Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Accountant vs Actuary salary

In United States, a actuary earns about 97% more than a accountant $156,000 vs $79,200 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Finance & Business
Accountant
$79,200/yr
Monthly
$6,600
Hourly
$38
Range
$54,300$109,700
10-yr outlook
+4%
Pays more
Finance & Business
Actuary
$156,000/yr
Monthly
$13,000
Hourly
$75
Range
$102,600$221,200
10-yr outlook
+22%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileAccountantActuary
Entry (10th)$54,300$102,600
25th$66,700$129,300
Median$79,200$156,000
75th$94,400$188,600
Senior (90th)$109,700$221,200

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Finance & Business comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a accountant or actuary earn more in United States?
A actuary earns more, at about $156,000 per year vs $79,200 for a accountant — roughly 97% ($76,800) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A accountant typically earns $54,300–$109,700, while a actuary earns $102,600–$221,200 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a accountant averages about $6,600 and a actuary about $13,000.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a accountant earns about $54,300 while a actuary earns about $102,600 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a accountant earns about $109,700 while a actuary earns about $221,200 per year.
Are accountant and actuary similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Finance & Business category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.