Chartered Accountant vs Project Manager
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Chartered Accountant earns 35% more than Project Manager
Median R 62 000/month vs R 46 000/month — a R 16 000/month difference
Chartered Accountant
R 744 000/year
182% above SA workforce median
Project Manager
R 552 000/year
109% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Chartered Accountant | Project Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 35 000 | R 23 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 62 000 | R 46 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 130 000 | R 85 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Chartered Accountant
CA(SA) remains one of South Africa's most sought-after qualifications, with particularly strong demand from investment banking, private equity, and international companies.
Project Manager
Demand for experienced project managers is consistent across all sectors, with IT and infrastructure projects driving most growth in South Africa.
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Chartered Accountant or a Project Manager in South Africa?▾
A Chartered Accountant earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Chartered Accountant is R 62 000/month, compared to R 46 000/month for a Project Manager — a difference of R 16 000/month (35% higher).
What is the Chartered Accountant salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Chartered Accountant salary in South Africa is R 62 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 28 000–R 45 000/month, mid-level pays R 50 000–R 85 000/month, and senior roles pay R 90 000–R 250 000/month.
What is the Project Manager salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Project Manager salary in South Africa is R 46 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 30 000/month, mid-level pays R 35 000–R 60 000/month, and senior roles pay R 65 000–R 120 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Chartered Accountant or Project Manager?▾
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.