Accountant vs ESG Analyst: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Accountant
Prepare and examine financial records, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
ESG Analyst
Assess environmental, social, and governance factors in investment decisions.
ESG Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $19,060/year (23%) higher than a Accountant. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Accountant vs ESG Analyst — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Accountant | ESG Analyst | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $122,756 | $150,970 | Accountant $28,214 |
| New York, NY | $99,513 | $128,930 | Accountant $29,417 |
| Seattle, WA | $117,197 | $150,261 | Accountant $33,064 |
| Austin, TX | $94,568 | $111,571 | Accountant $17,003 |
| Chicago, IL | $88,290 | $112,333 | Accountant $24,043 |
| Boston, MA | $106,405 | $134,464 | Accountant $28,059 |
| London, UK | £62,254 | £81,801 | Accountant $19,547 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$94,614 | CA$133,398 | Accountant $38,784 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Accountant or ESG Analyst earn more?+
A ESG Analyst earns more on average. The national median salary for a Accountant is $83,680/year, compared to $102,740/year for a ESG Analyst — a difference of $19,060 (23%).
Which has better career growth — Accountant or ESG Analyst?+
Accountant roles are growing at 6% YoY while ESG Analyst demand is growing at 35% YoY. ESG Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Accountant to ESG Analyst?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Accountant or ESG Analyst?+
ESG Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 78%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.