Mechanical Engineer 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 41% more than Mechanical Engineer
Median R 62 000/month vs R 44 000/month — a R 18 000/month difference
Mechanical Engineer
R 528 000/year
100% above SA workforce median
Chartered Accountant
R 744 000/year
182% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Mechanical Engineer | Chartered Accountant |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 22 000 | R 35 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 44 000 | 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
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers remain in steady demand, with particular growth in renewable energy infrastructure, electric vehicles, and South Africa's manufacturing sector.
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.
See your actual take-home pay
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Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Mechanical Engineer 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 44 000/month for a Mechanical Engineer — a difference of R 18 000/month (41% higher).
What is the Mechanical Engineer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Mechanical Engineer salary in South Africa is R 44 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 27 000/month, mid-level pays R 35 000–R 57 000/month, and senior roles pay R 58 000–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 Mechanical Engineer 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.