Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Bookkeeping Costs Vary So Much
Bookkeeping might not be the most exciting part of running a business, but it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re a small business owner managing a growing startup or a retail shop trying to stay compliant, keeping accurate financial records can save you headaches — and money — down the road.
But here’s the real question every business owner asks: how much does bookkeeping cost?
The short answer: it depends on where you live, who you hire, and what you need.
Bookkeeping fees in the U.S. vary widely by state, experience level, and type of service — from hourly rates for part-time freelancers to monthly retainers for professional accounting firms.
Are you currently managing your bookkeeping in-house?
Average Bookkeeping Rates Across the U.S.
Here’s a quick look at average hourly bookkeeping rates across states. These numbers represent what businesses typically expect to pay for general bookkeeping tasks (bank reconciliations, data entry, expense tracking, and financial reports).
What Factors Affect Bookkeeping Fees
Several elements shape bookkeeping rates across the United States:
- Business size and complexity – A small e-commerce shop with simple transactions may pay $250/month, while a multi-entity company can expect $1,000+.
- Experience level – Junior bookkeepers might charge $25/hour, but senior accountants with tax planning expertise often exceed $75/hour.
- Location – States with higher costs of living (California, New York) command higher fees.
- Accounting software – Using QuickBooks Online, Xero, or Wave can reduce manual hours, lowering your monthly fee.
- Frequency of reports – If you need weekly financial reports or cash flow tracking, your bill increases.
- Additional services – Payroll, sales tax filing, or budgeting add to the total cost.
Tip: When comparing quotes, ask whether the monthly fee includes tax planning or just basic data entry — this small detail makes a big difference in cost.
Bookkeeper Hourly Rates vs. Monthly Packages
Hourly bookkeeping rates are ideal for one-off or short-term projects, like reconciling prior-year books or preparing for tax filing.
Monthly packages, on the other hand, are best for ongoing small businesses that want peace of mind and predictable costs.
Should You Hire a Freelancer, Firm, or Full-Time Bookkeeper?
Each option suits different business stages:
- Freelancers: Cost-effective for startups needing part-time help. You can find options by searching bookkeeping near me on platforms like Upwork or LinkedIn.
- Bookkeeping firms: Offer team-based support, scalability, and advanced software tools — ideal for small and mid-sized businesses.
- Full-time bookkeepers: Fit best for high-volume operations needing daily management of invoices, payroll, and reconciliations.
Quick note: If you’re still growing your business, outsourcing to a virtual accounting service often saves 30–40% compared to hiring a full-time bookkeeper.
What Small Business Owners Typically Pay (by State)
Here’s an overview of average monthly bookkeeping costs by state (for small businesses earning under $1M annually):
Add-On Services That Influence Pricing
Modern bookkeeping isn’t just about balancing books — many professionals offer add-on services that impact pricing:
- Payroll processing – $50–$200/month
- Tax planning – $100–$400/month depending on complexity
- Financial reporting & KPIs – $100+/month
- Accounts payable/receivable management – $150–$350/month
- Software integration (QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto) – One-time setup fees of $150–$500
Bundling these services can reduce your total cost if you negotiate a package deal.
How to Choose the Right Bookkeeping Service
Choosing the right partner isn’t about picking the cheapest option. It’s about finding someone who understands your business model, uses modern accounting software, and can scale with you.
When hiring a bookkeeper, consider:
- Experience in your industry (retail, construction, nonprofit, etc.)
- Transparent pricing models — avoid vague “starting from” rates.
- Cloud access — ask if you can review books anytime.
- Tax coordination — ensure seamless hand-off to your accountant.
- Client communication — do they provide clear monthly reports?
Pro tip: Always request sample reports or dashboards to see how clearly they present your financial data.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do bookkeepers charge per hour in the U.S.?
Most bookkeepers charge $30 to $100 per hour, depending on experience and state. Coastal regions and major cities are typically higher.
How much should I charge for bookkeeping if I’m a freelancer?
Start at $30–$50/hour for entry-level work. If you offer additional services like payroll or financial reporting, you can charge $60–$80/hour.
What’s a fair monthly fee for small business bookkeeping?
Expect to pay between $300 and $850/month, depending on transaction volume and service scope.
What’s the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?
Bookkeepers handle day-to-day financial tracking, while accountants oversee tax planning, analysis, and compliance. Many small business owners hire both for complete coverage.
How much can bookkeepers earn annually?
In the U.S., bookkeepers earn an average of $45,000–$60,000/year, depending on state and experience level.
Conclusion
Bookkeeping fees in the U.S. can vary from one state to another, but investing in reliable financial management pays for itself in accuracy and peace of mind. Whether you choose a freelancer or a professional accounting firm, prioritize transparency, experience, and scalable pricing that grows with your business.
If you’re comparing options, gather quotes, check client reviews, and ask about bundled services. A good bookkeeper won’t just record transactions — they’ll help you understand your numbers, plan better, and make smarter decisions.
📞 “Ready to streamline your books? Talk to a U.S.-based accounting expert today.”
Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute accounting, financial, or legal advice. Bookkeeping fees and regulations may vary by state and service provider. Always consult a licensed accountant or financial professional before making decisions regarding your business finances.
