What Is the Average Hourly Rate for a Bookkeeper?

Bookkeeper hourly rate discussed by three professionals meeting around a table in a modern glass-walled office with a laptop and notes.

For any business, keeping finances organized and compliant is a vital task, and bookkeeping is an essential bookkeeping function in the business management process. As a small business owner, startup founder, or independent contractor, knowing the average hourly rate for a bookkeeper is useful for budgeting and for determining the appropriate level of financial assistance needed.

Typical Bookkeeper Hourly Rates

The average hourly rate for a bookkeeper varies depending on experience, location, and service type. In general, bookkeepers charge between $25 and $100 per hour.

  • Entry-level or freelance bookkeepers may charge around $25–$40 per hour, focusing on basic data entry, bank reconciliations, and expense tracking.

  • Experienced bookkeepers or certified professionals often charge $50–$75 per hour, offering advanced services such as payroll processing, financial reporting, and tax preparation support.

  • Specialized or virtual bookkeeping firms with advanced accounting software and CPA oversight may charge $75–$100+ per hour, particularly for businesses with complex transactions or multi-entity operations.

Factors That Affect Bookkeeper Rates

Several factors influence how much a bookkeeper charges:

  1. Experience and Certification – Bookkeepers with credentials such as Certified Bookkeeper (CB) or QuickBooks ProAdvisor status can command higher rates due to their expertise and reliability.

  2. Business Complexity – A small retail shop will likely pay less than a multi-location business with payroll, inventory, and multiple revenue streams.

  3. Software Proficiency – Bookkeepers familiar with cloud-based platforms like QuickBooks Online, Xero, or NetSuite often charge more for their technical efficiency and integration skills.

  4. Location – Rates tend to be higher in major cities such as New York or San Francisco than in smaller towns or rural areas.

  5. In-House vs. Outsourced – Hiring an in-house bookkeeper comes with salary, benefits, and payroll costs, while outsourcing lets you pay only for the hours or services you need.

Hourly vs. Flat-Rate Pricing

Some bookkeepers offer flat monthly rates instead of hourly billing. This model can be more predictable for businesses with regular needs. However, for one-time cleanup or seasonal work, hourly rates are usually preferred.

Final Thoughts

Determining how much a bookkeeper charges per hour allows you to allocate resources appropriately and match the complexity and size of your business with the skill level of the professional you are hiring. Although the prices can range vastly, hiring a competent bookkeeper will provide you with precise records, ease the preparation of taxes, and improve the decisions you make regarding your business.

If you want clear pricing and bookkeeping support that fits your budget and business size, Dimov Partners can help you compare options and set up the right level of service from day one.

George Dimov