Accountant vs Insurance Agent: 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.
Insurance Agent
Sell and service insurance products for individuals and businesses.
Accountant earns more on average — the national median is $31,105/year (59%) higher than a Insurance Agent. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Accountant vs Insurance Agent — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Accountant | Insurance Agent | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $122,756 | $76,630 | Accountant +$46,126 |
| New York, NY | $99,513 | $64,658 | Accountant +$34,855 |
| Seattle, WA | $117,197 | $76,490 | Accountant +$40,707 |
| Austin, TX | $94,568 | $60,418 | Accountant +$34,150 |
| Chicago, IL | $88,290 | $56,339 | Accountant +$31,951 |
| Boston, MA | $106,405 | $67,008 | Accountant +$39,397 |
| London, UK | £62,254 | £40,898 | Accountant +$21,356 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$94,614 | CA$71,763 | Accountant +$22,851 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Accountant or Insurance Agent earn more?+
A Accountant earns more on average. The national median salary for a Accountant is $83,680/year, compared to $52,575/year for a Insurance Agent — a difference of $31,105 (59%).
Which has better career growth — Accountant or Insurance Agent?+
Accountant roles are growing at 6% YoY while Insurance Agent demand is growing at 6% YoY. Insurance Agent has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Accountant to Insurance Agent?+
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 Insurance Agent?+
Insurance Agent has a lower AI automation risk (42% vs 78%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.