NEW YORK (Sept. 10, 2025) — The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) today released the results of its 2025 National Management of an Accounting Practice (MAP) Survey revealing that firms across the country are reporting strong revenue growth and continued increases in staff compensation at all levels.
The MAP survey, the largest benchmarking survey of public accounting practices in the U.S., includes responses from firms of all sizes, with 81% of the responses from those with revenue of $5 million and below. The survey respondents reported a median 6.7% increase in total net client fees (firm revenue) over the prior year compared to the 2023 survey which reported a median growth rate over the prior year of 9.1%. Firms reported growth in revenue from audit & assurance and tax services, and the trend of growth in client accounting advisory revenue also continued from prior surveys. Following on a surge in demand for accounting services during the pandemic, 2024 growth results reflect continued interest in and value of the range of services accounting firms provide.
Net remaining per partner/owner climbed 11.9% from $225,725 in fiscal year 2022 to $252,663 in fiscal year 2024. This metric, which is net client fees minus expenses and before partner compensation is taken out, is what firms consider profit on a per-partner basis.
“CPA firms have been focusing on strategic growth opportunities by refining their client base and deepening relationships with existing clients,” said Lisa Simpson, vice president of firm services at the AICPA. “This type of strategy is a key component of accounting firm business model transformation that allows CPAs to enhance their role as trusted advisors.”
The survey also found that firms are raising compensation, including for new graduates. Over a two-year period, median average salary for a new graduate with a bachelor’s degree rose almost 11% from the previous survey to $60,834, while median average salary for a new graduate with a master’s degree rose nearly 17% to $67,750. Reflecting overall firm growth, compensation per equity partner increased 10.2% overall. Average compensation per position has increased across the board with the highest increases showing in associate through manager level.
“Higher starting salaries and more competitive pay across the board can help accounting firms attract and retain more talent,” said Simpson. “The profession is making progress in this area, but we need to continue to evaluate pay compared to other career opportunities.”
Responding firms are showing interest in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, as well as other technologies. A large majority of firms responding to the survey feel confident about adapting to AI and automation over the next three years. Usage is already emerging in client communications, real-time dashboards and forecasting models, but most firms have yet to allocate formal budgets or develop structured training. Continued adoption could help expand services, which in turn can fuel continued growth.
As firms embrace technology and expand service offerings, there is a slow but steady increase in value and fixed pricing offset with a decline in traditional hourly-based billing. This shift away from billing by the hour better aligns with client expectations, investments in technology and a recognition of the value and types of services firms provide to their clients.
Survey Methodology
The AICPA’s MAP Survey provides a comprehensive view of CPA firm performance metrics and trends. Responses reported throughout the survey are median values. The survey is conducted every two years by the AICPA’s Private Companies Practice Section (PCPS) and CPA.com. For 2025, representatives from over 1,400 CPA firms provided some confidential information about their fiscal year 2024 financial results, with 1,073 completing the survey. The survey was in the field from May 5 through July 18 this year.
About the American Institute of CPAs
The American Institute of CPAs(AICPA) is the world’s largest member association representing the CPA profession, with 397,000 members and a history of serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education, and consulting. A founding member of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession, attestation standards, and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and federal, state, and local governments. It develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, offers specialized credentials, partners across the profession to build future talent, and drives continuing education to advance the vitality, relevance, and quality of the profession.