Employment in Accounting, Tax, Bookkeeping & Payroll Services in Canada (2001-2024)

Accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services are vital pillars of Canada’s financial ecosystem. Tracking employment trends in this sector reveals not just economic cycles, but also the growing demand for financial services, tax compliance, and payroll expertise in a digitally evolving world.

From 40,198 employees in 2001 to an anticipated 57,490 in 2024, this sector demonstrates significant growth and resilience.

Yearly Employment Trends in Accounting & Tax Services (Canada)

Key Data Insights

2022: An additional 9% growth following the recovery trajectory.

Steady Growth Periods:
Notable growth between 2005-2015, with particularly strong gains in 2006 (+8%) and 2014 (+6%).

Major Declines:

• 2009: -5% amid the global financial crisis.
• 2020: A sharp -13% drop due to the pandemic’s impact.

Post-Pandemic Rebound:

2021 saw a 10% growth, showcasing a strong comeback.

Future Outlook for Canada’s Accounting Sector

Emerging Trends

• Digital Transformation: Cloud accounting and AI-driven bookkeeping are reshaping the workforce.
• Increased Tax Complexity: Demand for tax professionals is growing with more stringent compliance requirements.
• Payroll Innovations: Automation is creating new roles for data-savvy payroll experts.

Growth Opportunities

• Expanding financial tech (FinTech) sector.
• Increased support for small businesses needing accounting services.
• Consulting and advisory services growth alongside traditional bookkeeping.

Number of People Employed in Accounting & Tax Preparation Sector in Canada (2001-2024)

Year	Total Employees in Accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services	Growth YoY
2001	40,198
2002	39,389	-2%
2003	38,364	-3%
2004	37,842	-1%
2005	38,664	2%
2006	41,804	8%
2007	43,886	5%
2008	45,385	3%
2009	43,138	-5%
2010	43,810	2%
2011	45,775	4%
2012	45,617	0%
2013	47,218	4%
2014	50,049	6%
2015	51,865	4%
2016	51,348	-1%
2017	51,807	1%
2018	52,267	1%
2019	53,761	3%
2020	46,717	-13%
2021	51,245	10%
2022	55,736	9%
2023	56,720	2%
2024	57,490	1%

Source:

Statistics Canada. Table 14-10-0202-01  Employment by industry, annual