Quantitative Analyst vs Accountant: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Quantitative Analyst
Build mathematical models for pricing, risk management, and algorithmic trading.
Accountant
Prepare and examine financial records, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Quantitative Analyst earns more on average — the national median is $21,970/year (26%) higher than a Accountant. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Quantitative Analyst vs Accountant — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Quantitative Analyst | Accountant | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $155,771 | $122,756 | Quantitative +$33,015 |
| New York, NY | $130,092 | $99,513 | Quantitative +$30,579 |
| Seattle, WA | $151,610 | $117,197 | Quantitative +$34,413 |
| Austin, TX | $116,913 | $94,568 | Quantitative +$22,345 |
| Chicago, IL | $113,324 | $88,290 | Quantitative +$25,034 |
| Boston, MA | $140,826 | $106,405 | Quantitative +$34,421 |
| London, UK | £80,687 | £62,254 | Quantitative +$18,433 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$142,880 | CA$94,614 | Quantitative +$48,266 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Quantitative Analyst or Accountant earn more?+
A Quantitative Analyst earns more on average. The national median salary for a Quantitative Analyst is $105,650/year, compared to $83,680/year for a Accountant — a difference of $21,970 (26%).
Which has better career growth — Quantitative Analyst or Accountant?+
Quantitative Analyst roles are growing at 18% YoY while Accountant demand is growing at 6% YoY. Quantitative Analyst has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Quantitative Analyst to 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 — Quantitative Analyst or Accountant?+
Quantitative Analyst has a lower AI automation risk (35% vs 78%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.