The Big 4 (Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG) are highly reputed firms, and every consulting professional who wants to be on top of their game is eager to join them. But which of these companies pays the most? That’s the real question!
I am close to many professionals who work in the Big 4 firms. In my research, I’ve found out that Deloitte pays the most to its employees. PwC, EY, and KPMG follow suit.
In this read, I’ll reveal:
- Which Big 4 pays the most?
- What are the other benefits that these companies offer with the pay?
In the last article, we covered why Big 4 companies pay little when compared to smaller consultancy companies.
1. Deloitte
In my list, Deloitte stands out as the top Big 4 that pays the most to its employees.
Here is a chart that shows you different positions at Deloitte and what they pay:
| Position | Salary/Annum |
| Intern | $66,000 |
| Junior Consultant | $103,000 |
| Senior Consultant | $137,000 |
| Manager | $160,000 |
| Partner | $300,000 |
(Source)
But salary is not everything! Deloitte focuses on providing you with many other benefits, too.
Recently, the firm has started a special program for employees who are interested in adoption and surrogacy (Cover eligible expenses up to $50,000). (Source)
The company has also started in-network preventive services and specific cancer screenings, which include:
- Child checkups
- Women’s screenings (Like mammograms and Pap smears)
- Men’s checkups (Prostate testing)
All these medical tests are a huge part of what Deloitte does for you to keep you hale and hearty. And guess what? The firm is happy enough to cover you 100% for all of it. (Source)
A consultant working at Deloitte wrote on Glassdoor: “Working as a consultant at Deloitte has been a fulfilling experience for me. The salary is not only competitive but also reflective of the hard work we put in. Additionally, the extra perks and benefits go beyond expectations, creating a positive and supportive work environment. Deloitte truly values its employees and ensures that the compensation package is both fair and rewarding. Overall, it’s a great place to work, not just for the challenging projects but also for the recognition and rewards that come with it.” (Source)
2. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
PwC is second on my list in having the best salary package. It doesn’t leave any stone unturned in making the lives of employees a breeze! Even an intern here earns around $63,000 in a year (This is inspiring)!
The chart below shows you various position levels at PwC and their respective pay:
| Position Level | Salary Per Annum |
| Intern | $63,000 |
| Junior Consultant | $90,000 |
| Senior Consultant | $130,000 |
| Manager | $155,000 |
| Partner | $254,000 |
(Source)
Having mentioned that, the company has your future in mind with not one but two amazing retirement plans!
First up, there’s a 401(k) Savings Plan. This helps you take benefit from pre-tax, Roth, and post-tax savings.
Now, let’s talk about the Retirement Wealth Builder Plan (Based on your job level and experience).
Here’s a deal for new hires- When you join the PwC family, you’re in for a Wealth Builder bonus, a neat 1% of your eligible pay.
You can gradually vest in these contributions over five years. This is an amazing opportunity for building a solid retirement foundation. (Source)
PwC’s Student Loan Paydown (SLP) is something that sets it apart in the industry. If you’re an associate or senior associate, it gives you $1,200 a year towards your student loan. That’s right! Free money to help you tackle that debt. (Source)
3. Ernst & Young (EY)
EY has, time and again, proven that it cares a lot about its workforce. That’s why it doesn’t hesitate for even a second and offer them compensation that’s highly competitive, I must say! (Source)
Here’s a quick chart that shows different position levels at EY and the respective salaries:
| Position Level | Salary Per Annum |
| Intern | $62,000 |
| Junior Consultant | $88,000 |
| Senior Consultant | $124,000 |
| Manager | $150,000 |
| Partner | $235,000 |
(Source)
And that’s not it! The firm goes above and beyond to provide several other benefits to you. It offers you the Wellbeing Fund, in which EY covers 75% of the cost (up to $1,000 a year) for your gym membership, exercise gear, and even that super comfy home office furniture.
EY has definitely got your back, and they show it to you in the most amazing ways! (Source)
But it gets even better. Do you ever need a second opinion on health-related problems? Well, EY has got you covered with a program called “2nd.MD.” You have VIP access to top-notch doctors (All without you paying a dime). How thoughtful?
Apart from that, if you’re thinking about expanding your family, EY offers you “Pathways to Parenthood.”
This helps you out with fertility treatments, adoption, and surrogacy costs (up to $50,000). (Source)
And here’s something interesting: “Pathways to Transition.” The firm gives you up to $50,000 for gender transition-related expenses (Your regular health plan might not include).
4. Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG)
Well, KPMG’s compensation is the lowest among the Big 4 (Maybe because it’s the smallest one in terms of size).
This is a chart of KPMG in which I’ve highlighted the positions and their salaries:
| Position Level | Salary Per Annum |
| Intern | $50,000 |
| Junior Consultant | $80,000 |
| Senior Consultant | $115,000 |
| Manager | $149,000 |
| Partner | $230,000 |
(Source)
Although it’s the smallest firm, the benefits are truly worth it!
KPMG offers financial support to you for pursuing professional certifications. For example, the firm motivates you to go for Becker CPA Review. It’s a great course that covers accounting, finance, and project management. (Source)
Upon passing the CPA exams, KPMG reimburses application and sitting fees. And here’s what it does:
- If you pass the CPA exam before or within the first year of eligibility, you get $5,000.
- If you pass during the second year of employment or eligibility, you get $3,000.
And you know what? KPMG values you and your referrals. That’s why it shows appreciation through its Employee Referral Program. Here, you can receive up to $4,000 for successfully referring individuals to join the firm. (Source)
I discovered that all of these Big 4 companies care about you and make sure to provide the best compensation packages. Your hard work matters to them!




