Accountant Salary UK 2026
UK accountant salaries for 2026. From graduate accountant to Finance Director — ACA, ACCA, CIMA qualified pay scales and finance sector rates.
UK Accountant & Finance Salaries 2026
| Grade / Level | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Trainee Accountant | £26,000–£32,000 | Big 4 and regional firms |
| Part-Qualified Accountant | £30,000–£42,000 | Studying ACA/ACCA/CIMA |
| Newly Qualified (ACA/ACCA) | £45,000–£60,000 | First year post-qualification |
| Management Accountant | £40,000–£65,000 | Industry/in-house role |
| Financial Accountant | £42,000–£68,000 | Reporting & compliance |
| Senior Accountant / Manager | £55,000–£80,000 | 5+ years qualified |
| Financial Controller | £65,000–£95,000 | Head of accounting function |
| Finance Manager | £55,000–£80,000 | Team management |
| CFO (SME) | £80,000–£130,000 | Chief Financial Officer, smaller co |
| CFO (Large company) | £150,000–£500,000+ | Major corporations |
| Finance Director | £90,000–£180,000 | Director level |
Figures are estimates based on ONS ASHE data, sector surveys and advertised salaries. Individual salaries will vary.
About Accountant Salary Pay
Accounting is one of the most reliable career paths in the UK in terms of salary progression. Trainee accountants at Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) start at £26,000-£32,000 but progress quickly once qualified. The ACA qualification typically takes 3 years.
Once qualified as a chartered accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA), salaries accelerate significantly. Newly qualified accountants typically earn £45,000-£60,000, rising to £65,000-£85,000 with 3-5 years post-qualification experience.
The finance function offers excellent career progression. Management accountants and financial controllers in large companies can earn £80,000-£120,000. CFOs and Finance Directors at FTSE 100 companies earn £300,000-£500,000+ including bonuses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do accountants earn in the UK?
Accountant salaries range from £26,000 for graduate trainees to £500,000+ for CFOs at major corporations. Newly qualified chartered accountants (ACA/ACCA) typically earn £45,000-£60,000. Experienced management accountants earn £55,000-£80,000. The median accountant salary across all levels is approximately £48,000.
What is the salary for a newly qualified ACA?
Newly qualified ACA accountants typically earn £45,000-£65,000 in their first year post-qualification in the UK. In London and at Big 4 firms the range is typically £55,000-£70,000. Outside London and at smaller firms, NQ ACA salaries are typically £42,000-£55,000.
Is accounting a good career in the UK?
Yes — accounting offers excellent salary progression, strong job security, and transferable skills across all sectors. The qualification pathway (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) takes 3-4 years of training while earning a salary. Once qualified, accountants are in demand across every industry from financial services to technology to manufacturing.