EY Consultant Salary in 2025

The role of a consultant at EY (Ernst & Young) is highly coveted due to its dynamic work environment, diverse clientele, and potential for career growth. If you’re considering a career in consulting at EY or simply curious about the salary expectations for 2025, this article provides an in-depth look at the factors influencing earnings, the salary by experience level, job market trends, and the overall job outlook. We also explore the benefits associated with the role, as well as how education and certifications can impact compensation.

Average EY Consultant Salary in 2025

In 2025, the salary for an EY consultant can vary significantly depending on a range of factors, including experience, location, and the specific area of consulting (e.g., technology, strategy, or management consulting).

Entry-Level Consultants: Starting salaries for consultants at EY generally range between $70,000 and $90,000 annually. New hires typically have limited professional experience and may be fresh out of university with relevant internships or training.
Mid-Level Consultants: Consultants with 3-5 years of experience can expect to earn $90,000 to $120,000. These consultants are likely to have developed specialized skills and may be managing small teams or taking on more client-facing responsibilities.
Senior Consultants/Managers: Professionals with over 5 years of experience, especially those in leadership roles, can see salaries ranging from $120,000 to $180,000. These consultants often have specialized expertise, significant industry knowledge, and management skills.
Partners and Directors: At the highest levels of the firm, such as partners or directors, salaries can exceed $200,000, with bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities pushing total compensation even higher.

Factors Influencing EY Consultant Salaries

Several key factors influence an EY consultant’s earnings. These include:

Experience Level: Experience plays a significant role in determining salary. More experienced consultants typically have a higher base salary and more significant bonuses.
Location: Salaries can vary based on geographical location. Consultants in major metropolitan areas such as New York City, London, or Hong Kong tend to earn higher salaries compared to those working in smaller cities or rural areas, due to the cost of living and regional market demand.
Area of Specialization: Certain consulting areas, such as technology, risk, and strategy consulting, may offer higher compensation due to the demand for specialized skills. Those with expertise in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, data analytics, or digital transformation may command higher salaries.
Education and Certifications: Higher education levels and professional certifications, such as MBA, CFA, PMP, or specialized industry certifications, can positively impact earning potential. EY consultants who hold these qualifications tend to earn more due to their enhanced skills and broader expertise.
Company Performance and Bonuses: Consultants at EY are often eligible for performance-based bonuses, which can significantly supplement their base salary. Strong performance, especially in client-facing roles or high-value projects, can lead to bonuses that enhance total compensation.

Job Market Trends for Consultants in 2025

The consulting job market in 2025 is poised for continued growth, driven by the increasing demand for expertise in digital transformation, sustainability, and technology integration. As businesses navigate complexities in the post-pandemic world, consultants with experience in these areas are in high demand.

Technology Consulting Growth: With companies increasingly embracing digital transformation, technology consulting is expected to see significant growth. Consultants with expertise in artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity are likely to be highly sought after.
Sustainability and ESG Consulting: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices are gaining traction. EY consultants with experience in sustainability and ESG reporting may see higher salaries and more job opportunities as companies focus on green initiatives and responsible business practices.
Remote Work: The flexibility of remote work continues to impact the consulting industry. Many consultants now have the opportunity to work with clients globally, which can influence salary expectations, particularly for those working remotely in lower-cost regions.

Salary by Experience: What to Expect

Entry-Level Consultants (0-2 Years of Experience)

Salary Range: $70,000 to $90,000
Role: Entry-level consultants often focus on supporting projects, conducting research, and analyzing data. They typically work under the guidance of senior consultants and managers.

Mid-Level Consultants (3-5 Years of Experience)

Salary Range: $90,000 to $120,000
Role: At this level, consultants are expected to handle more client-facing responsibilities, lead smaller teams, and take on more complex projects. Their increased responsibility and technical expertise drive their salary increase.

Senior Consultants/Managers (5+ Years of Experience)

Salary Range: $120,000 to $180,000
Role: Senior consultants and managers oversee larger teams, handle high-stakes client projects, and may also mentor junior consultants. They bring significant experience, strategic thinking, and leadership abilities, which are reflected in their salary.

Directors and Partners (10+ Years of Experience)

Salary Range: $200,000+
Role: Directors and partners hold senior leadership positions. They are responsible for maintaining client relationships, leading large-scale projects, and driving the business strategy of the firm.

Benefits of Working as an EY Consultant

In addition to a competitive salary, EY consultants enjoy a wide range of benefits that contribute to their overall compensation package:

Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Retirement Plans: 401(k) plans with company matching and other pension options.
Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday benefits.
Professional Development: EY supports career growth through training, mentorship, and certifications.
Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and firm-wide performance.
Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and options for remote work.

Job Outlook for EY Consultants in 2025

The job outlook for consultants, including those at EY, is positive. The global consulting industry is expected to grow steadily, driven by increased demand for specialized knowledge, particularly in areas such as technology, cybersecurity, and sustainability. The continued trend toward digitalization means that consultants with expertise in emerging technologies will be in high demand.

EY’s global presence, along with its wide range of consulting services, makes it an attractive employer. As businesses face increasingly complex challenges, consultants who can bring innovative solutions will find ample opportunities for career growth and salary progression.

The Impact of Education on Consultant Salary

Education plays an important role in determining the salary of an EY consultant. Having a bachelor’s degree in fields like business, finance, engineering, or computer science is typically the minimum requirement. However, those with advanced degrees or professional certifications can expect higher earning potential:

MBA or Master’s Degree: EY consultants with an MBA or a relevant master’s degree often earn higher salaries compared to those with only an undergraduate degree. An MBA, in particular, is highly valued in leadership positions.
Professional Certifications: Certifications like the Project Management Professional (PMP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) can also boost a consultant’s salary by demonstrating specialized expertise.

Conclusion

The EY consultant salary in 2025 is highly competitive and offers substantial earning potential, especially as one gains more experience. Factors like location, specialization, education, and certifications significantly impact compensation, with opportunities for bonuses and career advancement as well. As the job market for consultants continues to grow, those with expertise in technology, sustainability, and other high-demand fields can expect to see an increase in job opportunities and compensation. By continuing to invest in skills development and education, consultants can expect a rewarding career with great potential for financial success