Accountant in Quincy, MA

A Career Guide for Accountants in Quincy, MA

Quincy, Massachusetts, isn't just another suburb of Boston—it's a city with its own distinct economic identity. As the birthplace of two U.S. presidents and a historic shipbuilding hub, it has evolved into a dynamic center for healthcare, insurance, and professional services. For an accountant, this means a robust job market with a blend of corporate stability and opportunities for specialized growth. This guide provides a data-driven, local perspective on what it truly means to build an accounting career here, from the salary you can expect to the neighborhoods where you might live.

We'll cut through the promotional material and give you the facts you need to make an informed decision. Let's break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the long-term prospects for accountants in the "City of Presidents."

The Salary Picture: Where Quincy Stands

The accounting profession in Quincy is competitive, with salaries that reflect the high cost of living in the Greater Boston area. According to recent data, the median salary for an accountant in Quincy is $89,075 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $42.82. This figure sits slightly above the national average of $86,080 per year, a testament to the region's economic strength. However, the job market is relatively tight, with approximately 203 accounting jobs available in the metro area at any given time. The 10-year job growth projection is 4%, which is steady but not explosive, indicating a stable market with less volatility.

Your actual earning potential will vary significantly based on experience, specialization, and the type of firm you work for. Here’s a realistic breakdown of salary expectations:

Experience Level	Typical Title	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	Staff Accountant, Junior Auditor	$65,000 - $78,000	Basic bookkeeping, data entry, assisting with month-end close, preparing simple financial statements.
Mid-Level	Senior Accountant, Tax Associate	$80,000 - $95,000	Managing general ledger, preparing complex journal entries, client-facing tax preparation, supervising junior staff.
Senior-Level	Accounting Manager, Senior Tax Manager	$96,000 - $120,000+	Overseeing accounting departments, strategic financial planning, complex tax strategy, auditing, and compliance.
Expert/Specialist	Controller, CFO, Partner (CPA Firm)	$125,000 - $180,000+	Executive financial leadership, managing all aspects of corporate finance, business strategy, and high-level consulting.

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local market data and the provided median salary. Bonuses and profit-sharing can add significantly to total compensation.

How Quincy Compares to Other MA Cities:

• Boston: Salaries are higher (median ~$95,000+), but the cost of living and commute are more intense.
• Worcester: Lower salaries (median ~$78,000) and a lower cost of living, but a different industry mix (more manufacturing/healthcare).
• Cambridge: Very high salaries (median ~$100,000+) driven by biotech and tech, but with an extremely high cost of living and intense competition.
• Quincy's Niche: It offers a "sweet spot" with salaries closer to Boston levels than to other suburbs, mixed with a slightly more manageable lifestyle and cost structure, especially for those working in South Shore or Boston-based roles.

Quincy is a practical choice for accountants who want Boston-area pay without the premium cost of living in the city's core.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $89,075 looks good on paper, but the real question is what it means for your monthly budget. Massachusetts has a progressive income tax rate of 5%, and you'll also have federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. Let's break down a typical monthly take-home pay for an accountant earning the median salary.

Assumptions:

• Filing as Single, 1 exemption, no dependents.
• Pre-tax deductions for health insurance ($300/month) and a 401(k) contribution (5% of salary, ~$371/month).
• Estimated Net Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$5,200 - $5,400 (after federal, state, and FICA taxes).

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median Salary Earner):

• Gross Monthly Income: $7,423
• Estimated Net Take-Home: $5,300
• Rent (Average 1BR): -$2,377
• Utilities (Est.): -$150
• Groceries & Essentials: -$600
• Transportation (T-pass, gas, insurance): -$250
• Healthcare (out-of-pocket): -$150
• Debt/Student Loans (Est.): -$300
• Discretionary/Entertainment: -$473

This budget is workable but leaves little room for significant savings or aggressive debt repayment. The Cost of Living Index of 111.6 (11.6% above the national average) is primarily driven by housing. The average rent of $2,377 for a 1-bedroom apartment consumes a substantial portion of your income (45% of the net take-home in this example).

Can You Afford to Buy a Home?
This is the million-dollar question, or in Quincy's case, the $600,000 question. The median home price in Quincy is well over $600,000. With a $89,075 salary, you'd likely qualify for a mortgage up to ~$450,000 with a standard 20% down payment. This creates a significant gap. To afford a median home, you would need:

1. A substantial down payment (closer to $120,000+).
2. A household income of $150,000+ (dual-income household).
3. To look at condos or smaller single-family homes in less expensive neighborhoods (see section below).

Insider Tip: Many Quincy accountants, especially early in their careers, choose to live with roommates or in studios to save aggressively. The savings rate is key to transitioning from renting to owning in this market.

