The Top 16 Accounting Firms to Know in 2025

Let’s be honest, choosing the right accounting firm isn’t just a box to check. It can shape your firm’s future, your growth, and even your sanity. Whether you’re a CPA juggling too many roles, a partner in a midsize firm trying to scale, or a solo EA drowning in tax season, the right support changes everything.

So, we did the research. Below are the top firms not just making waves but quietly reshaping how accounting firms grow, serve clients, and stay compliant in 2025. And we’re starting with the one you probably haven’t heard enough about.

Top Accounting Firms in 2025: Who’s Leading, Who’s Scaling, and Who’s Right for Your Business

These aren’t just the biggest names, they’re the firms changing how accounting gets done. From offshore talent to full-scale advisory, these leaders are helping firms work smarter, serve better, and grow without burning out.

1. Accountably, Better Together.

 

Here’s something you won’t hear from the Big Four: scaling shouldn’t come at the cost of your sanity, or your standards. That’s where Accountably comes in.

More than a staffing company, Accountably helps CPA, EA, and accounting firms grow smart, lean, and fast. They specialize in offshore accounting talent and back-office solutions designed specifically for the pain points firms face every tax season, audit cycle, and hiring freeze.

Why It Works:

• U.S.-compliant processes: Accountably ensures every staff member is trained with U.S. GAAP, IRS, and state-level tax compliance in mind.
• Cost-effective without compromise: You can scale your team by 1 or 10 without bloating your overhead.
• Plug-and-play team extension: Accountably doesn’t just hand you a résumé. They help you build a systemized team that works like an extension of your firm.

“We were burning out every March. Now, I’ve got two amazing offshore team members who close books, manage reports, and help prep returns, and I actually took a vacation,” one firm owner shared.

If you’re looking to offload busywork, expand profit margins, and free up your top talent for higher-value work, Accountably should be your first call, not your fallback.

2. PwC

PwC has long been known as a powerhouse, but what really sets it apart in 2025 is its unapologetic investment in technology and talent development.

What does that look like in real life?

• AI-enhanced audits that shave weeks off traditional workflows
• Real-time dashboards that give clients clarity on everything from tax exposure to financial KPIs
• A global mentoring program that helps new hires navigate corporate life (and actually grow)

If you’re a numbers nerd who thrives in large, structured environments, and doesn’t mind some bureaucracy, PwC is a solid bet. The firm’s carbon-neutral commitment by 2030 also makes it a good fit if sustainability matters to your clients or your values.

3. Deloitte

With a footprint in 150+ countries and over 300,000 employees, Deloitte doesn’t just talk big, it operates at a scale few can match.

But here’s the interesting part: they’ve figured out how to deliver local expertise with global power. Their regional offices operate like niche firms, but with the backing of a $36B global network.

• Want a tech-forward firm? Deloitte’s analytics teams are some of the best in the business.
• Need deep industry insight? Their sector-specific advisors know manufacturing, real estate, and healthcare inside-out.
• Interested in training? Deloitte’s in-house university makes even CPE feel cool.

If you’re mid-career and looking to specialize or if your firm wants to benchmark processes against the best in the world, Deloitte is worth your attention.

4. EY

EY isn’t just another global firm chasing numbers. Their edge lies in how they treat their people, and how that culture spills into client service.

• Inclusion isn’t lip service. You’ll feel it in onboarding, leadership pathways, and internal forums.
• Mentorship is intentional. From interns to directors, everyone gets paired with someone one level up.
• Innovation is hands-on. EY Labs brings staff into pilot programs for AI, sustainability, and ESG audits.

This is the firm for you if personal growth matters just as much as promotions, or if you want a partner who values diversity in the real, lived sense, not just a line on a pitch deck.

5. KPMG

KPMG doesn’t usually make headlines like its peers, but behind the scenes, it’s built a reputation for excellence, empathy, and ethics.

Their standout features:

• A flexible career track that doesn’t box you into audit forever
• Wellness programs that include actual therapist access, not just “wellness webinars”
• A global mobility path if you’re itching for international exposure

In a field often marked by burnout and churn, KPMG feels like the stable, kind sibling of the Big Four. Less flash, more follow-through.

6. Grant Thornton

If you want the prestige of a national firm without the feeling of being a cog in the machine, Grant Thornton may be your match. They punch above their weight, consistently ranking among the top five U.S. firms.

What makes them shine?

• Hands-on mentorship. Interns and junior staff get face time with leadership, not just PowerPoints.
• Room to grow. If you’re a high performer, they’ll notice, and promote accordingly.
• Inclusive culture. With clear DEI goals and a human-first approach, this is a firm where you can truly show up as yourself.

Their vibe is perfect for folks who want growth and work-life balance, without sacrificing client impact.

7. BDO USA

BDO USA has quietly become one of the fastest-growing accounting firms in the country, thanks to smart mergers, targeted service expansion, and a serious commitment to client service.

Highlights:

• $14B in projected revenue
• 97,000+ professionals across a growing national network
• Strong specialization in audit, tax, and advisory, especially for mid-market businesses

If you’re tired of firms that treat every client the same, BDO might be a breath of fresh air. They blend national horsepower with relationship-first service.

8. RSM US

RSM isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. Their sweet spot? Middle-market companies, and they own it.

With over 90 offices and nearly 20,000 professionals, RSM delivers:

• Deep industry expertise in healthcare, manufacturing, tech, and nonprofit
• A solid internal training culture
• A clear commitment to data, analytics, and cybersecurity

This is the firm for businesses that are too complex for small firms, but still want personalized support. It’s also where many ex-Big Four pros go when they want more autonomy with less red tape.

9. CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen)

With nearly 9,000 employees and a heavy footprint in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and construction, CLA is one of the most personalized mid-size firms in the U.S.

They specialize in:

• Matching services exactly to your industry’s quirks (not forcing templates)
• Offering wealth advisory for business owners
• Integrating tech in a way that actually simplifies your workflow, not complicates it

And if you’re wondering whether mid-size means second-tier? Think again. Their client retention is one of the best in the business, largely because of their “client-first, ego-never” approach.

10. Crowe

Not every top accounting firm aims to be everything to everyone. Crowe shines because it knows who it serves best, industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services.

What sets Crowe apart:

• Data-first mindset. They don’t just give you reports, they translate numbers into action plans.
• Global yet personal. Over 130 countries served, but with localized service that feels close-to-home.
• 4,500+ professionals and a $5.3B revenue footprint.

For businesses navigating regulation-heavy fields, Crowe’s advisory depth is more than a service, it’s peace of mind.

11. CohnReznick

CohnReznick isn’t trying to impress you with flashy ads. They’re busy being strategic partners to clients who need tailored, high-stakes advice.

Why firms (and employees) stay loyal:

• Client relationships last years, not quarters.
• Real-world insight is baked into everything, from audit to ESG consulting.
• Their leadership actually listens. Like, really listens.

If you’re tired of surface-level service and want a team that dives deep, CohnReznick may be your move.

12. Moss Adams

With over $1.33 billion in revenue and 4,750+ professionals, Moss Adams has built a legacy by staying focused on three things: innovation, people, and place.

They specialize in:

• Tech-forward service for industries like real estate and energy
• Strong cultural values (this is a firm that prioritizes retention and wellbeing)
• Community involvement that goes beyond PR

If you’re in the western U.S. and looking for top-tier talent without a Big Four vibe, Moss Adams is worth a serious look.

13. Accountably (Again) – From Staffing Solution to Strategic Growth Partner

Earlier we talked about how Accountably helps firms scale with offshore talent, but let’s zoom in on their real-world impact.

Here’s what clients are seeing:

• 30% increase in billable capacity during tax season
• 2X faster client turnaround with consistent offshore prep teams
• Dramatic reduction in partner workload by offloading admin-heavy tasks

They’re not just placing offshore staff, they’re building systems. They get that CPAs don’t want to babysit or micromanage; they want outcomes.

This is why more and more firms are quietly switching from “do-it-all” staffing vendors to Accountably’s accounting-native model.

Real quote: “Accountably helped us staff up and grow 40% year-over-year, without needing to hire domestically or burn out our team.”

14. Baker Tilly

If you’re looking at future-forward firms, Baker Tilly deserves your attention. With $5.2 billion in revenue and 44,000+ employees worldwide, they’re building more than just reports, they’re helping clients make meaningful change.

They’re especially strong in:

• ESG advisory and sustainability audits
• Forward-looking financial strategy (not just compliance)
• Technology adoption across all client service areas

This is the kind of firm that prepares your business for what’s next, not just what’s now.

15. EisnerAmper

EisnerAmper has become a go-to for firms in sectors like real estate, technology, and financial services. Why? Because they don’t try to be generalists. They double down on expertise where it matters.

With 1,800+ professionals and deep U.S. market reach, they offer:

• Industry-specific insights (not just general “best practices”)
• Specialized tax and audit services that actually match the field you’re in
• Consistent, high-touch communication with clients

If you want sharp, sector-specific support, this is your firm.

16. Plante Moran

Culture matters. And Plante Moran gets it right, teamwork, real collaboration, and shared wins.

Their 3,500+ professionals are backed by a system that prioritizes:

• Transparent communication across roles
• Career development rooted in real mentorship
• A culture that feels more like a smart community than a corporate ladder

If you’re looking for an accounting firm where talent retention isn’t an issue, Plante Moran walks the talk.

Bonus Shoutouts: Firms on the Rise

• Withum – Tech-friendly, socially responsible, and growing fast
• Cherry Bekaert – Big presence in the Southeast, with healthcare and manufacturing depth
• UHY Advisors – Client-first from day one, with a solid middle-market base
• Citrin Cooperman – Strategic, adaptable, and growing like wildfire
• Armanino – Innovators in cloud-based accounting and advisory
• Wipfli & Elliott Davis – Regional standouts with strong reputations and staff cultures

Choosing the Right Fit: It’s Not About Size, It’s About Strategy

Here’s the truth: The “top” firm for your needs might not be a Big Four or even a $1B+ firm. It might be Accountably, with its laser-focus on helping smaller firms grow smarter.

As you evaluate options:

• Look at who they serve. Does their client list feel like yours?
• Check for flexibility. Do they offer support that scales as you do?
• Ask about onboarding. Will they train your team or just hand off a body?

The right partner should free you up to actually run your firm, not give you more work.

So You’ve Shortlisted a Few Firms, Now What?

Let’s say you’ve explored the big players, admired the polished websites, and jotted down a few options. But before you sign that engagement letter, let’s zoom out.

Because what separates a good accounting firm from the right one isn’t their logo or client list, it’s how well they match your industry, growth stage, and expectations.

This next section unpacks the practical things you need to consider when choosing a partner (and not just a vendor), along with insider insight into firm types, pricing structures, and the unsung heroes of your books: tax planning, audits, and yes, even bookkeeping.

What Exactly Do Accounting Firms Do, Beyond Taxes?

At a glance, most people think accounting firms = taxes. But that’s barely scratching the surface. Let’s break it down:

Service	What It Really Means for You
Tax Planning & Prep	Reduce what you owe, stay compliant, and avoid last-minute chaos
Audit & Assurance	Confidence in your numbers and trust from stakeholders
Business Valuation	Know your worth for fundraising, selling, or internal planning
Financial Consulting	Translate reports into action, improve margins, forecast smarter
Bookkeeping	The backbone of your firm. Messy books? Say goodbye to clean audits
Industry-Specific Strategy	Healthcare billing, real estate tax strategy, energy regulation, you need experts who speak your language

Accounting today isn’t just about compliance, it’s about insight, efficiency, and growth.

Local vs. Global Firms: Which Is Right for You?

You’ll see this everywhere: “We offer personalized service with global reach.” But here’s the real tradeoff:

Local Firms	Global Giants
Know your region’s tax quirks	Broad technical depth and specialty teams
Easier access to partners	Standardized systems across locations
Often more responsive	More name recognition with banks/investors

If you’re a Houston-based real estate business, a local firm with zoning and property tax knowledge may beat a Big Four. But if you’re expanding globally or facing SEC audits? A firm like Deloitte might be a better fit.

Choosing an Accounting Firm? Start With These 5 Factors

It’s tempting to just go with the biggest name or the firm your competitor uses. But let’s be real, what works for a VC-backed tech startup may be completely wrong for your small agency or growing ecommerce brand.

Here’s what to actually look for when you’re making the call:

1. Industry-Specific Expertise

If your firm specializes in healthcare, real estate, manufacturing, or nonprofits, don’t settle for a generalist. You need someone who understands billing structures, compliance nuances, and sector-specific deductions. Firms like Accountably, CLA, and Cherry Bekaert shine here.

2. Service Breadth

Do they just file taxes, or can they help with audits, valuation, and strategic planning? Even small firms benefit from multi-service partners who understand the bigger picture.

3. Client Reviews and Referrals

Ignore the fluff on websites, go straight to peer reviews or ask for intros to long-time clients. Nothing tells the truth like a satisfied (or frustrated) client.

4. Accessibility and Communication

Do you get a partner’s cell number or just a help desk email? When things go sideways, during tax season, an audit, or a sale, you want access to actual humans.

5. Firm Size and Fit

Don’t assume bigger is better. A smaller firm like Accountably might deliver more value with less overhead if what you need is practical support, not prestige branding.

Pricing Models: What to Expect (And Budget For)

No one loves surprise invoices, especially when it comes to financial services. Accounting firm pricing typically falls into three categories:

Model	Best For	Watch Out For
Fixed Fee	Predictable tasks like monthly bookkeeping, payroll	Can lack flexibility for custom projects
Hourly	One-off consulting, cleanup work, complex audits	Costs can balloon quickly without scope clarity
Value-Based	Advisory, tax strategy, or high-impact services	Needs clear benchmarks to define “value”

💡 Pro Tip: Always ask for a detailed scope of work and hourly rates before onboarding. Firms like Accountably are transparent about costs, especially for offshore staffing or back-office packages.

What Audit & Assurance Really Means (Even if You’re Not Public)

“Do I really need an audit?” If you’ve ever asked that question, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: audit and assurance services aren’t just for public companies or billion-dollar enterprises.

They matter if:

• You’re applying for a loan
• You’re seeking investors
• You’re preparing to sell or merge
• You just want confidence that your books are clean

Firms like Weaver and Melton & Melton (or offshore teams through Accountably) offer audits that help you:

• Verify your financial statements
• Uncover errors or risky inconsistencies
• Show stakeholders you’re on top of compliance

It’s not just about crossing t’s and dotting i’s, it’s about building trust and reducing risk.

Tax Planning: The Real Key to Cash Flow

Too many business owners treat taxes like a once-a-year scramble. Smart firms treat it like a year-round strategy.

Here’s what real tax planning includes:

• Choosing the right entity structure (LLC, S-Corp, etc.)
• Timing revenue and expenses to reduce liability
• Maximizing credits (R&D, energy, depreciation)
• Planning distributions and owner compensation

In Houston, firms like Cherry Bekaert and Calvetti Ferguson excel at industry-specific tax strategies. Offshore teams via Accountably can also support prep and review cycles to reduce pressure during busy seasons.

If your CPA is only talking to you in April? You’re missing serious savings.

Bookkeeping: The Unsung Hero of Growth

Let’s be honest, bookkeeping isn’t sexy. But if it’s done wrong, everything falls apart.

What quality bookkeeping looks like:

• Every transaction is categorized accurately and consistently
• Financials are up to date monthly (not quarterly or “whenever”)
• Your P&L and balance sheet make sense at a glance

Tools like QuickBooks Online, Xero, or NetSuite help, but only if someone who knows what they’re doing is using them. That’s where firms like Accountably shine, especially with offshore talent that understands U.S. systems inside and out.

One Size Never Fits All: Why Industry Expertise Matters

Accounting isn’t a “universal language.” Healthcare billing is wildly different from construction payroll. Energy firms deal with regulations your average CPA may never touch.

Here’s a quick look at what different sectors actually need:

Industry	What to Look for in a Firm
Healthcare	Billing compliance, Medicare/Medicaid understanding, nonprofit tax experience
Energy/Utilities	Tax credit strategies, international structuring, audit compliance
Manufacturing	Cost accounting, inventory valuation, capex planning
Real Estate	Property tax strategy, income modeling, 1031 exchange expertise
Nonprofits	Donor reporting, restricted funds, Form 990 compliance
Logistics/Transportation	Cost control, fuel tax credits, equipment depreciation planning

Don’t make your accountant “learn your industry on the job.” Firms like Accountably, CLA, and Blazek & Vetterling bring real-world niche experience.

