Top Consulting Firms in the US – Best Firms to Work for 2024
Thinking about jumping into the world of consulting? It's a smart move, especially if you enjoy providing customized advice to help businesses succeed. The US is home to many top-tier consulting firms that offer opportunities for both newbies as well as experienced professionals.
But picking the right consulting firm can be tricky. That's why we have curated a list of some of the best consulting firms to work for in the United States to help you choose the best consulting employer for your career path.
So, let's take a look at the top consulting firms in the US and find you the perfect place to kickstart your career!
- What Do Consulting Firms Actually Do?
- MBB, the Big Four, and Tier 2 – How Are Consulting Firms Classified?
- MBB (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) – The Most Prestigious Consulting Firms in the World
- McKinsey & Company
- Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
- Bain & Company
- The Big Four Accounting Firms in the US
- Deloitte
- PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
- KPMG
- EY (Ernst & Young)
- Tier 2 Consulting Firms in the US
- Accenture
- Altman Solon
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- EY-Parthenon
- FTI Consulting
- Kearney
- L.E.K.
- OC&C
- Oliver Wyman
- Simon-Kucher
- Strategy&
- Boutique Consulting Firms in the US
- Conclusion
What Do Consulting Firms Actually Do?
Generally speaking, consulting firms provide advice on all kinds of business challenges. From strategy development to operational process optimization or IT implementation, consulting firms are mostly hired for complex projects that need special expertise, data-driven insights or an external perspective.
Consulting firms serve businesses, organizations, and government agencies and vary in the specific services they offer as well as in the industries they advise. While prestigious top-firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain (MBB) focus primarily on strategy consulting, tier 2 firms like Oliver Wyman or Kearney offer broader services in the areas of management consulting or organizational development. Also relevant are the Big Four accounting firms (Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, and EY) that have increasingly extended their core business in tax and accounting to advisory services.
As we haven’t even started talking about IT consulting firms, like Accenture or Capgemini, or considering the hundreds of specialized niche and boutique consultancies, one thing already becomes quite clear: The consulting industry is diverse and covers all kinds of functions and sectors. Hence, career opportunities in consulting are extremely attractive and popular, what makes it important to understand the industry to make an informed decision about which consulting firm may be the best fit for you.
MBB, the Big Four, and Tier 2 – How Are Consulting Firms Classified?
Consulting firms can be classified into various categories, distinguishing them from one another. It's essential to be aware of these categories when deciding which type of consulting firm would suit your career. Here are the different categories that are generally used:
MBB (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) – The Most Prestigious Consulting Firms in the World
MBB, consisting of McKinsey & Company, the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company are the most prestigious and top-ranked firms in the consulting industry. They are global leaders in strategy consulting with a strong presence and influence in the United States. Their names are synonymous with excellence, innovation, and ambition.
Known for their prestige, exceptional compensation, and generous benefits, McKinsey, BCG, and Bain are the first names that come to mind for candidates seeking a career in strategy consulting. Consultants that work for MBB are some of the best paid and beyond that, the “Big Three” offer diverse graduate programs and roles that attract top-talents from across the globe. Therefore, McKinsey, BCG, and Bain, are growing fast and have an increasingly high impact on the business world.
If you're willing to prioritize career advancement over work-life balance, a career at McKinsey, BCG, or Bain could be rewarding for your life-long career. These leading consulting firms attract thousands of applicants each year, and securing a position promises exciting opportunities for future career growth.
Let’s find out more about each firm and take a look at key facts and figures.
McKinsey & Company is globally known as one of the most prestigious consulting firms in the world. Founded in 1926 by James O. McKinsey, the firm was originally based in Chicago and initially focused on accounting and engineering. It soon shifted its focus to management consulting and became a pioneer in the field. Over the years, McKinsey has grown to become one of the world’s leading strategy consulting firms, providing advisory services to corporates, governments, and non-profit organizations.
Key facts and figures about McKinsey in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Bob Sternfels
Number of employees 2023: 9,500 (45,000 globally)
Total revenue 2023: $13.5B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 25+ (130+ globally)
Famous McKinsey alumni:
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Sheryl Sandberg (former COO of Facebook)
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Ray Dalio (founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the world's largest hedge funds)
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Eric Schmidt (former CEO of Google and former Executive Chairman of Alphabet Inc.)
