Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 1,455,770 bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks, and they earn a median of $49,210/year. The range runs from $35K to $73K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($49K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $73K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $62K | 1,870 |
| California | $57K | 154,980 |
| Connecticut | $57K | 14,820 |
| Massachusetts | $57K | 31,010 |
| New Jersey | $57K | 40,560 |
| Washington | $57K | 36,640 |
| New York | $56K | 93,920 |
| Alaska | $55K | 4,630 |
| Maryland | $54K | 18,380 |
| Rhode Island | $54K | 4,470 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks make?▼
The median bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks salary in the United States is $49,210 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $34,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,660.
What education do you need to become a bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks.
What are the highest paying states for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks?▼
The highest paying states for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks are District of Columbia ($62,470), California ($57,470), Connecticut ($57,290), Massachusetts ($57,120), New Jersey ($56,730). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.