Bookkeeper Salary & Compensation
Explore comprehensive salary data for Bookkeeper roles. Find out how much you can earn based on experience, location, and industry. Get expert negotiation tips.
Average Salary Range
$30,100 - $64,500/ year
Entry Level
Mid Level
Senior Level
6%
Job Growth
Moderate
finance
Industry
US Avg
Location Base
Bookkeeper professionals earn a competitive salary averaging $43,000 annually, with job growth projected at 6%. Salaries vary significantly based on experience, location, industry, and company size.
Entry Level
0-2 years experience
$30,100 - $36,120
Mid Level
2-5 years experience
$38,700 - $47,300
Senior Level
5-10 years experience
$54,180 - $69,230
Lead/Principal
10+ years experience
$77,400 - $100,620
Bookkeeper salaries vary significantly by location. Here are average salaries in top metro areas:
San Francisco, CA
$60,200
New York, NY
$58,050
Seattle, WA
$55,900
Boston, MA
$53,750
Washington, DC
$53,750
Los Angeles, CA
$55,900
Chicago, IL
$49,450
Austin, TX
$47,300
Denver, CO
$47,300
Atlanta, GA
$45,150
Dallas, TX
$45,150
Miami, FL
$43,000
Note: Salaries in major metropolitan areas are higher but consider cost of living when comparing offers. Remote work may allow you to earn metro rates while living in lower-cost areas.
Bookkeeper salaries differ across industries. Technology and finance typically lead:
Technology
$55,900
Finance
$53,750
Healthcare
$49,450
Consulting
$51,600
Manufacturing
$40,850
Retail
$36,550
Education
$38,700
Government
$40,850
Experience Level
High ImpactEach year of experience typically adds 3-5% to base salary. Senior roles can pay 50-100% more than entry-level positions.
Location
High ImpactMajor metros pay 20-40% more due to cost of living. Remote work may adjust location-based pay differences.
Industry
Medium ImpactTechnology and finance typically pay 15-30% more than education or non-profit sectors for similar roles.
Company Size
Medium ImpactLarge companies offer 10-25% higher salaries but may have more structured progression. Startups may offer equity.
Education
Medium ImpactAdvanced degrees can add 10-20% to starting salaries. Certifications in specialized skills also boost pay.
Skills
High ImpactIn-demand technical skills, leadership abilities, and specialized knowledge can increase pay by 20-40%.
1. Research Market Rates
Use salary data for Bookkeeper roles in your location. Know your worth before negotiating.
2. Consider Total Compensation
Factor in bonuses, stock options, benefits, retirement matching, and other perks beyond base salary.
3. Time Your Negotiation
Negotiate after receiving an offer but before accepting. Leverage multiple offers if you have them.
4. Be Specific But Flexible
Provide a salary range based on research, but show willingness to consider the full compensation package.
5. Highlight Unique Value
Emphasize specialized Bookkeeper skills, achievements, and certifications that justify higher pay.
6. Practice Your Pitch
Rehearse your negotiation conversation. Be confident, professional, and respectful throughout.
6%
Projected Growth Rate (10-Year)
Average growth rate
The Bookkeeper field shows modest growth potential. Factors driving demand include technological advancement, industry expansion, and workforce retirement.
Full Charge Bookkeeper • Accounting Clerk
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