CPA Fees Banner

CPA Salary

India, USA & Global Career Opportunities

Understanding the Earning Potential of CPA

There's no denying that one of the biggest incentives to pursuing a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certification is the significant salary advantage it brings.

Regardless of whether you're in India or abroad, salary levels are consistently higher for CPAs than for non-certified accountants.

So, if you're asking, “Is CPA worth it?” the answer is a resounding yes.

70,000+Global Alumni
100+University Partners
600+Employer Collaborations
1,000+Students placed in the U.S.
70,000+Global Alumni
100+University Partners
600+Employer Collaborations
1,000+Students placed in the U.S.
70,000+Global Alumni
100+University Partners
600+Employer Collaborations
1,000+Students placed in the U.S.
CPA fee background

CPA Salary in India

With the rise of Big 4s' global capability centers (GCCs) and MNCs, CPA jobs in India are on the rise.

Here is a salary range offered to an individual based on their experience level.

Experience Level
Avg. CPA Salary in India
Fresher
₹6–8 LPA
1–3 Years
₹10–15 LPA
3–5 Years
₹18–25 LPA
5+ Years/Managerial
₹30 LPA+

CPA professionals in India can generally land roles in audit, tax, and controllership with Big 4s, Fortune 500s, and U.S.-based CPA firms. As India continues to become a global hub for finance and accounting services, the salary prospects for US CPAs have significantly improved. 

Professionals with a CPA qualification are often considered for specialized roles such as internal audit, U.S. taxation, international financial reporting, and risk management, making them stand out from traditional accounting professionals.

Additionally, many CPAs working with multinational corporations or Big 4 firms receive performance-based bonuses, travel opportunities, and accelerated career paths.

CPA course overview background

How Much Do CPAs in the U.S. Earn?

A CPAs salary in the U.S. can vary. This is based on factors like industry, location, and experience level. That said, CPAs are known to consistently earn 30–40% more than their non-CPA counterparts.

CPA Jobs: Level/Roles
Average Salary (USD)
Entry-Level CPA
$60k–$75k
CPA with 3–5Years Exp
$85k–$100k
CPA (Senior/Manager)
$110k–$140k+
CPA in Big 4/Consulting
$120k–$180k+
CPA CFO/Controller
$120k–$180k+

US CPAs also enjoy global mobility, as the qualification makes them eligible for roles across the United States, Canada, the Middle East, and Europe, acting as a gateway to high-paying, senior-level roles across various sectors. 

From public accounting firms and corporate finance departments to government agencies and tech startups, CPAs are integral to financial leadership. Their salaries tend to scale rapidly with experience, certifications, and industry specialization. 

Moreover, CPAs in the U.S. benefit from perks like annual bonuses, health insurance, retirement plans, and paid continuing education, making it incredibly rewarding both financially and professionally.

CPA AICPA background

US CPA Salary vs CA (India)

CPA (USA)
CA (India)
Global Recognition
Strong (esp. USA/MNCs)
Primarily India-based
Avg Starting Salary
₹6–8 LPA (India)
₹7–8 LPA
Global Job Opportunities
Yes
Limited (outside India)
Industry Demand
Growing in GCCs & MNCs
Saturated in some areas

While both are prestigious and lucrative in their own right, a CPA generally offers a global edge, especially for those targeting international careers or roles in the Big 4.

CPA Job Opportunities

CPAs are in high demand across industries and geographies. They are a good fit for the following job roles:

Financial Analyst/ Controller
CFO/ Financial Consultant
Internal & External Auditor
Statutory Audit Manager (Big 4)
Tax Consultant/ Tax Manager
Accounting Manager/VP Finance
Risk Advisory Analyst

The CPA jobs are vast, spanning across a wide range of industries including finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and consulting.

As organizations prioritize transparent financial reporting and regulatory compliance, CPAs are increasingly being recruited for roles such as internal and external auditors, tax consultants, and financial analysts, as they require strong accounting expertise and also strategic thinking, data interpretation, and risk management capabilities. CPAs are often preferred for senior roles like Accounting Manager, Statutory Audit Manager, or VP of Finance due to their understanding of U.S. GAAP, and compliance frameworks.

CPA fee background

Miles: Where CPA Meets Career Advancement

80%+ CPAs in India are Miles Alumni | 70,000+ Global Alumni | Spread across 9 cities in India

Miles Education is committed to helping you achieve your potential, providing you with everything from learning to resources and networking opportunities to meet your career aspirations and step into CPA job opportunities in India or the U.S.

Expert training from the world’s favorite CPA coach

REG

Varun Jain, CPA, CMA
Harvard B - School Alumnus

Learn directly from Varun Jain, a Harvard alumnus and regarded as one of the most trusted names in CPA coaching globally.

Top CPA Salaries in India & Abroad

CPAs earn between ₹10-20 LPA in India and $70K-$130K+ in the U.S., making it a very rewarding global finance credential.

Top CPA Salaries

Opportunity to Join the Big 4

Fast-track your career. Miles CPA alumni have secured roles and rapid promotions at Big 4 firms. This is proof of the credential’s global demand

Top CPA Salaries

Global License, Global Mobility

The CPA license is recognized across borders. With Miles, you get licensed in both the U.S. and India, and can tap into global career opportunities with strong growth.

Premium Roles, Personalised Guidance

CPAs qualify for high-impact roles like Financial Controller, Audit Manager, and CFO. Miles ensures you’re placement-ready with 1:1 mentorship and career coaching.

Industry Backing from MNCs

Miles has built direct hiring relationships with over 220 multinational companies. This powerful corporate network enhances your chances of landing top-tier CPA roles.

Kickstart Your CPA Career Here

Step into global careers, top salaries, and leadership opportunities

Accounting Roadmap
star group

Connect With Us

i

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average CPA salary in the US?

The salary can vary depending on location, experience, and industry. On average, CPAs earn between $70,000 to $120,000 per year globally. With seniority and specialized skills, salaries can even exceed $150,000 annually, especially in the U.S. and other developed countries, making it a very exciting prospect.

2. What is the salary in India for CPAs?

In India, the salary can range from ₹6 to ₹12 lakhs per annum for entry-level roles, ₹10-15 LPA for professionals with 1 to 3 years of experience, and ₹20+ LPA for senior roles in Big 4s and GCCs. The US CPA certification significantly boosts earning potential compared to non-certified accountants, and with demand continuing to grow, the potential will likely increase as well.

3. What is the CPA salary in Canada?

The salary in Canada typically ranges from CAD 60,000 to CAD 110,000 annually. Professionals with over 5 years of experience or those in leadership roles may earn CAD 130,000 or more. This is because Canada's consistent demand for skilled CPAs ensures a stable and lucrative career path and will likely continue.

4. What are the types of CPA jobs in India?

There are diverse opportunities, especially in multinational corporations, Big 4 firms, global capability centers, and consulting companies. CPA job opportunities in India include roles like financial analyst, internal auditor, tax advisor, risk consultant, and compliance officer. The US CPA certification makes candidates highly attractive for global finance roles, mainly due to their understanding of concepts like U.S. GAAP and compliance frameworks.

Footer mountain graphic

Connect With Us

LinkedInYouTubeInstagramTwitterFacebook

Download The App

© 2025 Miles Education Private Limited. All rights reserved.

Get in touch to know more about US CPA Course