Big 4 accounting firms pay accountants, consultants over $200K annually
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — Entry-level accountants and consultants can earn over $200,000 annually from the “Big Four” accounting firms — Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), KPMG, and Ernst & Young (EY).
A recent analysis by Business Insider sheds light on the salary ranges across various roles within these firms, which are renowned for their lucrative compensation packages, with many employees enjoying six-figure salaries and eligibility for annual bonuses
The analysis, based on the U.S. Office of Foreign Labor Certification’s 2023 disclosure data, provides insight into the compensation for roles ranging from entry-level to executive positions, excluding performance bonuses and signing bonuses.
At Deloitte, which boasts the largest workforce among the Big Four with close to 455,000 employees globally, senior managers can earn between $91,603 and $288,000. The firm reported a significant revenue increase in 2023, pulling in close to $64.9 billion.
Similarly, PwC, with over 328,000 employees worldwide, offers salaries ranging from $68,000 for associates to over $1 million for principals. The firm reported a revenue of more than $53 billion for the 2023 fiscal year, up 5.6% from 2022.
KPMG, reporting a 5% revenue increase with over 219,000 employees, offers managing directors salaries between $230,000 to $485,000. The firm has notably raised starting salaries for accounting graduates by 26% over the past five years.
EY, with more than 298,000 employees in over 150 countries, reported a record $49.4 billion in revenue for the 2023 fiscal year. Salaries at EY vary widely, with accountants and auditors earning between $54,000 and $390,000.
Despite recent layoffs and hiring freezes due to a dip in demand for consulting services, the Big Four continue to be attractive employers for those seeking high-paying jobs straight out of school.
A KPMG spokesperson shared with Business Insider that they will continue recruiting on campuses after their “largest summer intern class ever” last year.
