Finding accurate data on accounting salaries can be challenging, especially when looking at specific locations like Kansas.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of accounting wages across industries, experience levels, and Kansas cities - giving you the details you need to benchmark salaries.
You'll see key factors impacting accountant pay, from wheat and renewable energy influencing wages to the premiums commanded at upper levels. We summarize average salaries for roles like staff accountant, financial analyst, and tax accountant while spotlighting high-paying metro areas.
The Landscape of Accounting Salaries in Kansas
Accounting is a stable and well-compensated profession in Kansas. The state has a diversified economy spanning key industries like agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and financial services that require accounting expertise. This high demand, combined with the affordable cost of living in Kansas, makes it an attractive destination for accountants.
The Influence of Wheat and Wind on Kansas Accounting Wages
Kansas is known as the "Wheat State" and a leader in wind energy. These major industries impact accounting salaries:
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Agriculture drives demand for roles like Grain Accountants and Cooperative Accountants at organizations like CHS Inc and Heartland Co-op. Competitive salaries attract talent.
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Growth in renewable energy (wind farms) creates accounting jobs to handle financing, tax credits, project costing and more. Lucrative salaries compared to cost of living.
Trends and Projections for Accounting Job Growth in Kansas
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6% job growth projected for accountants in Kansas through 2026, faster than national average.
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Rising demand for accounting services as Kansas works to attract financial services companies.
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Increased need for accountants in tech roles handling data analysis and accounting software implementation.
Determinants of Accountant Salary in Kansas: Experience, Certification, and Cost of Living
Factors impacting accountant salaries in Kansas:
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Experience level - higher pay for senior roles ($75K+) vs entry level ($45K).
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Certifications like CPA lead to higher compensation.
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Location matters - higher salaries in cities and metro areas.
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Low cost of living allows wages to go further compared to other states.
How much does an Accountant make in Wichita KS?
Accountants in Wichita, KS earn competitive salaries, with plenty of room for advancement. Here's a breakdown of common accounting wages in the area:
Annual Salary
- Top Earners (75th Percentile): $84,987
- Average: $58,158
- 25th Percentile: $47,900
Hourly Wage
- Top Earners (75th Percentile): $41
- Average: $28
- 25th Percentile: $23
Accounting salaries in Wichita vary based on experience level. Senior accountants and CPAs tend to be the top earners, while entry-level accountants and bookkeepers earn less. Industry also impacts wages - accountants in finance, banking, and tech tend to earn higher salaries.
Overall, the accounting job market is strong in Wichita. Major local employers like Koch Industries, Spirit AeroSystems, and Cargill offer competitive compensation and benefits to attract top talent. The lower cost of living compared to larger metro areas also gives Wichita accountants more buying power from their salaries.
With solid job prospects and room for advancement, Wichita remains an attractive location for accountants to grow their careers while enjoying a high quality of life.
What is the highest paid area of accounting?
Some of the highest paying accounting jobs include:
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Accounting Professor: Professors with accounting expertise can earn an average salary of $77,400 per year. They work in university settings educating the next generation of accounting professionals.
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Director of Finance & Administration: These directors manage the financial and administrative operations of companies or organizations. Their average salary is $88,900 annually.
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Corporate Controller: Controllers oversee all accounting functions and financial reporting within a company. It is a high level position with commensurate pay.
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Internal Auditing Manager: These managers lead teams that ensure financial records are accurate and that best practices are being followed. They earn salaries well above $100,000 on average.
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Investment Banker: Bankers that focus on high value mergers, acquisitions, and other investment activities can see compensation into the millions in some cases.
In general, accounting careers with high levels of responsibility, advanced certifications like a CPA, and roles in lucrative industries offer some of the top pay in the field. Government data shows the median salary for accountants and auditors nationwide is $77,250.
What are the best salaries for accountants?
Some of the highest paying accounting jobs include:
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CFO: The Chief Financial Officer oversees all financial operations. Salary range is typically $141,000 to $400,000 per year.
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Audit Partner: Audit partners manage teams that review companies' financial statements. They earn $215,000 to $360,000 per year on average.
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Paymaster: Paymasters manage payroll processing and employees' pay. Salaries range from $31,000 to $350,000 depending on experience and company size.
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Chief Accounting Officer: The CAO is responsible for accounting operations and financial reporting. Average pay is $131,000 to $278,000 annually.
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Vice President of Finance: The VP of Finance analyzes financial performance and guides strategic decisions. Compensation packages often exceed $200,000.
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Fund Controller: Fund controllers supervise accounting for investment funds. Salaries tend to start around $100,000.
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Finance Manager: Finance managers plan budgets, oversee accounting, and analyze costs. Average salary is approximately $85,000 to $175,000 per year.
The highest salaries go to CPAs and controllers with specialized expertise managing finances for major corporations, investment firms, or government agencies. Geographic location also impacts accountants' earning potential.
What is the highest paid cost accountant?
