There's no single "best" Big 4 firm (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG); the best choice depends on your career focus, as each excels in different areas, with Deloitte often leading in overall size/consulting, PwC strong in audit/tax, EY noted for global management and tax, and KPMG strong in audit/transaction advisory, though reputations shift and all offer top-tier growth. For prestige, PwC & Deloitte are often seen as top, followed by EY, then KPMG, but individual strengths vary.
BDO – $14 billion (BDO Accounting Firm Information) RSM $10 billion. Grant Thornton – $8 billion. Crowe $ 5.8 billion.
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.
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.
Of the Big 4, KPMG is the smallest and also the only one operating outside of London—the firm's headquarters is in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
PwC and Deloitte are the most prestigious
If you ask most people about prestige, they'll probably rank PwC/Deloitte > EY > KPMG. This is reflected in pricing, for example.
KPMG is much better than Deloitte, PwC and EY! Best in work life balance, amazing culture and people centric firm ✨ KPMG best!!!!
Why Is Big 4 Consulting Considered an Industry Leader?
The single most important certification needed for a Big 4 career is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.
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.
If you want to earn a high salary, look at some of the jobs that pay $300,000 a year to the top earners.
A CPA's salary is often in the high five figures, with senior CPAs in management earning six figures. CPAs work in a variety of sectors, including forensic accounting, tax preparation, auditing, bookkeeping, and information technology, in both the commercial and public sectors, as well as for the federal government.
A $400K salary job typically refers to a high-paying position in industries like medicine, law, finance, or technology. These roles often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and years of experience. Examples include surgeons, top-level executives (CEOs, CFOs), investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs.