Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) Salary in South Africa (2026)
A chartered accountant (ca(sa)) in South Africa earns between R35 000 and R200 000 per month in 2026, with an average salary of R98 750/month (R1 185 000/year). Entry-level (0-3 years) starts at R35 000/month, mid-level (3-8 years) at R60 000/month, senior level (8-15 years) at R100 000/month, and top-tier professionals (15+ years) earn up to R200 000/month.
Salary Overview
Salary by Experience Level
| Level | Experience | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | 0 - 3 years | R35 000 | R420 000 |
| Mid Level | 3 - 8 years | R60 000 | R720 000 |
| Senior Level | 8 - 15 years | R100 000 | R1 200 000 |
| Top Level | 15+ years | R200 000 | R2 400 000 |
Take-Home Pay Calculator
See how much a chartered accountant (ca(sa)) takes home after tax and UIF. Adjust the salary to match your offer or current pay.
Estimate based on 2025/2026 SARS tax tables. Excludes medical aid, pension, and other deductions. UIF Calculator
What Does a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) Do?
Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)) are the senior tier of the SA accounting profession. CAs work in audit firms (Big 4 - Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC), industry (CFO track), banking, asset management, and consulting. The qualification path requires three years of articles (SAICA training contract) after the academic CTA / PGDA.
Qualifications & Requirements
- BCom or BAcc with majors in Accounting, Auditing, Tax and Financial Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (CTA / PGDA)
- SAICA Training Contract (3 years of articles)
- Initial Test of Competence (ITC) + Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) - the SAICA qualifying exams
- SAICA registration as CA(SA)
Job Market Demand
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average chartered accountant (ca(sa)) salary in South Africa?
The average chartered accountant (ca(sa)) salary in South Africa is approximately R98 750 per month or R1 185 000 per year in 2026. Entry-level positions start at around R35 000/month, while experienced professionals at senior level can earn up to R200 000/month.
How much does a chartered accountant (ca(sa)) earn per month in South Africa?
A chartered accountant (ca(sa)) in South Africa earns between R35 000 and R200 000 per month depending on experience level. Entry-level (0-3 years): R35 000, Mid-level (3-8 years): R60 000, Senior (8-15 years): R100 000, Top-level (15+ years): R200 000.
What qualifications do I need to become a chartered accountant (ca(sa)) in South Africa?
To become a chartered accountant (ca(sa)) in South Africa, you typically need: BCom or BAcc with majors in Accounting, Auditing, Tax and Financial Management; Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (CTA / PGDA); SAICA Training Contract (3 years of articles); Initial Test of Competence (ITC) + Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) - the SAICA qualifying exams; SAICA registration as CA(SA). Requirements may vary between public and private sector employers.
Salary data is compiled from public sector pay scales, industry surveys, and job listing aggregates. Figures are estimates for 2026 and may vary by location, company, and individual qualifications.
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