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Delphine Arnault (Executive Vice President of Louis Vuitton and Board Member of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about McKinsey:
👉 McKinsey Personal Experience Interview
👉 McKinsey Problem Solving Game
👉 McKinsey Internship Application
The Boston Consulting Group, commonly known as BCG, is a global strategy consulting firm that was founded in 1963 by Bruce D. Henderson, a former employee of Arthur D. Little. One of the core aspects of BCG's founding principles was that strategy is the primary driver of competitive differentiation – a view that diverged from some of the prevailing perspectives in the 1960s, which often placed greater emphasis on operations and efficiency. By now, BCG has expanded its service offerings to include areas such as strategy, operations, technology, and organization. The company operates in over 50 countries with a network of over 100 offices worldwide.
Key facts and figures about BCG in the United States:
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
CEO: Christoph Schweizer
Number of employees 2023: 9,300 (30,000 globally)
Total revenue 2023: $11.7B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 100+ (globally)
Famous BCG alumni:
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Stephen A. Schwarzman (founder and CEO of the Blackstone Group, one of the world's largest private equity firms)
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Ann Cairns (Executive Vice Chair of Mastercard)
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Indra Nooyi (former CEO of PepsiCo)
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Sheryl Sandberg (COO of Facebook)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about BCG:
Bain was founded in 1973 by William (Bill) Bain, a former vice president of BCG and is a global strategy consulting firm. As a global management consulting leader, Bain is distinguished by its transformative approach, offering comprehensive services in strategy, marketing, operations, and digital transformation. With the use of Results360® methodology, they empower clients to navigate complexities and achieve enduring success.
Key facts and figures about Bain & Company in the United States:
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
CEO: Manny Maceda
Number of employees 2023: 19,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $6B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 58 (globally)
Famous Bain alumni:
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Jeffrey R. Immelt (former CEO of General Electric)
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Margo Georgiadis (former CEO of Mattel and former President of Google, Americas)
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Jane Fraser (CEO of Citigroup, who became the first woman to lead a major Wall Street bank)
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Sarah Friar (CEO of Nextdoor and former CFO of Square)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about Bain & Company:
The Big Four Accounting Firms in the US
The Big Four accounting firms – Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), and KPMG – are some of the largest and most prestigious professional services firms in the world. They provide a wide range of consulting services, including audit, tax, advisory, and technology consulting, to clients across a variety of industries.
Known for their global reach, deep industry expertise, and commitment to delivering high-quality services to their clients, the Big Four advise clients on critical issues such as digital transformation, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. With a combined workforce of over a million professionals worldwide, they are major players in the consulting industry and integral to the financial and business ecosystem in the United States.
👉 Gain more insights about the differences between the Big Four.
👉 Find out about the differences between MBB and the Big Four.
Deloitte, established in 1845, is a globally recognized professional services firm operating in over 150 countries. It provides a comprehensive suite of services, including audit, tax, consulting, risk management, and financial advisory. The firm is dedicated to understanding and meeting client needs through tailored solutions. With a strong emphasis on innovation and technology, Deloitte addresses intricate challenges across diverse industries. Committed to corporate social responsibility, talent development, and thought leadership, the firm continues to shape the professional services arena by promoting excellence, fostering innovation, and contributing positively to the global business community.
Key facts and figures about Deloitte in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Jason Girzadas
Number of employees 2023: 171,000 (457,000 globally)
Total revenue 2023: $32.7B ($64.9B globally)
Number of offices 2023: 80+ (700+globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about Deloitte:
👉 Deloitte Career Opportunities
PwC is a leading auditing and consulting services organization in the United States. The roots of PwC can be traced to the founding of two separate firms, Price Waterhouse and Coopers & Lybrand, in the mid-1800s. Both firms became leading names in the accounting profession and played significant roles in the field of auditing. The firms merged in 1998 to form PricewaterhouseCoopers, which later rebranded to PwC and assists clients across all industries, from corporations to family-owned businesses, global players to local heroes, and public sector entities to NGOs, in achieving their goals.
Key facts and figures about PwC in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Robert E. Moritz (global)
Number of employees 2023: 60,000 (US), 364,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $53.1B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 79 (740+ globally)
KPMG is a global network of professional firms that provide audit, tax, and advisory services. The history of KPMG starts in the late 19th century. It was formed in 1987 through the merger of respected accounting firms, and has expanded its reach to over 150 countries. Offering a wide array of services, KPMG is dedicated to delivering excellence while contributing to societal progress. Today, it remains a global leader, known for its commitment to integrity, innovation, and client satisfaction.
