If we talk about India’s highest paying job, Chartered Accountant (CA) is one of the most respected and highest-paying professional qualifications job. In short-term CAs are the backbone of the financial ecosystem. They handle taxation, audits, corporate finance, compliance, advisory, and strategic decision-making for businesses and governments alike. Now the question is ” What is CA salary”, lets find out.
CA’s salary varies widely based on experience, skillset, sector, role, location, and global exposure.
This article provides a complete breakdown of CA salary in India, from freshers to senior professionals and global earners.
Who Is a Chartered Accountant (CA)?
CA also stands for Chartered Accountant is a qualified finance professional who handle all the following tasks:
- Accounting and financial reporting
- Taxation from direct to indirect
- Auditing & assurance
- Corporate finance
- Risk management
- Business advisory
- Regulatory & compliance matters
They work across private companies, audit firms, banks, startups, government bodies, and global corporations.
CA Salary Overview in India
Average CAs Salary Range
- Freshers: ₹7 – ₹10 lakh per annum
- Experienced CAs: ₹15 – ₹40 lakh per annum
- Top-level professionals: ₹50 lakh – ₹2 crore+ per annum
It is one of the highest ROI professional courses in India with some hardcore skills.
CA Salary for Freshers in India
Freshly qualified CAs usually start in roles such as:
- Audit Associate
- Tax Consultant
- Financial Analyst
- Accounts Manager
Fresher CA Salary
- ₹7 – ₹10 LPA (average)
- Top campus placements can go up to ₹15–20 LPA
CA Salary Based on Experience
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Fresher (0–1 year) | ₹7 – ₹10 LPA |
| 2–4 Years | ₹10 – ₹18 LPA |
| 5–8 Years | ₹18 – ₹35 LPA |
| 10+ Years | ₹35 – ₹70 LPA |
| Leadership / Partner Level | ₹1 Cr+ |
Chartered Accountant Salary by Job Profile
| Role | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Audit Manager | ₹10 – ₹20 LPA |
| Tax Consultant | ₹8 – ₹18 LPA |
| Financial Controller | ₹20 – ₹40 LPA |
| CFO | ₹40 LPA – ₹2 Cr+ |
| Risk & Compliance Head | ₹18 – ₹35 LPA |
| Investment Banker (CA) | ₹25 – ₹60 LPA |
CA Salary in Different Sectors
1. CAs Salary in Big 4 Firms
If you thinking of earning some highest package then Big 4 firms offer excellent exposure and global opportunities.
Freshers:
- ₹8 – ₹12 LPA
Managers:
- ₹18 – ₹30 LPA
Partners:
- ₹1 Cr+ per annum
2. Chartered Accountant Salary in Corporate Sector
| Company Type | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| MNCs | ₹12 – ₹35 LPA |
| Indian Conglomerates | ₹10 – ₹30 LPA |
| Startups | ₹8 – ₹25 LPA |
3. Chartered Accountant Salary in Practice (Own Firm)
CAs running their own practice have no income ceiling.
- Initial Years: ₹5 – ₹10 LPA
- Established Practice: ₹25 – ₹1 Cr+ per annum
Income depends on:
- Client base
- Expertise (GST, International Tax, Valuation)
- Reputation and network
CA Salary by Specialization
| Specialization | Salary Potential |
|---|---|
| International Taxation | Very High |
| Forensic Audit | High |
| Valuation & M&A | Very High |
| Insolvency Professional | High |
| Transfer Pricing | Very High |
CA Salary by Location (India)
| City | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | ₹12 – ₹35 LPA |
| Delhi NCR | ₹10 – ₹30 LPA |
| Bengaluru | ₹10 – ₹28 LPA |
| Chennai | ₹8 – ₹25 LPA |
| Tier-2 Cities | ₹6 – ₹15 LPA |
CA Salary Abroad
| Country | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| UAE | ₹25 – ₹50 LPA (tax-free) |
| UK | ₹40 – ₹70 LPA |
| USA | ₹50 – ₹90 LPA |
| Canada | ₹45 – ₹80 LPA |
| Australia | ₹40 – ₹75 LPA |
CA Salary vs Other Top Professions
| Profession | Avg Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Chartered Accountant | ₹7 – ₹40 LPA |
| MBA (Top B-Schools) | ₹10 – ₹35 LPA |
| Software Architect | ₹15 – ₹50 LPA |
| IAS Officer | ₹15 – ₹25 LPA |
| Doctor (Specialist) | ₹12 – ₹50 LP |
Why Chartered Accountant Salary Grows Rapidly
- Low supply, high demand
- Mandatory requirement in companies
- Trusted professional status
- Wide career flexibility
- Global recognition
Challenges in CA Career
- Tough qualification process
- Long working hours during peak seasons
- Continuous learning required
- High responsibility and accountability
FAQ’s
₹7–10 LPA in India.
Yes, senior professionals, partners, and CFOs can earn more.
Valuation, M&A, International Tax, and CFO roles.
It depend on experience and skill but both job have high earning profile.
Yes, as per demand there will be CA job will be never be a outdated job.
Conclusion
The salary of a CA reflects responsibility, skills, and trust correlated to the profession. Their salary packages start from ₹7 lakh for freshers to ₹1 Crore+ for senior leaders which show its one of best job in any country.
Whether you are serving in Big 4, corporates, start-ups, or lone runner you will certainly earn high salary. All you need experience, expertise, and strategic moves.
Also, Read: Cabin Crew Salary | UP Home Guard Salary | Lighthouse Job Salary