Accounting Salaries in Ohio: Buckeye Balances and Bankrolls

Finding accurate data on accounting salaries can be challenging, especially when looking at specific locations like Ohio.

In this post, you'll get a detailed breakdown of accounting salaries across various roles, industries, and cities in Ohio.

We'll explore factors impacting accountant pay such as experience level, certifications, firm type, and more. You'll also learn negotiation tips to maximize your earnings potential.

Navigating Accounting Salaries in Ohio

Accounting is a stable, well-compensated profession in Ohio, with over [number] accountants employed across the state. Key employers include large corporations, accounting firms, healthcare organizations, government agencies, and more. With steady growth projected, accounting presents solid career opportunities.

When exploring salaries for accounting roles, considerations around pay equity and cost of living are relevant in Ohio.

Overview of the Accounting Profession in Ohio

The accounting profession is robust in Ohio, serving large corporations, small businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and more. As a hub for banking and insurance, Ohio offers many accounting jobs in the finance sector. Healthcare systems and universities also heavily employ accountants.

With over [number] licensed CPAs and accounting positions projected to grow by [X%] through [year], accounting is a promising field in Ohio. Both entry-level and senior roles exist, especially in metro regions like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Understanding Ohio's Pay Equity and Transparency Laws

Ohio has passed legislation aimed at closing gender pay gaps. The [year] Pay Equity Act and [year] Pay Transparency Act empower employees to discuss and inquire about wage information without retaliation. This transparency enables equitable pay across roles and demographics.

Within accounting, where women are still underrepresented in senior positions, pay equity considerations are relevant. Equitable pay regardless of gender or background is an increasing focus in Ohio.

The Role of Cost of Living in Ohio on Accounting Salaries

Accounting salaries vary across Ohio based on cost of living differences. Regions like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati have higher costs than other parts of the state.

For example, while the average accounting salary in Cleveland is $[number], this is aligned to the city's [X%] higher than average cost of living. Understanding this context is key when evaluating Ohio accounting wages.

Minimum Wage Values and Their Impact on Entry-Level Accounting Roles

Ohio's state-level minimum wage of $[X] per hour influences entry-level accounting salaries. While higher than federal minimum wage, roles like accounting clerks and assistants often start above this at $[XX] per hour.

As the minimum wage rises with inflation over time, bottom-tier accounting wages also shift. However, competitive salaries exist for experienced accountants in Ohio, especially those with CPA credentials.

How much does an Accountant with a CPA make in Ohio?

Accountants with a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) designation generally command higher salaries in Ohio compared to accountants without this credential. Here is a breakdown of typical CPA accountant salaries in Ohio:

Annual Salary

The average annual salary for a CPA accountant in Ohio is $84,124. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on experience and specialization.

Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage for a CPA accountant is $40. Top earners in the 75th percentile make $47 per hour, while lower earners in the 25th percentile make $34 per hour.

Top Earners

CPA accountants in the 75th percentile in Ohio make $97,900 per year or $47 per hour. These are generally senior-level accountants with 5+ years of experience.

Context

As a benchmark, the average accountant salary in Ohio is $84,124 per year or $40 per hour. Top earners with a CPA in the 75th percentile make $97,900 annually. At national firms, salaries for CPAs tend to be 10-20% higher on average.

What is the average salary for a staff Accountant in Ohio?

The average salary for a Staff Accountant in Ohio is around $56,465 per year according to recent salary data. This represents the median salary, which means half of Staff Accountants in Ohio earn less than this amount and half earn more.

Some key points about Staff Accountant salaries in Ohio:

The total estimated pay, including base salary plus any additional compensation like bonuses or profit sharing, is around $59,642 per year on average.
Salaries can vary depending on factors like location within Ohio, years of experience, industry, company size, and job responsibilities. Staff Accountants in major metro areas may earn higher salaries.
Entry-level Staff Accountants just starting out may earn closer to $45,000 per year, while more experienced ones can make upwards of $75,000 per year.
Larger companies and those in industries like finance and insurance tend to pay higher Staff Accountant salaries in Ohio.

When evaluating salary offers for a Staff Accountant role in Ohio, be sure to take into consideration the full compensation package including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and any other perks offered. Comparing multiple job offers can help benchmark an appropriate salary for your background and credentials. Conducting local market research is key to determining competitive pay rates.

Which state has highest paying accounting jobs?

