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Bookkeeper Salary in 2025 - How Much Do Bookkeepers Make by State

By QuickBooks
Published on June 1, 2025

Bookkeeping remains a key role for small businesses, helping owners stay organized, compliant, and financially on track. But what is a bookkeeper’s salary for 2025? According to recent data from Zippia, the average bookkeeper salary in the U.S. is around $40,000, or about $19 per hour. However, multiple factors— e.g., where you live, your experience level, and the type of work you do—can increase or decrease the salary of a bookkeeper.

In this post, we’ll walk through what bookkeepers earn across the U.S., which cities and states pay the most (and the least), and what factors influence your income.

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Average bookkeeper’s salary by city and state

Bookkeeper salaries can shift quite a bit from state to state and even more from one city to the next. Big cities with higher costs of living tend to pay more, while smaller towns or rural areas might land on the lower end of the scale.

How much does a bookkeeper cost? In this section, we’ll break down the average bookkeeper salary and hourly wage across the U.S., spotlighting the highest- and lowest-paying states and cities.

10 states with the highest bookkeeper salary

If you’re looking to earn top dollar as a bookkeeper, heading to the Northeast or the West Coast might be your best bet. Here are the top-paying states for bookkeepers in 2025:

Source: Zippia

10 states with the lowest bookkeeper salary

On the other end of the spectrum, states with a lower cost of living tend to offer lower average salaries. Here are the states where bookkeeper salaries fall on the lower end:

Source: Zippia

10 cities with the highest bookkeeper salary

When it comes to top-paying cities for bookkeepers, major metro areas dominate the list. Here are the top cities with the highest average bookkeeper salaries.

Source: Zippia

10 cities with the lowest bookkeeper salary

Just like certain metro areas offer premium pay for bookkeepers, there are also cities where salaries fall on the lower end of the scale. Here's a look at the 10 U.S. cities where bookkeepers earn the least on average in 2025:

Source: Zippia

Average hourly wages and salaries for all states

Whether you’re hiring a bookkeeper or thinking about relocating, this list can help you understand what fair pay looks like in your area. Here’s a breakdown of the average bookkeeper salary and hourly rate in every U.S. state:

  • Alabama: $35,248 per year | $16.95 per hour
  • Alaska: $45,253 per year | $21.76 per hour
  • Arizona: $38,035 per year | $18.29 per hour
  • Arkansas: $32,660 per year | $15.70 per hour
  • California: $43,976 per year | $21.14 per hour
  • Colorado: $38,740 per year | $18.63 per hour
  • Connecticut: $46,977 per year | $22.59 per hour
  • Delaware: $44,991 per year | $21.63 per hour
  • District of Columbia: $48,148 per year | $23.15 per hour
  • Florida: $37,832 per year | $18.19 per hour
  • Georgia: $38,301 per year | $18.41 per hour
  • Hawaii: $43,889 per year | $21.10 per hour
  • Idaho: $36,245 per year | $17.43 per hour
  • Illinois: $40,846 per year | $19.64 per hour
  • Indiana: $35,575 per year | $17.10 per hour
  • Iowa: $35,192 per year | $16.92 per hour
  • Kansas: $33,563 per year | $16.14 per hour
  • Kentucky: $34,725 per year | $16.69 per hour
  • Louisiana: $34,478 per year | $16.58 per hour
  • Maine: $37,099 per year | $17.84 per hour
  • Maryland: $44,494 per year | $21.39 per hour
  • Massachusetts: $47,205 per year | $22.69 per hour
  • Michigan: $37,537 per year | $18.05 per hour
  • Minnesota: $40,965 per year | $19.69 per hour
  • Mississippi: $31,329 per year | $15.06 per hour
  • Missouri: $36,784 per year | $17.68 per hour
  • Montana: $31,625 per year | $15.20 per hour
  • Nebraska: $32,648 per year | $15.70 per hour
  • Nevada: $38,053 per year | $18.29 per hour
  • New Hampshire: $40,115 per year | $19.29 per hour
  • New Jersey: $46,773 per year | $22.49 per hour
  • New Mexico: $30,682 per year | $14.75 per hour
  • New York: $48,079 per year | $23.11 per hour
  • North Carolina: $36,655 per year | $17.62 per hour
  • North Dakota: $35,169 per year | $16.91 per hour
  • Ohio: $37,663 per year | $18.11 per hour
  • Oklahoma: $35,248 per year | $16.95 per hour
  • Oregon: $41,419 per year | $19.91 per hour
  • Pennsylvania: $40,209 per year | $19.33 per hour
  • Rhode Island: $40,629 per year | $19.53 per hour
  • South Carolina: $36,194 per year | $17.40 per hour
  • South Dakota: $34,114 per year | $16.40 per hour
  • Tennessee: $36,228 per year | $17.42 per hour
  • Texas: $39,159 per year | $18.83 per hour
  • Utah: $36,016 per year | $17.32 per hour
  • Vermont: $40,247 per year | $19.35 per hour
  • Virginia: $40,593 per year | $19.52 per hour
  • Washington: $44,515 per year | $21.40 per hour
  • West Virginia: $32,418 per year | $15.59 per hour
  • Wisconsin: $38,412 per year | $18.47 per hour
  • Wyoming: $37,247 per year | $17.91 per hour

