base salary, Accountants in San Francisco, CA typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Accountant earning the median of $107,216 may receive total compensation of $139,381 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.
What skills are most in demand for Accountants in San Francisco, CA?
Accountants in San Francisco, CA who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Business & Finance field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
The median accountant salary in San Francisco, CA is $107,216 per year ($51.55/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $72,468 for entry-level positions to $150,345 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.
Entry-level accountants in San Francisco, CA typically start at around $72,468 per year ($34.84/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 $107,216 within 3-5 years.
Accountants in San Francisco, CA earn a median hourly wage of $51.55 per hour. Hourly rates range from $34.84/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $72.28/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $72,468 and $150,345.
The median accountant salary of $107,216 in San Francisco, CA is significantly above the national median of $79,880 (34.2% higher). However, the cost of living is 69% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of accountants in the area earn more and half earn less.
Accountants in San Francisco, CA earn significantly above the national average. The local median salary of $107,216 is 34.2% higher than the national median of $79,880. However, the cost of living is 69% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $63,329.
The top 10% of accountants in San Francisco, CA earn $150,345 or more per year ($72.28/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $127,145, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.
Key skills that can boost accountant salary in San Francisco, CA 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 $107,216, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($127,145) or higher. CPA certification typically increases salary by 10-15%
San Francisco, CA has a moderate job market for accountants, with approximately 1,812 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $107,216 is significantly above the national average. However, the cost of living is 69% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.
Compare your accountant salary to these San Francisco, CA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $72,468, 25th percentile: $89,043, 50th percentile (median): $107,216, 75th percentile: $127,145, 90th percentile (top earners): $150,345. If you earn more than $107,216, you're above average for the area.
Beyond the $107,216 median base salary, accountants in San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA typically earn $127,145 (75th percentile) to $150,345 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $150,345. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $107,216.
Accountants in San Francisco, CA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($72,468) to median ($107,216) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($150,345) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $77,877 over a career.
Data Source & Methodology
Official government statistics you can trust
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program
Visit Official BLS WebsiteData Year
2024
2 Years Old
Geographic Area
San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley
Metropolitan Statistical Area
Occupation Code
13-2011
SOC Classification
Sample Size
1,812
Employees Surveyed
How This Data Is Collected
The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.
Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.
Last updated: January 23, 2026
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Accountant in San Francisco, CA
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Median: $107,216/yr
How San Francisco, CA Compares
vs National Average
$79,880
vs California Average
$82,177
Cost-of-Living Adjusted
$63,329
Cost of living in San Francisco, CA is 69.3% above the national average.
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