In today’s competitive job market, understanding salary trends is necessary before choosing a professional career. In India, Chartered Accountants (CA), Company Secretaries (CS), and Cost & Management Accountants (CMA) are the three most respectful professionals that are also known for their expertise, career stability, and growth opportunities. However, each course has a different career path and earning potential. 

With the help of below analysis, you can get an idea of salary trends, growth prospects, and long term earning potential of CA, CS, and CMA in India, that will help aspirants choose the course that aligns best with their career goals.

Overview of CA, CS, and CMA

Before knowing salaries for each profession, it is necessary to understand what each profession focuses on.

Chartered Accountant (CA)

Chartered Accountants are those who are specialists in accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, and advisory services. In businesses, consulting companies, audit firms, and banks, they play a crucial role.

Company Secretary (CS)

CS Professionals are professionals in corporate law, governance, compliance, and company administration ensuring that organisations follow legal and regulatory requirements. 

Cost and Management (CMA)

CMA professionals focus on cost control, performance management, budgeting, and strategic financial planning, mainly supporting management decision making.

Salary Trends for Chartered Accountants in India

Chartered Accountants are one of the highest paid professions. Due to their proficiency in audit, taxation, finance, and consultancy, CA professionals are in demand in industries.

CA Salary Based on Experience

The salary of CA Professionals based on their experience level is given below.

CA Freshers from top firms or with strong articleship experience often get higher salary packages.

CA Salary Based on Job Role

CA professionals who are working in consulting firms, MNCs, and Investment banking typically earn more than those in small firms.

CA Salary Based on Location in India

The salary of Chartered Accountants in India is not the same across all cities. It depends on various factors including cost of living, number of corporate offices, presence of MNCs and overall demand for finance professionals.

CA Salary Based on Location

Overall, starting salaries may be different by city but Chartered Accountant professionals who have strong skills and industry experience can get higher salaries regardless of location.

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Salary Trends for Company Secretaries in India

Company Secretaries play a key role in legal structuring, board management, corporate governance, and compliance. The salary of Company Secretaries Professionals depends on designations, experience, company size and city.

CS Salary Based on Levels

The CS Salary based on positions they hold in an organisation. Check out the below table for CS professional salary at various levels.

The earning potential of CS increases significantly as CS Professionals handle board meetings, compliance, and corporate governance at a higher level.

CS Salary Based on Experience

One of the main factors that affect a Company Secretary’s salary is Experience. Check the below table for more clarity.

CS Salary Based on Location in India

Salary also affects the salary of CS Professionals. Check out the below table for more salary details:

Average CS Salary by City

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Salary Trends for Certified Management Accountant in India

Cost and Management Accountants are experts in budgeting, cost control, and financial planning. In Manufacturing, FMCG, and corporate roles, they are in high demand.

CMA Salary Based on Job Role

CMA professionals who are working in manufacturing and strategic finance roles often see faster salary growth.

CMA Salary Based on Experience

CMA Professionals who have strong skills like analytical and strategic can easily move into leadership roles.

CMA Salary Based on Location

Due to demand in costing and planning, Industrial hubs usually offer higher salaries to CMAs.

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Factors Affecting Salary Trends

Future Earning Potential

In India, the future earning potential for CA, CS, and CMA is expected to remain strong due to the increasing regulatory requirements, growing economy, and rising corporate governance standards.

Chartered Accountants (CA)

• In the next 5-10 years, Freshers may earn Rs. 7-12 LPA 
• Mid-level CAs with 5-10 year experience may earn Rs. 25-35 LPA, and senior-level professionals may reach Rs. 1-2 crore annually
• International opportunities and specialized expertise can further enhance earning potential

Company Secretaries (CS)

• In future, the salary of fresher Company Secretary may increase to Rs. 5-9 LPA, mid-level salaries to Rs. 12-25 LPA and senior – level positions may earn Rs. 50 LPA – 1.2 crore.
• Specialized CS Professionals in corporate governance, compliance, and consultancy will see higher demand and salary.

Cost and Management Accountants (CMA)

• CMA salaries can grow from Rs. 6-12 LPA (freshers) to 40 LPA+ in senior roles.
• Boost Growth due to strong demand for CMAs in analytics, strategy, and global companies.

Overall Outlook

All three professions are good for the future with the best earning growth in future. With specialization, advanced skills, and entrepreneurial initiatives, earning can be increased.

Conclusion

Choosing the best course depends on your interest and career goals because all the three courses – CA, CS, and CMA offer strong salary growth and long-term earning potential. 

If you are confused about which path to choose, connect with our mentor because Bhagya Achievers is one platform where you can get guidance and preparation support for CA, CS, and CMA together.

FAQs

Ques: Who earns more, CA, CS, or CMA?

Ans: All the three courses offer strong salary potential. However, CA professionals get higher starting salary packages as compared to CS and CMA professionals.

Ques: What are the Big 4 companies that hire CS, CA, and CMA Freshers?

Ans: The big 4 companies that hire CS, CA, and CMA freshers are E&Y, Deloitte, PWC, and KPMG.

Ques: What is the average salary of CMA professionals in the United States?

Ans: In the United States, the average salary of CMA professionals is around $70,000 - $90,000.

Ques: Which Public sector units (PSUs) offer job opportunities to CS, CA, and CMA professionals?

Ans: Public Sector Units like OIL India, ONGC, HPCL, and BHEL provide job opportunities to CMA, CS, and CA professionals.

Ques: Where can I get guidance for all three courses in one place?

Ans: You can connect with expert mentors at Bhagya Achievers, where you can get guidance, support, and preparation strategy for CA, CS, and CMA at one place.

Also Check:

• CA vs MBA – Which Career Option Offers Better ROI and Long-Term Growth?
• Global Career Scope for CA, CS, and CMA Professionals – Countries, Roles & Demand
• The Evolving Role of a Company Secretary in Modern Corporate Governance
• Top Career Opportunities after Becoming a Chartered Accountant in 2026 and Beyond
• 10 Strong Reasons to Choose a Career as a Chartered Accountant
• Career Opportunities after CMA India – Sectors, Roles & Salaries
• Is CMA easier than CA?
• Company Secretary Career in India: Salary, Career Growth & Leading Employers
• Top Reasons Why Students Choose a Career as a Company Secretary
• Top Career Options after CS Qualification