Bookkeeper demand in 2025

According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, traditional bookkeeping positions (like accounting clerks or payroll clerks) are among the jobs expected to decline over the next five years. That’s mostly because more businesses are using automation and AI to handle repetitive tasks like data entry and recordkeeping. However, that doesn’t mean bookkeepers are going extinct—it means they’re evolving.

One major shift? Bookkeepers are being called on to do more than just keep the books. The 2025 QuickBooks Small Business Index Annual Report highlights that 55% of U.S. small businesses now charge more than 25% of their monthly expenses to credit cards—a trend that’s creating a real need for bookkeepers who can offer more strategic support. Business owners don’t just want someone to track their spending anymore. They need help handling debt, managing cash flow, and forecasting growth in an unpredictable economy.

Another big shift is tech adoption. In the QuickBooks report, small businesses that use digital tools, like cash flow apps, AI features in accounting software, and e-commerce platforms, have shown up to 3 percentage points faster growth compared to those that don’t. Even more telling: 46% of business owners say AI has already improved their work efficiency. That means bookkeepers who know how to integrate tech into their workflows can offer serious value.

The bottom line is that the role of a bookkeeper is evolving. But for those willing to evolve with it, there’s still plenty of opportunity out there.

Factors of a bookkeeper’s salary

A bookkeeper’s salary can depend on a mix of factors, from education and certifications to the kind of company you work for and where you live. Let’s break down the major aspects that can affect your paycheck as a bookkeeper in 2025.

Education and certifications

While formal education isn't always mandatory for bookkeepers, having the right credentials can definitely boost your earning potential. These include:

  • Associate's or bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance: This gives you a strong foundation and can help you land higher-paying roles.
  • Certified Bookkeeper (CB): Offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB), this credential shows you have a deep understanding of accounting principles, payroll, and adjustments. It requires passing a four-part exam and providing at least two years of work experience.
  • Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB): From the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB), this certification confirms your expertise in bookkeeping and payroll. It also requires passing an exam and meeting experience and continuing education requirements.
  • QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification: This is a great add-on if you're working with clients who use QuickBooks booking software.

Years of experience

Like most careers, the more time you’ve spent doing the job, the more you’re likely to earn. Take a look at how years of experience can influence a bookkeeper’s salary:

Industry

The type of industry you work for can also influence how much you earn as a bookkeeper. Take a look at some examples of industries that may pay more than others:

  • Finance, insurance, healthcare, and construction: These sectors demand accuracy and compliance, which means they’re willing to pay for high-quality talent.
  • Professional services and tech firms: Companies in these industries often deal with large, complex finances, which means more responsibility and potential for higher pay
  • Manufacturing: Bookkeepers here often handle inventory tracking and cost analysis, which can increase pay.

On the flip side, industries like hospitality or retail may offer lower salaries due to simpler accounting needs.

Company size

Company size can have an impact on your earnings, too. Here’s a breakdown of the average bookkeeper’s salary based on company size:

Source: ResumeLibrary

Location

Where you live—or where your clients are—matters. Areas with high costs of living, such as New York, California, and Massachusetts, tend to pay more for bookkeeping roles. On the flip side, more affordable regions may come with lower salaries, but that’s often offset by reduced living expenses.

It’s worth mentioning that there are remote and virtual bookkeeping opportunities. This means you could live in a smaller city but work for clients in major metros, potentially earning more while spending less.

