Controller Salary.
Across 30 U.S. cities.
$150,000
national median salary
$115,000 to $198,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$213,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$156,000
New York, NY
Lowest Paying
$131,000
Detroit, MI
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Controller salary in the United States is $150,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $115,000 at the 25th percentile to $198,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $213,000, while New York offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Company revenue and organizational complexity are the dominant pay factors.
Controller salary by city
What you should know
Company revenue and organizational complexity are the dominant pay factors. Controllers at companies generating $100 million or more in revenue earn 25 to 40% more than those at smaller firms. Public company experience, especially SEC reporting and SOX compliance expertise, commands significant premiums over private company controller roles.
Senior accountants earn $80,000 to $100,000 before advancing. Accounting managers earn $100,000 to $130,000. Assistant controllers reach $120,000 to $160,000. Controllers earn $140,000 to $200,000. The path to CFO typically goes through VP of Finance at $180,000 to $260,000.
Annual bonuses of 15 to 25% tied to audit outcomes, reporting accuracy, and financial close timelines are standard. Equity grants at pre-IPO companies can be substantial, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 annually. Controllers often receive professional development budgets for CPA CPE.