Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Accountant / CPAs in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $80,600 | $61,300 | $104,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $100,200 | $76,200 | $130,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $115,200 | $87,600 | $149,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $138,200 | $105,100 | $179,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $156,600 | $119,100 | $203,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Accountant / CPAs — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Accountant / CPA salary in the Los Angeles metro is $115,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $87,600 to $149,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $190,200 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays +2% relative to the California 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.
Los Angeles vs. national: +31%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Accountant / CPAs — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Accountant / CPA salary of $115,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Accountant / CPAs in Los Angeles start around $80,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $138,200 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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