HR Manager vs Chartered Accountant
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Chartered Accountant earns 55% more than HR Manager
Median R 62 000/month vs R 40 000/month — a R 22 000/month difference
HR Manager
R 480 000/year
82% above SA workforce median
Chartered Accountant
R 744 000/year
182% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | HR Manager | Chartered Accountant |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 17 500 | R 35 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 40 000 | R 62 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 75 000 | R 130 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
HR Manager
HR Business Partners and HR professionals with strong labour relations and EE compliance expertise are consistently in demand. Digital HR (HRIS, people analytics) is an emerging premium skill.
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.
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a HR Manager or a Chartered Accountant 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 40 000/month for a HR Manager — a difference of R 22 000/month (55% higher).
What is the HR Manager salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median HR Manager salary in South Africa is R 40 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 14 000–R 22 000/month, mid-level pays R 30 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
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.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a HR Manager or Chartered Accountant?▾
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.