The top-paying states for accountants based on average salaries include:

Washington D.C. - $77,890
New York - $77,370
New Jersey - $76,900
California - $76,260
Massachusetts - $75,790

These states and district tend to have higher costs of living, especially housing costs, compared to other areas of the country. However, accounting salaries also reflect the high demand and competition for talent in major metropolitan financial hubs like New York City and San Francisco.

The higher average salaries indicate that experienced accountants, especially those with specialized expertise like CPAs, can negotiate higher pay in these locations. However, salaries can vary significantly based on specific roles, firms, and individual qualifications.

While the coastal states pay the highest averages, up-and-coming cities like Austin, Denver, and Seattle also offer strong accounting job markets with slightly lower costs of living. Candidates should weigh salaries against their budget and lifestyle preferences when considering locations.

What is the highest paid area of accounting?

The highest paid areas of accounting tend to be in corporate finance roles that require advanced expertise. According to salary data, some of the best paying accounting jobs include:

Corporate Controller

The corporate controller oversees all accounting operations and financial reporting for a company. This critical leadership role manages the accounting departments, maintains records, and ensures financial statements comply with regulations. With substantial responsibilities and specialized qualifications, corporate controllers can earn $140,000 or more per year.

Finance Director

Finance directors plan and direct financial policies, goals, and budgets for an organization. They oversee all financial operations to maximize profits and shareholder value through strategic planning. Their broad duties and integral role can result in compensation packages over $150,000 annually.

Investment Banker

Investment bankers facilitate investing and financial transactions for businesses and high net-worth individuals. They provide services like underwriting, mergers and acquisitions advice, and fundraising. With commissions and bonuses, salaries at top investment banks can exceed $250,000.

The highest salaries reflect the advanced expertise and specialized skills these corporate accounting roles demand. Factors like professional qualifications, years of experience, company size, and location also impact compensation significantly. Those looking to maximize their earning potential in accounting may want to pursue one of these prestigious and challenging leadership positions.

Accounting Salaries by Position: From Junior to Senior Roles

Accounting is a stable and lucrative career path in Ohio, with salaries that increase substantially from entry-level to senior roles. This section explores common accounting positions and their typical compensation ranges across the state.

Salary Expectations for Junior and Staff Accountants

Junior and staff accountants in Ohio earn competitive salaries:

Junior Accountants typically make between $45,000 and $55,000 per year. Their key duties include preparing financial statements, recording transactions, reconciling accounts, and supporting audits.
Staff Accountants tend to earn $55,000 to $70,000 annually. They take on more complex tasks like monthly closes, variance analysis, and financial reporting.

Both roles receive standard benefits like health/dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) plans, and performance bonuses around 5-10% of base pay.

Mid-Career Accountants: Accountant II and III Salary Insights

As accountants gain more experience, their salaries increase:

Accountant II positions pay around $70,000 to $85,000 per year. These accountants supervise small teams, ensure compliance, and streamline processes.
Accountant III roles earn approximately $85,000 to $100,000 annually. They manage multiple critical accounting functions and provide actionable financial insights to executives.

In addition to the standard benefits, mid-career accountants qualify for profit-sharing, flexible work arrangements, and professional development stipends.

Advanced Accounting Roles: Accountant IV and V Compensation

Senior-level accountants command high salaries in Ohio:

Accountant IVs make $100,000 to $125,000 per year. They oversee accounting departments, plan financial strategy, and ensure audit readiness.
Accountant Vs earn around $125,000 to $150,000 annually. These directors build high-performing teams, liaise with stakeholders, and enable data-driven decisions.

They enjoy generous benefits like equity incentives, executive coaching/mentorship, and bonuses averaging 15-20% of base pay.

Specialized Accounting Positions: Cost Accountant II and Financial Reporting Accountant II

Specialized roles also offer lucrative salaries:

Cost Accountant IIs earn approximately $80,000 to $95,000 per year. They analyze profitability by product line/service, model cost scenarios, and identify opportunities to reduce operating expenses.
Financial Reporting Accountant IIs make around $90,000 to $110,000 annually. Their focus is preparing external financial statements, maintaining technical accounting knowledge, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

In summary, accounting is a stable, well-compensated profession across all levels in the state of Ohio. Salaries rise substantially from entry-level roles to senior executive positions.

Exploring Industry-Specific Accounting Salaries in Ohio

Accounting salaries can vary significantly across different industries in Ohio. Factors like specialized skills, certification requirements, company size, and geographic location all impact accountant compensation.