The highest reported salary offered to a Cost Accountant in India is ₹36.0 lakhs per year. According to payscale.com data, the top 10% of Cost Accountants earn more than ₹30.1 lakhs per year.
Some key factors that influence the salaries of Cost Accountants include:
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Years of experience - More experienced Cost Accountants tend to earn higher salaries. Those with 5-10 years of experience can expect average salaries over ₹15 lakhs per year.
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Industry - Cost Accountants working in banking, financial services, and IT services tend to earn higher salaries than those in other industries.
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Location - Cost Accountants working in major metro areas like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi earn more than those working in smaller cities.
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Company size - Larger corporations tend to pay Cost Accountants higher salaries than smaller companies. Multinational corporations offer some of the highest salaries.
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Certifications - Earning additional certifications like CMA or Six Sigma can boost a Cost Accountant's salary.
So in summary, the highest paid Cost Accountants are likely highly experienced professionals working for large multinational corporations in major metro areas, especially in banking, financial services, and IT services. Those with advanced certifications also command top-tier salaries.
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Junior to Senior: Progressing Accounting Salaries in Kansas
This section will break down salaries in Kansas for common accounting jobs from entry-level to senior positions.
Junior Accounting Salaries in Kansas: The Starting Line
Entry-level accountants in Kansas, such as Accountant I and Bookkeeping Manager roles, typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 per year. The average salary for early career accounting professionals is around $45,000.
Factors impacting junior salaries include:
- Education level - Those with a bachelor's degree tend to earn more than those without.
- Firm size - Larger companies and corporations tend to pay more than small businesses.
- Location - Accountants in major metro areas earn slightly higher salaries.
Overall, junior accountants in Kansas are compensated fairly well compared to other entry-level professional roles. There is room for salary growth as experience is gained.
Mid-Career Advancement: Corporate Staff Accountant and Financial Analyst Salaries
With 3-5 years of experience, accountants can expect to see their salaries rise substantially. Mid-career roles like Corporate Staff Accountant and Financial Analyst typically earn between $60,000 and $85,000 in Kansas.
The average salary for intermediate accounting professionals is approximately $72,500 per year. This represents a 60% increase over entry-level pay.
Factors impacting mid-career salaries include:
- Specialization - CPAs and accountants with niche expertise command higher salaries.
- Leadership - Supervisory and management roles are better compensated.
- Industry - Banking, finance, and technology tend to pay more than other sectors.
Mid-career accountants enjoy pay levels on par with other skilled professions in Kansas. There is ample opportunity to continue advancing.
Senior Accounting Salaries in Kansas: The Leadership Premium
With 5+ years under their belt, accountants can attain senior status. Roles like Senior Accountant, Accounting Manager, and Controller average between $85,000 and $120,000 per year.
The average salary for senior accountants is approximately $102,500. This represents a 40% increase compared to mid-career pay.
Factors impacting senior salaries include:
- Management - Overseeing teams and corporate accounting functions command the highest pay.
- Technical skills - Expertise in complex areas like taxation and auditing is highly valued.
- Industry leadership - Becoming an influential figurehead in a particular sector can maximize pay.
Senior accountants in Kansas earn salaries on par with other senior professionals and managers. Their specialized skills and leadership abilities are handsomely rewarded financially.
Kansas Accounting Salaries Across Different Industries
Accounting is a diverse field with opportunities across many industries in Kansas. While salaries can vary, accountants play a critical role in the financial health and success of any organization.
Wheat and Numbers: Accounting Salaries in Kansas Agriculture
The agriculture industry is the largest sector of Kansas' economy. With over 40% of land used for crops like wheat, there is high demand for accountants to track finances and ensure fiscal responsibility.
Typical salaries for agricultural accountants in Kansas:
- Grain Accountant: $45,000 - $65,000
- Plant Accountant: $50,000 - $75,000
While agricultural accounting salaries skew lower than other industries, many accountants appreciate the mission-driven nature of co-ops and appreciating farmland assets.
Harnessing the Wind: Salaries for Renewable Energy Industry Accountants
With abundant wind resources, Kansas is a leading state for wind power generation. Accountants are needed to manage finances for wind farms and related infrastructure.
Common roles and salaries include:
- Plant Controller: $80,000 - $120,000
- Cost Accountant I: $60,000 - $90,000
The renewable energy industry offers higher wages to attract top talent capable of navigating complex regulatory and tax structures.
Financial Services and Banking: Pay for Finance Accountants
Major Kansas banks and financial services firms also employ accountants to analyze investments, manage funds, and ensure accurate reporting.
Several common positions and salary ranges:
- Investment Accountant: $70,000 - $100,000
- Fund Accountant: $60,000 - $80,000
The specialized nature of banking and financial accounting allows these professionals to command higher base compensation and bonuses.
In summary, accounting salaries in Kansas vary across industries but offer stability and growth opportunities.
