Median pay: $73,800
Top pay: $124,000
10-year job growth: 22%
Total jobs: 200,000
The job:
While CPAs may not command the hefty paychecks of those in other areas of finance, there's also much less volatility in this field, which means job security – and to some, that's worth more than gold in today's economy. You will need to be able to interpret financial data and ensure compliance with state and federal regulators, which means training and passing some exams.
How to switch:
CPAs are licensed by their State Board of Accountancy -- no small feat. First, number crunchers must pass a four-part exam, which can take over a year to complete -- and less than half of those who sit for the exam pass every part on the first try. Before you take a stab at it, check your state's prerequisites at thiswaytocpa.com/exam-licensure/state-requirements/.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
C |
C |
B |
By Jessica Dickler, Anne C. Lee and Greg Swiatek
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