Auditor Salary Guide

Auditors examine financial records, internal controls, and compliance to ensure accuracy and adherence to laws and standards. They identify risks, recommend improvements, and provide assurance to stakeholders through internal, external, or IT audits.

What is the average Auditor salary?

Entry Level

$55,000 - $70,000

Mid Level

$70,000 - $95,000

Senior Level

$95,000 - $140,000

How does Auditor salary grow with experience?

$55,000 - $68,000

0-2

$68,000 - $85,000

2-5

$85,000 - $115,000

5-10

$110,000 - $180,000++

10+

Base (min)

Top of range (max)

Max: $180k

Auditor salary by location

New York, NY$75,000 - $150,000

San Francisco, CA$80,000 - $155,000

Chicago, IL$68,000 - $125,000

Seattle, WA$70,000 - $130,000

Austin, TX$65,000 - $120,000

Base (min)

Top of range (max)

What factors affect a Auditor's salary?

Professional certifications (CPA, CIA, CISA, CFE)
Industry specialization (financial services, tech, healthcare)
Location and local cost of living
Scope of responsibility (external vs internal audit, supervisory duties)
Technical skills (data analytics, IT audit, ERP experience)

Frequently Asked Questions About Auditor Salaries

What is the average salary for an auditor in the United States?

The average auditor salary in the U.S. varies by level: entry $55k–$70k, mid $70k–$95k, and senior $95k–$140k annually depending on location, industry, and credentials.

Which certifications increase an auditor's salary the most?

CPAs and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) credentials typically yield the largest salary bumps, with additional value from CISA for IT audit and advanced certifications like CFE for forensic roles.

How can auditors increase their pay quickly?

Focus on earning high-value certifications (CPA/CIA/CISA), gain industry-specialized experience (financial services, tech, healthcare), develop data analytics skills, and pursue supervisory or client-facing roles.

Do location and industry affect auditor pay?

Yes. Major finance and tech hubs and industries like investment banking, Big Four firms, and technology typically pay more than smaller markets, government, or nonprofit roles.