How Much Does an Intermediate Accountant Make? (2025)
An intermediate accountant handles a broad range of accounting tasks including preparing financial statements, managing accounts payable and receivable, and assisting with budget analysis. They ensure accuracy in financial records, support month-end closing processes, and collaborate with auditors and other departments.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for accountants, including intermediate accountants, is expected to grow by 5% over the next decade from 2024 to 2034. This translates to about 124,200 job openings for intermediate accountants.
The average yearly salary for intermediate accountants in the US is $72,390 for 2025, according to Salary.com. Learn more about the salary trend for intermediate accountants and top-paying cities in the US, as well as some FAQs about the occupation.
What is the Average Intermediate Accountant's Salary?
As mentioned above, the average annual salary for intermediate accountants in the United States is $72,390 in 2025. As of August 15, 2025, the salary range for intermediate accountants in the US is between $55,590 and $89,039, with most earning $65,590 to $77,990 per year.
2025 Average Salary for Intermediate Accountants: $72,390 per year ($35 per hour)
An intermediate accountant's average monthly salary is $6,033, while the average weekly pay is $1,392. Meanwhile, the salary of an intermediate accountant per hour is $35 according to the report.
| Percentile | By Hour | By Week | By Month | By Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29 | $1,146 | $4,966 | $55,590 |
| 25th Percentile | $32 | $1,263 | $5,474 | $65,590 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $35 | $1,392 | $6,033 | $72,390 |
| 75th Percentile | $37 | $1,500 | $6,499 | $77,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $40 | $1,598 | $6,924 | $89,039 |
Intermediate Accountant Salaries State by State
Intermediate accountant salaries may vary across US states depending on key factors such as state minimum wage, occupation demand, location, and standards of living.
As shown in the table below, the three (3) states with the lowest average annual salary for intermediate accountants in the United States are Mississippi, West Virginia, and South Dakota with $64,590, $65,190, and $65,790, respectively.
Meanwhile, the three (3) states with the highest average annual salary for intermediate accountants are the District of Columbia, California, and New Jersey with $80,190, $79,890, and $78,490, respectively.
| States | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Alaska | $78,390 |
| Alabama | $66,490 |
| Arkansas | $65,390 |
| Arizona | $70,590 |
| California | $79,890 |
| Colorado | $73,890 |
| Connecticut | $77,390 |
| District of Columbia | $80,190 |
| Delaware | $73,290 |
| Florida | $68,490 |
| Georgia | $69,890 |
| Hawaii | $75,690 |
| Iowa | $69,290 |
| Idaho | $67,590 |
| Illinois | $73,790 |
| Indiana | $69,490 |
| Kansas | $68,990 |
| Kentucky | $68,190 |
| Louisiana | $68,890 |
| Massachusetts | $78,790 |
| Maryland | $74,690 |
| Maine | $70,590 |
| Michigan | $71,290 |
| Minnesota | $74,090 |
| Missouri | $68,790 |
| Mississippi | $64,590 |
| Montana | $68,390 |
| North Carolina | $68,790 |
| North Dakota | $71,490 |
| Nebraska | $68,190 |
| New Hampshire | $73,190 |
| New Jersey | $78,490 |
| New Mexico | $67,090 |
| Nevada | $71,690 |
| New York | $76,990 |
| Ohio | $70,490 |
| Oklahoma | $66,990 |
| Oregon | $73,490 |
| Pennsylvania | $72,090 |
| Rhode Island | $75,090 |
| South Carolina | $67,890 |
| South Dakota | $65,790 |
| Tennessee | $67,690 |
| Texas | $70,590 |
| Utah | $69,390 |
| Virginia | $72,890 |
| Vermont | $71,090 |
| Washington | $78,490 |
| Wisconsin | $71,190 |
| West Virginia | $65,190 |
| Wyoming | $69,490 |
What are the Best Paying Cities for Intermediate Accountants?
Intermediate accountant salaries also vary by city due to the differences in standard of living, local demand for the occupation, and industry rates in metropolitan areas.
The table below shows that the labor industry in California is offering higher average annual salaries for intermediate accountants, specifically in cities like San Jose, San Francisco, and Oakland. Certain cities such as New York, Queens Village, and Paramus, also show signs of increased demand for intermediate accountant occupations:
| Cities | Average Pay |
|---|---|
| San Jose, California | $91,290 ($44 per hour) |
| San Francisco, California | $90,390 ($44 per hour) |
| Oakland, California | $88,390 ($43 per hour) |
| New York, New York | $83,890 ($40 per hour) |
| Queens Village, New York | $83,390 ($40 per hour) |
| Paramus, New Jersey | $82,790 ($40 per hour) |
How Does Experience Affect Intermediate Accountant Salaries?