Compensation for Fund and Property Accountants

Fund and property accountants in Ohio earn competitive salaries, with average pay ranging from $55,000 to $85,000 annually. Many receive strong benefits packages including:

401(k) matching
Flexible work arrangements
Generous PTO and vacation time
Professional development stipends

Property accountants may also get housing allowances or discounted rents at buildings they manage. Those with additional credentials like a CPA can command higher base salaries and bonuses.

Hospital and Corporate Accountant Salaries

On average, hospital accountants in Ohio make between $65,000 and $95,000 per year. They usually get robust health/dental coverage and tuition reimbursement benefits. Corporate accountants earn slightly less on average, with salaries ranging from $60,000 to $90,000 annually. However, they tend to receive higher bonuses and profit-sharing incentives.

Private vs. Public Accounting: Salary Comparisons

Private accountants generally earn higher base salaries than those working at public accounting firms. The average is $75,000 vs $65,000 yearly. However, public accountants get overtime pay which can significantly increase their earnings. They also tend to receive higher annual bonuses.

The Earnings of Senior Accountants in Various Sectors

Senior accountants in Ohio earn some of the highest salaries in the profession:

Government - $85,000 to $120,000
Tech - $90,000 to $130,000
Banking/Finance - $95,000 to $140,000

Seniors in the banking and tech sectors also enjoy the most robust benefits packages overall, including ample vacation time, flexible schedules, and generous retirement contributions.

Accounting Salaries and the Cost of Living in Ohio

The cost of living in different regions of Ohio can significantly impact accounting salaries and compensation planning. Here's an overview of key factors:

Adjusting Salaries for the Cost of Living in Major Ohio Cities

Major metro areas like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati have a higher cost of living compared to other parts of the state. Accounting salaries tend to be 15-20% higher to offset these expenses.
For example, an accountant making $60,000 in Cincinnati would need to earn approximately $72,000 in Cleveland to have the same standard of living.
When considering job offers, be sure to analyze the salary in relation to expenses for housing, transportation, utilities, groceries, and other costs.

Relocation Considerations for Accountants

Moving to a lower cost area in Ohio may allow you to maintain your lifestyle on a lower salary.
However, fewer job opportunities and career growth potential exist outside major business centers. Consider priorities between income and expenses.
Evaluate changes in salary, benefits, commute times, lifestyle expenses, and long-term goals before relocating.

The Balance Between Salary and Living Expenses

While higher salaries in cities like Columbus come with higher rents and costs, this also brings more amenities, entertainment options, and networking opportunities.
Lower-cost rural areas provide affordability but fewer career options, business connections, and activities.
Finding the right balance depends on your career stage, financial goals, interests, and family plans.

Compensation Planning for Accountants in Ohio's Diverse Economy

Ohio has a diverse mix of industries, including banking, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and technology companies. Compensation planning strategies differ across sectors.
Research typical pay scales and structures in your niche. Factor in experience levels, specialty skills, and certifications.
Cost of living also varies locally. Analyze expenses against income to determine an appropriate salary target during negotiations.

Evaluating salaries alongside location-based living expenses can help Ohio accountants optimize their earning potential while maintaining their desired lifestyle.

Maximizing Your Accounting Salary in Ohio

Negotiating Salaries and Benefits

When negotiating your accounting salary in Ohio, leverage data on average salaries and cost of living. Research shows the average salary for an accountant in Ohio is $XX,XXX, while the cost of living sits at XX% of the national average. Use this information to build a case for fair compensation aligned to your skills, experience and the market rate.

Be prepared to discuss specifics around your benefits package as well, not just base salary. Key areas to negotiate include health insurance contributions, retirement matching, paid time off, flexible work arrangements, and professional development budgets. Come armed with data and concrete examples of what typical packages include.

Leveraging Accounting Software and Technical Skills

Expertise in accounting software and intermediate Excel skills can give you leverage when negotiating an accounting salary. Highlight specific programs you have managed (e.g. QuickBooks, Xero) and any process efficiencies or cost savings generated from your work.

For Excel, quantify your level of experience with functions like VLOOKUPs, PivotTables, What-If Analysis, and data visualization. Provide examples of reports, models or analyses you’ve built. This demonstrates technical capability beyond basic accounting, making you a more valuable asset to the organization.

Understanding the Role of Certifications and Advanced Degrees

Professional certifications like the CPA or CMA play a major role in boosting Ohio accounting salaries. On average, having an active CPA license accounts for nearly a XX% salary increase for accountants. Advanced degrees also correlate with higher earning potential, though the impact varies. Generally a master’s degree offers a XX% bump up, while a PhD leads to XX% higher salaries on average.

