Accountant vs Quantity Surveyor
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Quantity Surveyor earns 20% more than Accountant
Median R 42 000/month vs R 35 000/month — a R 7 000/month difference
Accountant
R 420 000/year
59% above SA workforce median
Quantity Surveyor
R 504 000/year
91% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Accountant | Quantity Surveyor |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 18 000 | R 22 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 35 000 | R 42 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 62 000 | R 75 000 |
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.
Quantity Surveyor
Government infrastructure investment keeps QS demand robust. Housing backlogs and private sector commercial development continue to create work. Skilled PrQSs are a scarce resource.
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Accountant or a Quantity Surveyor in South Africa?▾
A Quantity Surveyor earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Quantity Surveyor is R 42 000/month, compared to R 35 000/month for a Accountant — a difference of R 7 000/month (20% 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 Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa is R 42 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 28 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Accountant or Quantity Surveyor?▾
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.