Having more experience gives intermediate accountants an edge over their peers and plays an important role in increasing their salary.
Salary.com reports that entry-level intermediate accountants earn an average annual income of $70,157. Having 2 more years of experience can increase an intermediate accountant's salary to $70,360.
After 2 to 4 years of experience, the salary could increase to about $72,800. Specialist and expert-level intermediate accountants can earn up to $75,099 and $75,263 respectively.
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Intermediate Accountant | $70,157 |
| Intermediate Level Intermediate Accountant | $70,360 |
| Senior Level Intermediate Accountant | $72,800 |
| Specialist Level Intermediate Accountant | $75,099 |
| Expert Level Intermediate Accountant | $75,263 |
How to Increase Salary as an Intermediate Accountant?
Intermediate accountants often develop their expertise through a combination of formal education, on-the-job training, and relevant certifications. While a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance is typically preferred, gaining specialized skills and professional credentials significantly improves career prospects and earning potential.
To increase their salary, intermediate accountants can focus on the following areas:
Intermediate Accountant Advancements:
- Licenses and Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CMA (Certified Management Accountant), or CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) can greatly enhance credibility and open doors to higher-paying positions.
- Professional Growth: Building experience in specialized areas like tax accounting, auditing, financial analysis, or payroll management helps broaden skill sets. Taking supervisory or team lead roles within accounting departments can also support salary growth.
- Additional Skills: Mastering accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle), improving data analysis abilities, and understanding regulatory compliance to improve efficiency and value to employers. Developing strong communication and problem-solving skills elevates career advancement opportunities.
- Salary and Outlook: Median salaries for intermediate accountants generally range from $55,000 to $75,000 annually, varying by geography, industry, and experience level. Entry-level salaries start lower but increase steadily as accountants gain credentials and take on more complex responsibilities. Demand remains robust across industries due to ongoing financial reporting and compliance needs.
In summary, intermediate accountants can increase their salaries by earning key certifications, expanding technical expertise, and progressing into leadership roles. Consistent professional development and adapting to evolving accounting standards contribute to long-term career success.
Intermediate Accountant Skills:
Gaining sought-after skills for an intermediate accountant is an effective way to earn a higher salary and unlock more career opportunities. The Real-time Job Posting Salary Data Report indicates that the most in-demand skills for intermediate accountants are general ledger and reconciliation analysis and accounting software, with 10.90% and 10.80%, respectively.
Also, essential skills such as general ledger and reconciliation analysis and bank reconciliation can increase the salary for intermediate accountants by 7.10% and 7.09%, respectively.
| Skill | Demand | Salary Increase |
|---|---|---|
| General Ledger and Reconciliation Analysis | 10.90% | +7.10% |
| Bank Reconciliation | 10.50% | +7.09% |
| Forecasting | 10.70% | +6.86% |
| Internal Audit | 10.50% | +6.39% |
| Balance Sheet Analysis | 10.70% | +6.23% |
| Oracle | 10.70% | +6.16% |
What are the FAQs About Intermediate Accountant Salaries?
Here are some common questions about the intermediate accountant salary:
What does an intermediate accountant do?
An intermediate accountant manages financial transactions and reporting in a dynamic accounting environment, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations. They handle day-to-day accounting tasks, support senior accountants, and contribute to the financial health of the organization. Here are some of their key job responsibilities:
- Prepare and process journal entries, invoices, and reconciliations accurately and in a timely manner.
- Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable activities, ensuring proper recording.
- Assist in month-end and year-end closing processes, including financial statement preparation.
- Monitor and reconcile general ledger accounts for accuracy.
- Support audit activities by providing documentation and resolving inquiries.
- Maintain compliance with accounting standards and company policies.
What educational background or degree is needed to become an intermediate accountant?
Intermediate accountants typically do not require a formal degree to enter the field. Most Intermediate accountants usually hold an associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Some enter the role with a combination of relevant coursework and on-the-job experience.
Certifications like CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) are not always required but can enhance career advancement. Vocational training or accounting certificates can also help build foundational skills. Advanced degrees are generally not required for this position.
Are intermediate accountants in demand?
Yes. BLS reports that the job outlook for intermediate accountants from 2024 to 2034 is expected to grow by 5%, which is faster than the average occupational growth and translates to roughly 124,200 job openings.
