North America Accounting Talent Competition Intensifies, Salaries Rise by 6% on Average
The 2026 Corporate Accounting Talent Study released by Controllers Council shows that salaries for accounting positions in North America have risen by an average of 6% over the past 12 months, with executive-level increases reaching as high as 6.7%. 61% of respondents reported facing accounting talent shortages, a significant rise from 46% the previous year. Compensation competitiveness has become the top strategy for attracting talent for the first time, but insufficient career development opportunities remain the primary reason for employee turnover.
Key Points
- According to data from the professional association Controllers Council, over the past 12 months, salaries for corporate finance and accounting roles in North America have risen by an average of 6%, driven primarily by intensified competition for skilled talent.
- The association's "2026 Corporate Finance and Accounting Talent Study," released on July 6, shows that executives saw the highest average increases (6.7%), followed by directors (6.2%), managers (5.9%), and clerks and administrative staff (5.7%). Respondents expect salaries to rise by an average of another 5% over the next 12 months.
- The report states: "This year's survey once again confirms the 'perfect storm' driving finance and accounting salary growth: talent shortages leading to higher turnover rates, which in turn drive hiring demand; supply-demand dynamics pushing up compensation; and improved macroeconomic conditions boosting spending and investment confidence."
In-Depth Analysis
The salary increases reflect intensifying competition in the finance and accounting talent market. 61% of respondents reported facing a mild or severe shortage of finance and accounting talent, up from 46% the previous year.
This shift is prompting CFOs and finance directors to rethink their talent attraction and retention strategies.
The Controller role remains the hardest finance and accounting position to fill, according to 44% of respondents. Other difficult areas include bookkeeping, accounting, financial reporting, financial planning and analysis, and tax compliance.
For the first time in four years, competitive compensation has become the top strategy for organizations to attract and retain finance and accounting talent, followed by comprehensive benefits packages, training and development opportunities, and corporate culture.
However, high salaries alone may not be enough to prevent talent attrition.
54% of respondents said the primary reason finance and accounting employees leave is a lack of career advancement opportunities, up from 43% the previous year. Inadequate compensation and benefits ranked second (29%), followed by limited flexibility or work-life balance (26%).
The report notes: "For finance leaders, compensation should be viewed as one component of a broader talent strategy. Organizations that combine competitive pay with clear career development paths, modern finance technology, and leadership development are more likely to retain high-performing talent in an increasingly competitive talent market."
The association surveyed more than 350 North American finance leaders, including Controllers, CFOs, Chief Accounting Officers, and Vice Presidents of Finance.