Accountant Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Finance · COL Index: 195.8
$121,630
Median Salary
$128,730
Mean Salary
$62,120
COL-Adjusted
13,410
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $75,680 | $38,652 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,960 | $47,988 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $121,630 | $62,120 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,380 | $81,399 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $200,450 | $102,375 |
What Drives the Range
The $124,770 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Accountant positions in San Jose, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $121,630 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $62,120 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.