Offshore vs. In-House: What Actually Works?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: offshore staffing. Is it just about saving money? Not if you’re doing it right.

OffShore pros (when done well):

• Scale fast during tax season or audit crunch
• Cut staffing costs by up to 50%
• Tap into highly trained talent who understand U.S. standards
• Free up your local team for client-facing, high-value work

The catch?

You need structure, oversight, and strong training. That’s why firms like Accountably don’t just hand you offshore talent, they build an integrated system with compliance, SOPs, and full visibility.

💡 In many firms, offshore staff now handle:

• Monthly close
• Tax return prep
• Reconciliations
• Management reporting

If your local team is stretched thin or you’ve hit hiring roadblocks, offshore might be your secret weapon, not a compromise.

Back Office Support: Not Just for the Big Guys

Think back office = big firm luxury? Think again. Even solo CPAs can offload things like:

• AP/AR management
• Payroll processing
• Client communication templates
• Report packaging and review prep

Accountably offers full back-office support designed for small to mid-sized accounting firms who want scale without burnout. This isn’t just a service, it’s a growth strategy.

Trends Reshaping Accounting Right Now

Accounting is evolving fast, and if your firm (or your partner firm) isn’t adapting, you’re falling behind.

Here are some of the biggest shifts we’re seeing in 2025:

• AI & Automation: From reconciliation to tax prep, tools powered by AI are shaving hours off routine work. But they’re only as good as the humans guiding them.
• Cloud-Based Accounting: Real-time data, instant collaboration, zero paper. If you’re still emailing spreadsheets? It’s time to level up.
• Advisory Services Growth: Clients want strategy, not just spreadsheets. The best firms are becoming financial co-pilots.
• ESG & Sustainability Reporting: This is no longer optional in many sectors, especially energy, manufacturing, and finance.
• Outsourcing & Offshore Expansion: Firms like Accountably are proving that smart offshore support can fuel growth without diluting quality.

Certifications That Actually Matter

Anyone can say they “know taxes.” But the right credentials tell you a firm’s pros are trained, tested, and held to ethical standards.

Here’s what to look for:

Credential	What It Tells You
CPA (Certified Public Accountant)	State-licensed, top-tier education and ethics
CMA (Certified Management Accountant)	Strong in financial strategy and forecasting
CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)	Focus on controls, fraud prevention, and audit
CGMA (Chartered Global Management Accountant)	Global financial leadership expertise
AICPA Membership	Affiliation with the leading U.S. accounting body

Pro tip: Ask firms to share the certifications of team members actually handling your account, not just the partners on the masthead.

Hiring an Accounting Firm? Avoid These Common Mistakes

Choosing the wrong accounting partner can cost more than just money, it can derail growth, invite penalties, and stress your team.

Here are the biggest missteps we see:

• Choosing based on price alone (cheapest ≠ best)
• Overlooking industry experience
• Skipping the communication test (If they’re slow to reply during onboarding, imagine tax season)
• Assuming big firms = better service
• Not asking for real client references

The antidote? Do your homework. Ask the right questions. And seriously, don’t ignore your gut.

Final Thought: This Isn’t Just About Compliance, It’s About Growth

The right accounting firm is more than a vendor, they’re a strategic ally. Whether that’s a global brand, a regional powerhouse, or an offshore partner like Accountably, your choice impacts everything from cash flow to career sanity.

So be picky. Be strategic. And don’t just look at who’s “top”, look at who’s right for you.

Final Take: Choose Growth, Not Just a Name

Whether you’re exploring the Big Four, strong mid-tiers, or niche partners like Accountably, the best firm is the one that understands your goals, works how you work, and helps you grow without burning out.

The future of accounting isn’t about being the biggest. It’s about being smart, agile, and aligned.

And if you’re ready to scale without stress? You already know where to start.

Talk to Accountably.