Updated 2026High demand
Chartered Accountant salary in South Africa
Provides audit, tax and financial advisory services.
Expect R35 000 – R130 000/month, with top earners reaching R250 000+.
Salary breakdown
Entry
R35 000–R55 000
per month · up to R660 000/year
Mid
R75 000
per month · up to R900 000/year
Senior
R130 000
per month · up to R1 560 000/year
Top 20% earn R250 000+ per month in senior, specialist or leadership roles.
You may be underpaid. If you earn below R75 000, you are below market average.
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Market midpointR75 000
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Earning potential
Chartered Accountant pay is shaped by high demand, employer budgets and the depth of proven skill. Scarce skills in finance roles can lift senior pay quickly when experience is strong.
Compare careers by salaryComparison
Chartered Accountant vs Auditor
Chartered AccountantR130 000
AuditorR85 000
Higher salary: Chartered Accountant
+R45 000/month difference
Easier entry: Auditor
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Chartered AccountantR130 000
Financial AnalystR85 000
Higher salary: Chartered Accountant
+R45 000/month difference
Easier entry: Financial Analyst
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Chartered AccountantR130 000
Software EngineerR90 000
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Easier entry: Software Engineer
Full salary viewCompare in detail →Chartered Accountant vs Tax Consultant
Chartered AccountantR130 000
Tax ConsultantR95 000
Higher salary: Chartered Accountant
+R35 000/month difference
Easier entry: Tax Consultant
Full salary viewCompare in detail →Chartered Accountant vs Investment Analyst
Chartered AccountantR130 000
Investment AnalystR115 000
Higher salary: Chartered Accountant
+R15 000/month difference
Easier entry: Investment Analyst
Full salary viewCompare in detail →Recommended
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Career progression
Skills / requirements
Selected skill
IFRS
+R13 500/mo
Estimated salary impact for strong, job-ready capability.
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Demand
Chartered Accountant demand score9/10
Difficulty
Chartered Accountant difficulty score9/10
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FAQ
What does a CA(SA) earn?+
Newly qualified CAs start around R45–55k. CFOs earn R200k+ monthly.
Is CA worth it?+
Yes - one of SA's most prestigious and portable qualifications.
How long to qualify as CA?+
Around 7 years: 4 years study + 3 years SAICA articles.
Fast-track career options (6–12 months) →Big 4 or mid-tier?+
Big 4 articles open more doors but mid-tier offers broader experience.
Can I work abroad?+
Yes - CA(SA) is recognised globally, especially in UK, AU and UAE.
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