Accountants Prices in London — How Much Does It Cost? (2026)
Local price ranges for accountants in London, including what affects costs and tips to get the best deal.
London pricing
London prices are typically 20–40% above the national average due to higher operating costs and demand. Budget accordingly when requesting quotes.
Always get at least 3 quotes from local providers before committing.
| Service | UK Typical Price | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | £50–£150(+20–40% in London) | per hour | — |
| Self Assessment return (sole trader) | £150–£500(+20–40% in London) | fixed | — |
| Limited company accounts + CT return | £600–£2,000(+20–40% in London) | per year | Turnover dependent |
| Monthly bookkeeping | £100–£400(+20–40% in London) | per month | — |
| VAT return (quarterly) | £60–£200(+20–40% in London) | per quarter | — |
| Payroll (per employee) | £5–£15(+20–40% in London) | per month | Per employee per month |
| Business start-up package | £200–£600(+20–40% in London) | fixed | — |
* London prices are 20–40% above the national average due to higher operating costs and demand. Add the indicated premium to estimate local costs.
What affects accountants prices in London?
- Business turnover and transaction volume
- Number of employees and complexity
- Software used (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage)
- ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualification of accountant
- Location
How to get the best accountants price in London
- 1Use cloud accounting software (Xero, FreeAgent) to reduce bookkeeping time
- 2Keep your own records organised throughout the year
- 3Compare fixed-fee packages online
- 4Ask about bundled annual packages rather than hourly billing
- 5Use MTD-compatible software to avoid compliance penalties
Accountants prices in other cities
Frequently asked questions
How much does a accountant cost in London?
Accountants in London typically charge 20–40% above the national average due to higher operating costs and demand compared to the UK average. A small limited company typically pays £600–£2,000/year for accounts preparation and corporation tax return. Sole traders using an accountant for Self Assessment pay £150–£500.
Do I need an accountant if I use accounting software?
Not necessarily for basic bookkeeping, but an accountant adds value at year-end (tax planning, statutory accounts) and for complex matters like VAT, payroll, R&D credits, and HMRC enquiries.
What qualifications should my accountant have?
Look for ACA (ICAEW), ACCA, or CIMA qualifications for full-service accounting. AAT-qualified accountants are suitable for bookkeeping and payroll. Always check they hold professional indemnity insurance.
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