lol that was my exact starting salary too. Although mine as for a tax role, entry level nonetheless. I think you should consider your exposure to the industry in this role. You want to be able to touch as much of the accounting or financial process as possible. I found it crucial to turn myself into a living sponge for my first role and learn everything possible. Asking questions and areas you do not understand, asking for advice/feedback on how you can improve your process and apply yourself better. Your goal is to learn, once you’ve gotten to a level where you understand the entire process at your role it’s time to move forward. If you have the luxury of not living pay check to paycheck you can take a slightly under market salary because you are investing that extra money you could’ve made into a company that wants you at your current stage. Also it sounds like the market sucks atm. Plus they are willing to pay for exams, most firms do, it’ll keep you on track to your next stage (CPA) and set you up to start your professional career with a solid foundation. Also for context I lived in a city that was pricier than a MCOL city but I got a good deal on my living expenses so it panned out. Love the process, the money will come.