Where the Jobs Are: Quincy's Major Employers

Quincy's economy is anchored by a few major sectors, creating consistent demand for skilled accountants. Unlike a tech boomtown, the job market here is stable and rooted in established industries.

1. South Shore Health (formerly South Shore Hospital): Located in nearby Weymouth, this is a major healthcare system with a huge financial footprint. They hire Staff Accountants, Revenue Cycle Analysts, and Financial Analysts. The healthcare industry has complex billing and compliance needs, offering stable, long-term career paths.

2. State Street Corporation: While headquartered in Boston, State Street has a major presence in Quincy. As a global financial services firm, their needs are immense. They recruit for Fund Accountants, Internal Audit roles, and Financial Controllers. Salaries here are typically at the higher end of the local range.

3. John Hancock (a division of Manulife): This financial services giant has offices in Quincy. They look for Actuaries, Financial Analysts, and Tax Specialists. Working for a large insurer provides exposure to complex financial products and regulatory environments.

4. Boston Financial Data Services (BFDS): A key player in the asset servicing industry. They specialize in data and analytics for investment funds. Accountants here often move into Operations, Data Analysis, and Client Reporting roles. It's a great place for those who enjoy the intersection of finance and technology.

5. Local CPA & Consulting Firms: Quincy is home to numerous mid-sized and boutique CPA firms (e.g., firms like Kerkering, Barberio & Co. and others). These firms offer a classic public accounting path—tax, audit, and consulting—with a strong focus on local businesses and individuals. They are excellent for getting your CPA license and building a diverse client portfolio.

Hiring Trends: Hiring tends to be steady and cyclical, with peaks around tax season (January-April) and year-end close (October-December). The trend is toward hybrid work models; most firms now offer 2-3 days remote. However, in-person networking remains valuable; the Quincy Chamber of Commerce hosts regular events that are crucial for job seekers.

Insider Tip: Don't overlook the Boston commuter market. An accountant living in Quincy can easily work downtown at firms like PwC, Deloitte, or in the financial district without a brutal commute, thanks to the Red Line T-stop at Quincy Center.

Getting Licensed in MA

To advance beyond bookkeeping in Massachusetts, the CPA license is essential. The state’s requirements are set by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Education: A bachelor's degree (120 credits) is the minimum, but 150 credit hours are required to sit for the CPA exam and to get licensed. Most candidates complete a master's in accounting or take extra courses at a community college like Bunker Hill Community College or Quincy College to meet this.
2. Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam (AUD, BEC, FAR, REG).
3. Experience: One year (2,000 hours) of supervised accounting experience is required. This must be verified by a licensed CPA.
4. Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam.

Costs and Timeline:

• Exam Fees: ~$1,500 (for all four sections).
• Review Course: $1,500 - $3,000 (e.g., Becker, Roger, Gleim).
• Application & Licensing Fees: ~$300-$500.
• Education Costs: Varies widely, but a master's degree can cost $20,000+.
• Timeline: From starting your education to getting your license, expect 1.5 to 2.5 years. Many candidates work full-time while studying, which can extend the timeline but is financially necessary.

Insider Tip: Start your NASBA CPA Candidate Bulletin early. Massachusetts requires official transcripts to be sent to NASBA for evaluation before you can apply to sit for the exam. This administrative step can take weeks to process.

Best Neighborhoods for Accountants

Where you live in Quincy significantly impacts your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here are four neighborhoods to consider:

1. Quincy Center: The heart of the action. You have the Red Line T-stop, City Hall, major banks, and a growing number of restaurants and apartments.

   • Commute: Excellent. Direct T to downtown Boston (15-20 mins) or to Braintree for a corporate job.
   • Lifestyle: Urban, walkable, younger demographic.
   • Rent Estimate: $2,400 - $2,800/month for a modern 1BR.

2. East Quincy (Wollaston area): More suburban, with single-family homes and the popular Wollaston Beach.

   • Commute: Good. Drive or bus to Quincy Center T-stop (5-10 mins).
   • Lifestyle: Quieter, family-oriented, close to parks and the beach.
   • Rent Estimate: $2,100 - $2,500/month for a 1BR or a small 2BR.

3. North Quincy: A bustling, diverse area with a major T stop and a large student population (near Quincy College).

   • Commute: Excellent. Direct Red Line access.
   • Lifestyle: Fast-paced, with many ethnic markets and affordable eats.
   • Rent Estimate: $2,000 - $2,300/month for a 1BR (often older buildings).