Geographical Variations in Kansas Accounting Salaries
Urban vs. Rural: Accounting Pay Disparities in Kansas
Accounting salaries in Kansas tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural regions. Major cities like Wichita, Overland Park, and Kansas City offer more job opportunities and higher wages for accountants. However, rural areas have a lower cost of living, allowing salaries to stretch further.
For example, an entry-level accountant in Wichita may earn around $45,000 per year, while a similar role in a small rural town may pay around $35,000. However, housing costs are nearly 50% less in many rural counties. Accountants should weigh career prospects against living expenses when considering locations in Kansas.
City Spotlight: Accountant Salary Comparison Across Kansas Metropolises
Wichita, the largest city in Kansas, offers competitive salaries for accountants. Senior corporate accountants earn an average of $75,000 per year. The aerospace and healthcare industries drive demand. Overland Park, part of the Kansas City metro area, offers high salaries too. A financial analyst can expect around $70,000. Accounting wages track slightly under the national average.
Smaller cities still present solid opportunities. In Topeka, accountants average $60,000 per year across experience levels. Entry-level general ledger accountants start around $40,000. Salina and Hutchinson pay 5-10% under Topeka for similar roles. Overall, major Kansas cities pay on par for the region.
The Remote Revolution: Location-Neutral Accounting Salaries
Remote work unlocks new potential for Kansas accountants. No longer geographically bound, accountants can maintain rural or suburban lifestyles while earning big-city salaries. Entry-level remote accountants make around $55,000 on average. Mid-career controllers and analysts earn over $90,000 remotely.
As remote culture grows, accounting wages in Kansas should rise. Accountants gain access to a wider talent pool while employers tap cost-effective rural labor. This revolution could lead accounting salaries in Kansas to outpace national averages.
Maximizing Earning Potential for Kansas Accountants
The Experience Effect: From Accountant I to Senior Staff Accountant
Entry-level accountants in Kansas can expect to earn around $45,000 per year. With 3-5 years of experience, accountants typically reach the Senior Accountant level, with average salaries increasing to $65,000. After 5-7 years, promotion to Senior Staff Accountant can boost earnings further to over $75,000 on average.
While entry-level accounting salaries in Kansas lag national averages, experience brings rapid pay increases. Developing expertise in areas like financial reporting, budgeting, and auditing makes accountants more valuable over time.
Certification as a Salary Catalyst: The CPA Advantage
Earning the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential provides a significant boost to accountant salaries in Kansas. CPAs earn $15,000-20,000 more on average than accountants without certification.
The pay equity implications are clear - CPAs command higher compensation for their specialized skills and credentials. For accountants seeking to maximize salaries, obtaining a CPA license delivers outsized rewards.
Specialized Skills, Specialized Pay: From Tax Accountant to Financial Reporting Accountant
Beyond experience and credentials, developing expertise in high-value specialties also drives increased pay for Kansas accountants. Two lucrative specialties are:
Tax Accounting: Preparing tax returns and navigating complex tax codes earns average pay over $80,000 per year.
Financial Reporting: Accountants with financial statement and reporting skills can earn $95,000 or more in controller and analyst roles.
Niche skills in areas like tax, reporting, budgeting, and auditing create wider pay variance than general accounting roles. Specializing is key for accountants to advance into higher salary tiers over their careers.
Kansas Accounting Salaries in a Nutshell: Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Recap of Average Salaries for Diverse Accounting Roles
Accounting salaries in Kansas vary based on role, with junior accountants typically earning $45,000 to $55,000 and senior cost accountants earning $75,000 to $95,000. Here is a recap of average salaries for some common accounting jobs:
- Junior Accountant: $45,000 - $55,000
- Staff Accountant: $55,000 - $68,000
- Senior Accountant: $68,000 - $85,000
- Accounting Manager: $75,000 - $105,000
- Controller: $95,000 - $150,000
- CPA: $60,000 - $120,000+
Salaries are ultimately driven by factors like education, credentials, experience, company size, industry, and location within Kansas.
Prime Locations and Industries for Maximum Wages
Some cities and industries tend to pay higher accounting wages in Kansas:
- Wichita - Major aviation and manufacturing hub with salaries 5-10% above state average.
- Kansas City Metro - Large job market with salaries comparable to national rates.
- Energy Sector - Oil, natural gas, and green energy jobs tend to pay 10-15% premiums.
CPAs and accountants with specialized expertise also command higher compensation, especially in niche industries like healthcare, banking, and agriculture.
Long-Term Financial Outlook for Kansas Accountants
The long-term salary potential for accountants in Kansas depends heavily on:
- Education level - CPAs average 20-30% higher pay than accountants with a bachelor's degree. Other credentials boost pay as well.
- Years of experience - Salaries typically rise steadily with 5+ years experience.
- Specialization - Developing expertise in areas like taxation, audit, FP&A unlocks better opportunities.
- Company size - Larger firms have more extensive salary grading scales.
Overall, the future looks bright for accounting professionals in Kansas as business complexity and regulation drives demand. Positioning yourself to take advantage of these trends through education and experience can pay major dividends over your career.
