Accountants’ salaries remain close to peak
A survey of chartered accountants working in Leinster has shown that their average salary package this year is €130,960.
While this is slightly down from last year’s peak of €131,654 in 2025, it represents a 20% increase compared with 2018.
The annual survey of nearly 800 chartered accountants was launched today (3 September) by Chartered Accountants Leinster Society and accounting advisory and recruitment firm Barden.
‘Strength of demand’
Darren Holmes (chair, Chartered Accountants Leinster Society, small picture) said that, while salary increases had moderated compared with the sharp rises seen in previous years, accountants were earning “significantly more” than before the pandemic.
“Average salary packages remain close to record levels, demonstrating the strength of demand for finance professionals and the continued value employers place on accountancy and finance expertise,” he stated.
Average salary packages for mid-career accountants (five years after qualification) also remain strong compared with historic levels, standing at €89,759 in 2026 – up 20% compared with 2018.
Newly qualified chartered accountants command average pay packages of €65,538, also well ahead of pre-pandemic levels.
More than half use AI
The survey shows that total pay for 88% of respondents has increased in the past three years, with 21% reporting a rise of more than 25%.
Just over three-quarters expect their total pay to increase within the next 12 months.
Just over half of chartered accountants (53%) use AI in some form to assist their day-to-day work – up from 28% in 2025.
Two-thirds of respondents feel that AI will have a positive impact on their career, with 13% believing it will have a negative impact.