4. Adams Shore: A scenic, residential peninsula with historic homes and the Marina Bay waterfront.

   • Commute: Requires a car or bus to T-stop (10-15 mins).
   • Lifestyle: Peaceful, scenic, with a strong community feel. Popular with young professionals.
   • Rent Estimate: $2,200 - $2,600/month for a 1BR or studio.

Insider Tip: For a new accountant, North Quincy offers the best balance of affordability and transit access. As your income grows, moving to Quincy Center or East Quincy provides a better quality of life. Always check for street parking availability if you have a car—some neighborhoods have strict permit rules.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in accounting in Quincy is not just about getting a job; it's about strategic advancement. The 10-year job growth of 4% means you must be proactive to climb.

Specialty Premiums:

• CPA License: This is non-negotiable for serious advancement. It can boost your salary by 15-25% over a non-CPA peer.
• CMA (Certified Management Accountant): Valued in corporate settings like State Street or healthcare. Can add a 10-15% premium.
• Specializations: Tax (especially corporate or international) and forensic accounting are in high demand. Operational auditors are also sought after in the insurance and financial sectors.
• ERP System Expertise: Mastery of systems like Oracle NetSuite, SAP, or advanced Excel/Power BI is a huge differentiator in the local market.

Advancement Paths:

1. Public Accounting Ladder: Staff → Senior → Manager → Senior Manager → Partner. This is a well-defined path in local CPA firms.
2. Corporate Path: Staff Accountant → Senior → Accounting Manager → Controller → CFO. This is common at larger Quincy employers like South Shore Health or John Hancock.
3. Niche Consulting: After gaining 8-10 years of experience, many accountants leave to start their own consulting practice focusing on small business accounting, taxation, or financial planning for local clients.

10-Year Outlook:
The landscape will continue to evolve. Automation will handle routine bookkeeping, pushing accountants toward analytical and advisory roles. The demand for accountants who can translate data into business strategy will grow. Quincy’s stable industries (healthcare, finance) will ensure steady demand, but the most lucrative opportunities will go to those who specialize and earn their CPA.

The Verdict: Is Quincy Right for You?

Quincy offers a compelling package for accountants who value a blend of urban amenities and suburban comfort. It’s not the highest-paying market in Massachusetts, but its strategic location and stable industries make it a wise choice for long-term career building.

Pros	Cons
Strong Salaries: Median $89,075 is competitive for the region.	High Cost of Living: Rent and housing are expensive, burdening early-career budgets.
Job Stability: Anchored by major healthcare, insurance, and financial firms.	Limited Job Market: Only ~203 accounting jobs; competition is real for top roles.
Excellent Transit Access: Red Line connects to all of Boston’s job centers.	Slower Growth: 4% job growth is steady but not dynamic.
Diverse Neighborhoods: Offers lifestyle choice from urban to beachside.	Homeownership is a Challenge: Requires significant income or savings.
Proximity to Boston: Access to world-class networking and career events.	Traffic Congestion: Commutes via car can be slow, especially on I-93.

Final Recommendation:
Quincy is an excellent choice for an accountant in the mid-to-senior level (5+ years experience) who wants to enjoy a Boston-area salary without the premium cost of living in the city itself. It's also a strong fit for accountants with families seeking good schools and a community feel.

For entry-level accountants, Quincy is a viable but challenging start. You will need to budget carefully, likely start with a roommate, and be proactive about advancing your skills to justify a move up in pay. The key is to view Quincy not as a final destination, but as a strategic base to build a career, get your CPA, and potentially buy a home in a nearby, more affordable suburb like Braintree or Milton later on.

FAQs

1. Is the commute from Quincy to downtown Boston manageable?
Yes, exceptionally so. The Red Line from Quincy Center, Wollaston, or North Quincy takes 15-25 minutes to reach South Station or Downtown Crossing. It's one of the most reliable commuter routes in the country. Driving can be unpredictable due to traffic on I-93 and the Southeast Expressway.

2. Do I need a car if I live in Quincy?
It depends on your neighborhood and job. If you live and work near a T-stop (like Quincy Center or North Quincy), you can easily live without a car. If you choose a more suburban neighborhood like East Quincy or Adams Shore, a car is highly recommended for daily errands and commuting to suburban employers.

3. What's the job market like for non-CPA accountants?
It exists, but it's more limited. You can find bookkeeping, accounts payable/receivable, and junior staff roles without a CPA. However, your career ceiling and salary potential will be significantly lower. For long-term growth in Quincy's market, pursuing the CPA is strongly advised.

4. Are there opportunities for remote or hybrid work?
Yes. The pandemic accelerated this trend. Most Quincy-based firms and corporate offices now offer hybrid schedules (2-3 days in office). Some roles, especially in corporate accounting or data analysis, may be fully remote. Always clarify the work model during your job