Pay growth for CPAs outpaces inflation and doubles national workforce gains
Canadian Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) are earning more than ever, with 2024 median compensation reaching $154,000—the highest since CPA Canada began tracking in 2012.
The 2025 CPA Compensation Study, conducted by Leger, shows this represents a 47 percent increase over 12 years, underscoring the sustained demand for the designation.
Between 2022 and 2024, CPA median pay rose 7.7 percent, outpacing Canada’s 6.4 percent inflation rate and doubling the growth of the broader workforce.
Andy Thomas, vice-president of education at CPA Canada, said the designation “continues to offer a clear advantage in today’s job market—opening doors, building careers and delivering strong returns.”
The study also highlighted strong early-career earning potential, with CPAs in the profession for less than three years reporting a median salary of $92,000.
At 25 years of experience, compensation climbed to $194,000.
For comparison, Statistics Canada data showed the 2024 median for full-time Canadian workers at $70,000.
CPAs are increasingly assuming strategic roles in areas such as risk management, sustainability disclosure, and independent assurance. Their skills in navigating complex regulations and supporting long-term decision-making remain in high demand.
The report also found CPAs playing a growing role in artificial intelligence (AI) governance and assurance.
One in three respondents in the software and technology sector reported annual pay increases of 10 percent or more.
Thomas said CPAs are “at the forefront of some of the most urgent and complex issues facing businesses today.”
He added that as demand for trusted expertise grows, recognition of the CPA’s strategic value has also increased, as shown by rising compensation levels across the profession.
