Energy capital, NASA, world-class medical center. Here's how Accountant / CPAs in Houston get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Houston metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $65,400 | $49,700 | $85,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $81,300 | $61,700 | $105,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $93,500 | $71,000 | $121,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $112,200 | $85,200 | $145,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $127,100 | $96,500 | $165,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Accountant / CPAs — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Houston metro economy.
The average Accountant / CPA salary in the Houston metro is $93,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $71,000 to $121,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $154,200 or more.
Yes — Houston pays -1% relative to the Texas state median for Accountant / CPAs. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Houston vs. national: +6%. Houston pays roughly in line with the national average for Accountant / CPAs. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Houston, the median Accountant / CPA salary of $93,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Accountant / CPAs in Houston start around $65,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $112,200 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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