The Big 4 are the largest accounting and auditing firms in the world: Deloitte LLP (Deloitte), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY) and Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG). They're so big that their joint revenue in 2024 was—you guessed it—$212 billion.
The Big Four are the four largest professional services networks in the world: Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC. They are the four largest global accounting networks as measured by revenue.
Because big4 is not referring to consulting... they're the 4 largest public accounting firms in the world, and the gap between the lowest big4(KPMG), and #5(BDO) is massive.
Why Are They Called the Big 4? They are called Big 4 accounting firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG) not only because of their size but also because of their immense leadership role in shaping global auditing standards, tax frameworks, and corporate governance practices.
Can accountants make 300k? Yes, it is possible for accountants to make $300,000 a year or more, especially those working in public accounting or executive finance roles. However, salaries at this high level typically require extensive experience, professional qualifications, and a track record of success.
PwC and Deloitte are the most prestigious
PwC and Deloitte will cost more, EY somewhere in the middle, and KPMG will sometimes even take a hit on their margin in order to get the project (so they can use that to build better relationships with the client).
Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant? It is possible, but labor market data suggests it is rare for accountants to earn such a lofty annual salary.
What is the starting salary at Big 4 firms?
The Big 4 are the largest accounting and auditing firms in the world: Deloitte LLP (Deloitte), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY) and Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG). They're so big that their joint revenue in 2024 was—you guessed it—$212 billion.
Alphabet. Alphabet, the parent company of Google, is audited by EY, according to its statement following the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Alphabet paid EY $6.5 million in fees for auditing and other professional services across its 2024 fiscal year, the statement shows.
The highest salary at KPMG consulting can exceed $400,000 annually at the director level, with total pay influenced by base salary, performance bonuses, and profit sharing. In rare cases, senior leaders or partners may earn higher, depending on business generation and long-term firm contributions.
The single most important certification needed for a Big 4 career is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
Accounting is the daily process of recording financial transactions, managing data, and maintaining records. Auditing is a periodic process that focuses on ensuring the accuracy and legality of financial statements.
Deloitte Clients
Deloitte recognizes that the key to success goes beyond learning and coaching support. As they work to achieve their professional designation, our students receive ample study time (through both paid and unpaid days) and financial support for annual fees and CPA tuition.
PwC pay FAQs
The average salary for a Cpa is $238,145 per year (estimate) in US, which is 40% higher than the average PwC salary of $169,876 per year (estimate) for this job.
You're Tired of Working Late
The Big Four are notorious for their late nights. When it comes to work-life balance, they typically score low on employee satisfaction surveys. This is because their hours are long, and they tend to demand a lot. While a good job is a challenging one, there is a limit.
Top 15 Highest Paying Accounting Jobs (Inc Salaries)
If you want to earn a high salary, look at some of the jobs that pay $300,000 a year to the top earners.
With that caveat, earning $250,000 per year means you're at least in a solid position to consider a $1 million house. If you're running the numbers and come to the conclusion a $1 million sticker price is a stretch for you, don't panic.
KPMG is much better than Deloitte, PwC and EY! Best in work life balance, amazing culture and people centric firm ✨ KPMG best!!!!
The main difference between an accountant and a CPA is their level of education and training. Most jobs available to private accountants only require a bachelor's degree, but to work in public accounting, professionals must earn their CPA license.
According to the consultants we spoke to, the Big 4 hire from a wide range of degrees. That said, some degrees are more common, especially for more specialized types of consulting. Personally, I had a finance degree and I know there are a lot of people with accounting degrees, finance degrees, and economics degrees.