The state of New York is rich in diversity and business activity. A national and global hub for business and financial services, New York offers some of the most fertile ground for prospective accounting professionals.
The Empire State hosts more than200,000 businesses and holds nearly $9 trillion in its financial institutions. That means there are plenty of opportunities for new graduates looking to gain footholds in the accounting industry. In fact, the state has some of the largest workforces of accountants, auditors, financial analysts, and financial managers in the country.
New York also has the second-most degree-granting institutions among states, as per the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Accounting students in the state have access to one of the widest selections of programs anywhere in the world.
Make the most of your decision by learning about the best accounting schools in New York and the many career options the state has to offer.
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Top Accounting Degrees in New York
Explore the top accounting programs in New York. The following five schools offer a bachelor's degree in accounting. Learn more about how we rank these schools at the link below.
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New York at a Glance
| Population | 19,835,913 |
|---|---|
| Climate | Average Annual Temperature: 45.4 F Annual Precipitation: 41.8 inches |
| Major Sports Teams | New York Yankees, New York Mets, New York Giants, New York Jets, New York Knicks |
| Number of Higher Learning Institutions | 283 |
| Per Capita Income | $43,208 |
| Fortune 500 Companies | 53 |
| Accountants in New York | 118,870 |
Why Get an Accounting Degree in New York?
The sheer amount of educational opportunities in New York makes it one of the most desirable destinations for prospective accounting students. According to NCES, New York has over 280 colleges and universities and over 1.5 million postsecondary students.
Along with study options, New York provides financial support to its students. Per LendEDU, the state awards over $375,000 annually in need-based scholarships and grants.
The best accounting schools in New York also leverage the state's booming financial services industry. Three of the Big Four accounting firms have national headquarters in New York, including Deloitte, EY, and PwC. Accounting students may have access to internships and career opportunities with these industry-leading organizations.
The state's schools benefit from the surrounding business and financial services hub in other ways as well. College faculties recruit experienced New York accountants to teach classes, mentor students, and run workshops and speaker series.
Many of the accounting degrees in New York feature state-specific specializations and pathways. Some lead to high-growth or in-demand fields. Others meet New York's unique requirements for professional certification and licensure.
Education Statistics for New York
A national education leader, New York is home to nearly 10% of the country's four-year postsecondary schools. New York also commits more funding to its schools and its students than the national average. As a result, the state's educational attainment levels exceed the national averages at every level of postsecondary education.
| Higher Education Statistics | New York Data | National Data |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Year Colleges | 225 | 2,520 |
| Two-Year Colleges | 58 | 1,216 |
| Students Enrolled in Distance Education | 52.3% | 72.8% |
| Postsecondary Education Appropriations per Full-Time Student | $12,428 | $9,327 |
| Tax Revenue Allocated to Higher Education | $18,191 | $15,959 |
| Adults Over 25 With an Associate Degree | 8.9% | 8.6% |
| Adults Over 25 With a Bachelor's Degree | 21.3% | 20.2% |
| Adults Over 25 With a Graduate Degree or Higher | 16.8% | 12.7% |
Accreditation for New York Schools
Accreditation provides students with quality assurance and peace of mind. Schools must be institutionally accredited in order for learners to qualify for federal financial aid. Most professional certifying and licensing organizations also require applicants to possess degrees from accredited schools.
In New York, many schools hold accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
While not mandatory for all pathways, programmatic accreditation may be helpful for accounting students as well. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs all accredit business and accounting programs.
Delivery Formats for an Accounting Degree in New York
With so many accounting schools in New York, prospective students will find all kinds of delivery formats and program types. Online programs play a big role in accommodating New York's diverse student body.
The state has a higher-than-average percentage of students taking no online classes, but it also has a higher-than-average percentage of students taking some online classes.
To make the best decision, candidates need to factor in their scheduling and learning needs. The sections below outline what the major formats offer and how they differ. Consider how each one might affect your success and learning experience.
On-Campus Programs
New York is home to some of the nation's most diverse and prestigious schools. On-campus accounting programs give learners the chance to connect to the community and facilities. Students who want a high level of classroom engagement and interaction might choose this path.
Online Programs
Online programs typically feature evening, weekend, or completely asynchronous classes. Online students enjoy reduced travel and more independent learning experiences. This makes online programs a good option for self-motivated learners who need to fit studies around work or other commitments.
Hybrid Programs
Hybrid programs combine online and on-campus programs. Students get to experience the flexibility of online study and the interaction of on-campus learning. This option works well for busy students who live near campus.
Paying for Your Accounting Degree
New York's four-year public schools offer lower-than-average tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. Conversely, prices from the state's private schools far exceed the national average.
To cover the costs of an accounting degree, students can draw from many financial aid sources, including federal financial aid. New York students also have access to state financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs.
The links below provide more information on the different support channels available.
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
As in most other states, New York offers considerably lower tuition rates for in-state students than for out-of-state students. New York contributes a significant amount of funding to reduce tuition rates for in-state learners. This helps keep talented professionals near home.
