Ernst & Young (EY) remains one of the “Big Four” accounting firms, known for offering competitive salaries and exceptional career growth opportunities. As of 2025, EY partner salaries are among the highest in the consulting and professional services industry. This detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know about EY partner compensation, job outlook, benefits, and factors that influence earnings.
📊 Average EY Partner Salary in 2025
The average salary for a partner at Ernst & Young in 2025 ranges from $350,000 to $900,000+ annually, depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and business unit performance. Senior partners and those in leadership or specialized roles (like tax or transaction advisory services) can earn $1 million or more with bonuses and profit-sharing.
💼 Salary by Experience Level
EY partner salaries increase significantly with experience and seniority:
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New Partners (0–2 years): $350,000–$500,000
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Mid-Level Partners (3–7 years): $500,000–$700,000
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Senior Partners (8+ years): $700,000–$1M+
Equity stakes and annual bonuses are major components of total compensation, especially at senior levels.
🧾 Take-Home Pay on a $103K Salary
For context, if an EY employee earns $103,000 annually:
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Federal and State Taxes (varies by state): ~$25,000–$30,000
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Benefits & Deductions (healthcare, 401(k), etc.): ~$5,000–$10,000
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Estimated Take-Home Pay: $65,000–$73,000
At the partner level, tax obligations are more complex due to equity ownership and profit distributions, often involving self-employment taxes and capital gains.
🔍 Factors That Influence EY Partner Salary
Several variables can affect how much a partner earns at EY:
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Office Location: Partners in major cities like New York or San Francisco earn more due to higher client billings and cost of living.
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Business Unit: Advisory and Transaction Services typically offer higher bonuses compared to Assurance.
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Performance Metrics: Billing rates, client retention, and practice growth significantly impact annual bonuses.
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Equity Stake: Partner compensation includes a share of EY’s annual profit pool, which can fluctuate year to year.
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Education & Certification: CPAs, MBAs, or specialized credentials can boost salary prospects.
🎓 Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
Becoming a partner at EY typically requires:
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CPA License (Certified Public Accountant) – essential for audit and assurance partners.
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MBA or Master’s Degree – beneficial for those in advisory or strategy roles.
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Specialized Certifications:
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CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) for finance roles
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CISA/CISM for cybersecurity consulting
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Lean Six Sigma for operational consulting
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Advanced degrees and certifications not only enhance your credibility but also contribute to faster promotion and higher compensation.
🌟 Benefits of Being an EY Partner
EY partners receive a broad range of benefits beyond salary:
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Profit Sharing and Annual Bonuses
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Equity in the Firm
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Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
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Generous 401(k) Plans and Pension Options
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Paid Sabbaticals and Global Mobility Opportunities
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Executive Coaching and Leadership Development Programs
📈 Job Market Trends and Outlook for EY Partners
The demand for professional services continues to rise, driven by:
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Digital transformation in industries like healthcare and finance
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Increased regulation and compliance needs
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Rising demand for ESG and sustainability consulting
These factors contribute to a strong job outlook for EY partners, particularly those with expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and digital strategy.
🧠 Final Thoughts
In 2025, becoming a partner at Ernst & Young is more lucrative and dynamic than ever. While the journey is demanding, the rewards are substantial—financially, professionally, and personally. With the right mix of education, experience, and performance, aspiring professionals can tap into one of the most prestigious and rewarding roles in the consulting world.
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