Accountant vs Data Analyst
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Accountant earns 25% more than Data Analyst
Median R 35 000/month vs R 28 000/month — a R 7 000/month difference
Accountant
R 420 000/year
59% above SA workforce median
Data Analyst
R 336 000/year
27% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Accountant | Data Analyst |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 18 000 | R 15 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 35 000 | R 28 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 62 000 | R 48 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Accountant
Strong and consistent demand — every entity that prepares financial statements needs an accountant. Automation is shifting routine bookkeeping to software but increasing demand for analytical and advisory accounting skills.
Data Analyst
The demand for data analysts is accelerating as SA businesses invest in data infrastructure, making this one of the fastest-growing roles in the country.
See your actual take-home pay
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Accountant or a Data Analyst in South Africa?▾
A Accountant earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Accountant is R 35 000/month, compared to R 28 000/month for a Data Analyst — a difference of R 7 000/month (25% higher).
What is the Accountant salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Accountant salary in South Africa is R 35 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 15 000–R 22 000/month, mid-level pays R 28 000–R 45 000/month, and senior roles pay R 50 000–R 80 000/month.
What is the Data Analyst salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Data Analyst salary in South Africa is R 28 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 12 000–R 18 000/month, mid-level pays R 22 000–R 38 000/month, and senior roles pay R 38 000–R 65 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Accountant or Data Analyst?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.