While higher than the in-state rates, out-of-state tuition rates in New York are still lower than in all but five states, according to NCES. New York does not have any tuition reciprocity agreements in place with other states. However, individual schools may have tuition agreements set up for out-of-state learners.
Cost of Living in New York
Prospective students also need to consider the state's cost of living when budgeting for their education. Unfortunately for New York students, the impact can be significant.
New York has the second-highest cost of living index in the country at 148.2, nearly 50% higher than the national baseline of 100. The state has the second-highest housing and fourth-highest grocery costs.
Accounting Jobs in New York
According to the Urban Institute, New York had a slightly higher unemployment rate (4%) than the national average (3.4%) in April 2023. New York hosts more than 10% of the Fortune 500 companies. The state also has the country's highest extreme wealth concentration.
New York also has a presence of each of the Big Four firms. It has the second-largest accounting workforce and the second-highest accounting wages in the country, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). It also has the third-largest business and financial workforce and second-highest wages.
Below, we spotlight three of the most popular accounting careers in the state. We examine the specifics of the accounting jobs in New York, including job requirements and outlook.
Popular Accounting Careers in New York
Accountants
Accountants provide financial analysis and management services to individuals and organizations. They may provide insight related to taxes, financial planning, risk management, and efficiency. Most accounting jobs in New York require a bachelor's degree at a minimum.
Job Outlook in New York (2020-2030): +16.5%
Bookkeepers
Bookkeepers manage the financial records for organizations. They track transactions and create reports and statements for accountants and managers. Most bookkeepers have completed some accounting-related postsecondary education.
Job Outlook in New York (2020-2030): +11.9%
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
These professionals sell various financial products, such as securities and commodities. They may connect businesses with investors or buy stocks on behalf of clients. While most securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents have a bachelor's degree, a master's degree may be required for some jobs.
Job Outlook in New York (2020-2030): +3.6%
New York Employment Trends
| Job Availability | New York | National |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Employment | 121,960 | 1,392,2500 |
| 2030 Projected Employment | 142,070 | 1,488,200 |
| Projected Job Growth, 2020-2030 | +16.5% | +6.9% |
| Career | New York Employment | New York Average Annual Salary | National Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeping and Auditing Clerks | 94,450 | $52,640 | $47,440 |
| Credit Counselors | 1,710 | $64,270 | $51,650 |
| Payroll Clerks | 9,690 | $59,140 | $52,300 |
| Career | New York Employment | New York Average Annual Salary | National Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compliance Officers | 21,130 | $87,070 | $76,980 |
| Cost Estimators | 10,790 | $82,990 | $76,740 |
| Property Appraisers and Assessors | 3,030 | $86,320 | $80,460 |
| Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents | 58,140 | $176,380 | $100,740 |
| Tax Examiners and Collectors | 3,590 | $76,510 | $64,410 |
| Tax Preparers | 7,590 | $70,090 | $55,840 |
| Career | New York Employment | New York Average Annual Salary | National Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accountants and Auditors | 118,870 | $110,320 | $86,740 |
| Budget Analysts | 3,120 | $96,230 | $87,680 |
| Financial Analysts | 46,720 | $140,880 | $108,790 |
| Financial Managers | 55,560 | $228,160 | $166,050 |
| Personal Financial Advisors | 26,800 | $203,070 | $137,740 |
The employment landscape for accounting careers looks very appealing in New York. Not only does the state house some of the largest workforces in each of the fields listed above, but the wages stand out. The average annual salaries in the state surpassed the national averages for every single occupation.
Some of the most prominent positions pay New York professionals far in excess of the national averages. Financial managers, financial services sales agents, and personal financial advisors made at least $60,000 more than the average.
Since the state has such a high concentration of major businesses, many of the top-paying accounting jobs in the country can be found in New York.
New York Requirements for Certified Public Accountants
Every state has its own requirements for certified public accountant (CPA) licensure. In most cases, CPAs need a combination of education, experience, and examination. Prospective CPAs need to verify the licensing requirements for the state they wish to practice in.
According to the New York State Education Department, New York CPAs need to qualify for the Uniform CPA Examination, pass the test, complete the education requirements for licensure, and gain the appropriate experience. The specifics include:
120 postsecondary credits for the exam
At least one course in auditing and attestation, cost or management accounting, financial accounting, and taxation for the exam
Passing grade on the exam
150 credits for licensure
At least 36 general business credits for licensure
At least one year of full-time or two years of part-time supervised work experience
Questions About New York Accountants
How do I become an accountant in NY?
Most New York accountants have at least a bachelor's degree. Some employers and positions require a master's degree or professional licensure.
Is NYU good for accounting?
Yes. NYU's Stern School of Business has one of the most reputable accounting programs in the nation. The program is known for its focus on financial and forensic accounting and research leadership.
How many accountants are there in NYC?
According to the BLS, there were more than 118,000 New York accountants in 2022.
How much does an accounting job pay in NYC?
According to the BLS, the average annual salary for New York accountants was $110,320 in May 2022. Only Washington, D.C., had higher wages overall.
