Chartered Accountancy (CA) is one of the most respected and financially rewarding professions in India. Every year, thousands of students prepare for CA exams with the hope of building a stable, high-paying career. But one common question every aspiring CA asks is: How much does a CA earn in India? The answer depends on several factors such as experience, skills, job role, company, and location. Let’s explore this in detail.
1. Starting Salary of a Fresh CA
A newly qualified CA in India earns between ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh per year on average.
However, this range is influenced by:
- The rank secured in CA exams
- Articleship experience
- Domain skills (audit, taxation, finance, consulting, etc.)
- The type of company hiring
Top performers earn more
A CA who clears exams in the first attempt or becomes an all-India ranker often receives some of the highest packages. Many rankers get ₹15–₹20 lakh per year as starting salary from top firms.
2. Salary of CAs in Big 4 Companies
The Big 4 firms—Deloitte, KPMG, EY, and PwC—are among the most preferred employers for fresh CAs.
Average salary in Big 4:
- ₹8–₹12 lakh per year for freshers
- ₹15–₹25 lakh per year for experienced CAs (4–6 years)
- ₹30–₹50 lakh+ per year for senior managers and partners
Working in Big 4 firms also provides global exposure, training, and strong career growth.
3. Salary of CAs in Corporate Companies
Large companies like Tata, Reliance, Infosys, HCL, ITC, and banks also hire CAs for roles in taxation, finance, auditing, and compliance.
Typical corporate salaries:
- Entry-level CA: ₹7–₹10 lakh per year
- Mid-level CA: ₹12–₹20 lakh per year
- Senior-level CA: ₹20–₹40 lakh per year
CAs working in industries like finance, FMCG, manufacturing, and IT often earn higher salaries.
4. Government Jobs for CAs
CAs also work in PSUs, RBI, SEBI, Income Tax Department, and other government or semi-government organisations.
Salary Range:
- Fresh CA: ₹6–₹12 lakh per year
- Higher posts: ₹15–₹25 lakh per year
- Additional perks: Housing, travel allowance, pension benefits
Government jobs offer better work-life balance compared to private companies.
5. Self-Employed and Practice-Based CAs
Many CAs choose to start their own firm rather than work in a company. Salary in practice varies widely depending on clients and reputation.
Earnings in CA practice:
- Initial stage: ₹3–₹6 lakh per year
- 3–5 years experience: ₹10–₹20 lakh per year
- Established firms: ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore+ per year
Top CAs who handle high-profile clients can earn even more.
6. Location-Based Salary Variation
CA salaries differ from city to city.
Highest-paying cities:
- Mumbai
- Delhi NCR
- Bangalore
- Hyderabad
These metro cities offer salaries that are 20–40% higher than tier-2 towns due to better job opportunities and higher cost of living.
7. Skills That Increase a CA’s Salary
CAs who specialise in certain fields earn significantly more. High-paying skills include:
- Forensic accounting
- International taxation
- Financial modelling
- Risk management
- Mergers & acquisitions
- Statutory audit
- GST and corporate tax
Adding certifications like CFA, FRM, or MBA can further boost salary.
Conclusion
The salary of a Chartered Accountant in India varies widely based on experience, skills, and career choices. On average, a CA earns ₹7–₹10 lakh per year as a fresher and can go up to ₹50 lakh or even ₹1 crore+ with experience and specialisation. Whether working in the Big 4, corporate sector, government jobs, or starting their own practice, CAs enjoy a stable, respected, and financially rewarding career.
