Portfolio Manager vs Certified Public Accountant: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Portfolio Manager
Manage investment portfolios to maximise returns for clients.
Certified Public Accountant
Licensed accounting professional who handles complex tax and audit engagements.
Portfolio Manager earns more on average — the national median is $19,060/year (23%) higher than a Certified Public Accountant. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Portfolio Manager vs Certified Public Accountant — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Portfolio Manager | Certified Public Accountant | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $151,713 | $122,052 | Portfolio +$29,661 |
| New York, NY | $123,694 | $101,470 | Portfolio +$22,224 |
| Seattle, WA | $146,467 | $115,604 | Portfolio +$30,863 |
| Austin, TX | $113,384 | $94,883 | Portfolio +$18,501 |
| Chicago, IL | $109,474 | $92,214 | Portfolio +$17,260 |
| Boston, MA | $136,585 | $107,079 | Portfolio +$29,506 |
| London, UK | £78,248 | £67,379 | Portfolio +$10,869 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,044 | CA$108,659 | Portfolio +$29,385 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Portfolio Manager or Certified Public Accountant earn more?+
A Portfolio Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Portfolio Manager is $102,740/year, compared to $83,680/year for a Certified Public Accountant — a difference of $19,060 (23%).
Which has better career growth — Portfolio Manager or Certified Public Accountant?+
Portfolio Manager roles are growing at 12% YoY while Certified Public Accountant demand is growing at 8% YoY. Portfolio Manager has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Portfolio Manager to Certified Public Accountant?+
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 — Portfolio Manager or Certified Public Accountant?+
Portfolio Manager has a lower AI automation risk (42% vs 68%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.