Full-time vs. part-time

Being a full-time or part-time bookkeeper can also affect your earnings: 

  • Full-time: These bookkeepers typically receive a fixed annual salary, along with employee benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
  • Part-time: These bookkeepers are usually paid hourly. The rates vary based on experience and responsibilities. While they may have more flexible schedules, benefits are typically limited or not provided.

Choosing between full-time and part-time positions depends on individual preferences, financial needs, and career goals. If you’re seeking stability and benefits, full-time might be the better fit. But if flexibility and work-life balance are a priority, part-time or freelance work could be the way to go.

Comparing bookkeeping and accounting career paths

Bookkeeping and accounting might sound like the same job, but they actually play different roles in a business. If you’re trying to decide between the two as a career or figuring out which one your business needs, it’s helpful to understand how they compare.

Bookkeepers tend to focus on the day-to-day financial details. They record transactions, balance the books, handle invoicing, and keep financial records organized and accurate. Think of them as the ones making sure the numbers add up.

On the other hand, accountants take a more analytical and strategic role. They interpret financial data, prepare reports, and usually provide tax planning, budgeting, and financial forecasting. Many accountants also help businesses make big-picture decisions using those numbers.

Bookkeepers vs. accountants: Education and salaries

When it comes to education and earning potential, there’s a noticeable gap between bookkeepers and accountants, but that doesn’t mean one is better than the other. It really depends on what kind of career you’re looking for.

Education

Bookkeepers usually don’t need a four-year degree to get started. Many enter the field with a high school diploma or associate degree, especially if they have strong math and organizational skills. That said, earning a certification like the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) or Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) can help boost credibility and salary.

Accountants typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Many go a step further to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), which requires passing a rigorous exam and meeting state-specific education and experience requirements. CPAs are qualified to file taxes, conduct audits, and offer more complex financial guidance.

Salary

Bookkeepers can earn an average of around $40,337 to $50,232 per year, depending on their experience, industry, and location. 

On the flip side, accountants generally earn more, with average annual salaries ranging from $54,890 to $85,649. CPAs earn even more, with average salaries falling between $76,693 and $127,543.

While accounting requires a bigger upfront investment in education, it also tends to come with a higher salary ceiling. On the other hand, bookkeeping offers a more accessible entry point into the world of finance, along with the flexibility to grow through experience and certifications. 

What to charge as a bookkeeper

What should a bookkeeper charge per hour? It’s a great question and one that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. According to Zippia, the average hourly wage for bookkeepers in the U.S. is $19.39. However, rates can vary depending on your experience, where you live, what services you offer, and how you structure your pricing. Ultimately, you should research average rates in your area to ensure you price your services competitively. 

Options to structure bookkeeping fees

Whether you’re a freelancer or a seasoned bookkeeper starting a small business, getting your pricing strategy right can lead to steadier income and stronger client relationships. Here are a few of the most common ways bookkeepers set their rates:

Hourly rate

With an hourly rate, you track your time and charge clients based on how many hours you work. It’s simple and flexible, making it a good fit for clients who need help on an as-needed basis. Hourly rates can range anywhere from $25 to $100+ per hour, depending on your experience, niche, and location.

Monthly retainer

A monthly retainer agreement works well for ongoing work, like managing books, reconciling accounts, and running reports. It gives clients predictable costs and gives you consistent income. These packages usually start around $300 per month but can go much higher depending on the size of the business.

Project-based pricing

For one-time jobs—like cleaning up a year’s worth of messy books or preparing financials for a loan application—you might charge a set project fee. It keeps the scope clear and avoids any surprises for either side.

Value-based pricing

This model sets fees based on the value you deliver rather than the time you spend. For example, helping a business save thousands on taxes or organize its books for a big investment round might justify a premium price. Value-based pricing takes more strategy but can be a great way to earn more for high-impact work.

Percentage-based fees

In some cases, bookkeepers may charge a percentage of a business’s revenue or budget. For example, a bookkeeper might charge 1% to 3% of monthly revenue or a flat percentage of accounts managed. This approach is less common, but it can work in specific industries or when managing a high volume of financial activity.

Grow your business with seamless accounting software

Whether you’re thinking about becoming a bookkeeper or you’re a small business owner considering hiring a bookkeeper, having the right accounting software simplifies everything from tracking expenses to preparing financial statements.

QuickBooks is designed to streamline your workflow, save time, and help you stay on top of your finances. It’s trusted by millions of bookkeepers and business owners for a reason, and it scales with you as your needs grow.

Ready to take control of your books and boost your business? Try QuickBooks accounting software today.

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