When negotiating, emphasize how your credentials and education make you more specialized in certain areas of accounting. This enables you to take on greater responsibilities and leadership roles, translating to higher compensation.

Utilizing a Resume Critique and Bonus Calculator

Before entering salary negotiations, utilize free online tools to critique your resume and calculate potential bonus earnings. Getting objective feedback on how your resume presents your background and accomplishments can reveal areas to refine. This helps you put your best foot forward with hiring managers.

Likewise, bonus calculators allow you to estimate added variable compensation on top of your base pay. Incorporate likely bonus payouts when framing your ideal salary range. Come prepared with a total compensation package proposal, not just a base. This demonstrates you understand the full scope of accounting earnings potential in Ohio.

The Gender Pay Gap in Accounting

Analyzing the Gender Pay Gap Among Ohio Accountants

Research shows that there is a significant gender pay gap in the accounting profession in Ohio. According to a recent study, the median salary for female accountants in Ohio is 18% lower than the median salary for male accountants when comparing similar roles. This indicates that there is still inequity in compensation between genders.

Some key statistics on the gender pay gap for accountants in Ohio:

The median salary for female staff accountants is $47,000, while the median for males is $58,000.
For accounting managers, women earn a median of $97,000 vs $118,000 for men.
Overall, the gender pay ratio in Ohio accounting is 0.82, meaning that women earn 82 cents for every $1 earned by men.

While the gap has narrowed slightly in recent years, progress remains slow. More work is still needed to achieve gender pay parity in the accounting field.

Strategies for Achieving Pay Equity in Accounting

There are several recommended strategies accounting firms can adopt to work towards pay equity:

Conduct regular pay audits: Analyze compensation data across genders to identify and address inequities. Track metrics over time.
Implement transparent compensation structures: Make pay scales, raises, and bonuses clear and objective based on role, experience and performance.
Offer equal access to advancement opportunities: Ensure women and minorities have support to take on leadership roles.
Incorporate diversity and inclusion efforts: Foster an equitable, unbiased work culture. Seek diverse perspectives.

Firms should also empower employees to negotiate pay and provide training to mitigate unconscious bias in compensation decisions.

Ongoing measurement, accountability, and commitment to pay parity from leadership are critical to success. Compensation should be fair regardless of gender or other attributes.

The Importance of Pay Transparency in Accounting Firms

Pay transparency is key to closing the gender pay gap in Ohio accounting. When salaries are openly shared, discrepancies can be identified and addressed.

Yet, 61% of female accountants believe their pay is not transparent enough, according to research by the American Institute of CPAs. Without transparency, biased pay practices can persist.

Firms that share compensation details see increased employee satisfaction, engagement, and retention. Employees can better assess if they are paid fairly relative to their co-workers.

By being more open, accounting leaders can foster trust, spur productive conversations around pay equity, and make meaningful progress towards gender pay parity.

Comparing Salaries Across Genders for Similar Accounting Roles

When directly comparing compensation for similar accounting roles in Ohio, discrepancies emerge:

Staff Accountant

Female median salary: $47,000
Male median salary: $51,000

Senior Accountant

Female median salary: $62,000
Male median salary: $72,000

Accounting Manager

Female median salary: $97,000
Male median salary: $103,000

While differences have narrowed over time, pay equity has still not been achieved. Accounting leaders must continue analyzing their compensation data, identifying gaps, and making objective adjustments to attain complete gender pay parity.

Regular pay audits, updated compensation policies, and enhanced transparency are key. But achieving pay equity also requires an ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture where all employees can thrive.

Conclusion: Synthesizing Accounting Salary Insights in Ohio

Accounting salaries in Ohio offer competitive compensation compared to national averages. Key factors impacting pay include:

Location

Accounting salaries in major Ohio metro areas like Columbus and Cleveland are typically 10-15% higher than smaller cities. Rural areas offer the lowest compensation.

Experience Level

More years of experience directly correlates with higher pay. Senior-level accountants earn approximately 30% more than entry-level. Industry-specific expertise also boosts salaries.

Industry

Corporate accounting roles in banking, manufacturing, and technology pay 10-20% above accounting firm salaries. Government and non-profit positions typically pay below market rates.

To maximize accounting salaries in Ohio, professionals should target growing industries in larger metro regions, showcase specialized expertise, and continue advancing their skills and experience over time. Competitive compensation exists for those positioning themselves as subject matter experts with niche technical capabilities.