Key facts and figures about KPMG in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Paul Knopp (global)
Number of employees 2023: 35,000 (273,000 globally)
Total revenue 2023: $36B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 75 (650+ globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about KPMG:
Ernst & Young, commonly known as EY, has a long-standing history and strong presence in the consulting industry of the United States. The firm's roots date back to the 19th century, with the founding of its predecessor firms, Ernst & Ernst in Cleveland, Ohio, and Arthur Young & Co. in Chicago. In 1989 the two of them merged with the merger being one of the largest in the history of the accounting profession at the time. The merged firms later rebranded to EY in 2013 to better reflect its global reach and integrated service offerings. Today, EY continues to uphold its legacy of excellence and remains committed to its purpose of building a better working world by providing quality services, fostering trust, and driving positive change.
Key facts and figures about EY in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Janet Truncale (global)
Number of employees 2023: 95,000 (395,000 globally)
Total revenue 2023: $19.1B ($49B globally)
Number of offices 2023: 131 (700+ globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about EY:
Tier 2 Consulting Firms in the US
Tier 2 consulting firms in the United States are highly respected within specialized niches and regional markets, offering solutions to meet clients' unique needs. While they lack the global reach of top-tier firms, their deep expertise and focused approaches make them valuable partners for organizations seeking specialized consulting support. Despite operating on a smaller scale, tier 2 firms are known for their quality work, commitment to client satisfaction, and ability to deliver tangible results in specific industries or business challenges.
Accenture is a global professional services firm offering a diverse range of capabilities, including consulting, strategy, digital, technology, and operations services. With approximately 733,000 talented individuals across 120+ countries, Accenture leverages technology to catalyze change, fostering strong ecosystem relationships and combining expertise in cloud, data, and AI with industry knowledge.
In the United States, Accenture created smaller, specialized companies to expand its services. While not quite comparable to traditional boutique consulting firms, these smaller units, such as Accenture Interactive for digital marketing and customer experience and Accenture Strategy for strategy consulting, do specialize in specific areas. This strategic approach enhances Accenture's ability to meet diverse client needs in the US business environment.
Key facts and figures about Accenture in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Julie Sweet
Number of employees 2023: 733,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $63.1B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 50 (US)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about Accenture:
👉 Accenture Career Opportunities
👉 Accenture Application Process.
Altman Solon is a global strategy consulting firm that holds a prominent position in the United States, specializing in the technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sectors. With a focus on TMT, Altman Solon has shaped the industry by aiding in fiber network deployment, guiding mobile carriers through 5G evolution, and assisting media companies in adapting to streaming disruptions. The firm advises technology firms on cloud computing and evaluates deals for major investors globally.
In the USA, Altman Solon is a prominent player, offering tailored solutions within the TMT sector. Their expertise spans market research, competitive analysis, and strategic planning, earning them a reputation as trusted advisors.
Key facts and figures about Altman Solon in the United States:
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
CEO: Rory J. Altman
Number of employees 2023: 500+
Total revenue 2023: $100+ M (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 13 (globally)
Alvarez & Marsal was founded in 1983 by Tony Alvarez and Bryan Marsal with a mission to drive operational excellence and value creation for businesses worldwide. The firm's core areas of specialization include performance improvement, turnaround management, and business advisory services and specializes in uncovering and implementing the right solutions at the right time, providing leadership, problem-solving, and value creation across industries and around the world.
While not as expansive as larger consulting firms, Alvarez & Marsal's distinct focus enables it to provide customized solutions, positioning the firm as a valuable asset for companies seeking expert guidance in tackling critical business challenges.
Key facts and figures about Alvarez & Marsal in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Bryan Marsal
Number of employees 2023: 9,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $1.2B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 80+ (globally)
Booz Allen Hamilton is a global consulting firm deeply rooted in the United States, stands out in the field of management and technology consulting. Its expertise is highly regarded, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, analytics, digital transformation, and engineering, making it a go-to choice for both government agencies and commercial enterprises.
Booz Allen Hamilton prioritizes diversity, multiculturalism, and civic engagement to bolster communities. Guided by integrity and fearlessness, they aid clients in tackling challenges and building a brighter future. Their commitment to innovation ensures continuous improvement in supporting employees, customers, and global initiatives.
Key facts and figures about Booz Allen Hamilton in the United States:
Headquarter: Mclean, Virginia
CEO: Horacio Rozanski
Number of employees 2023: 32,600 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $7.9B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 80+ (globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about Booz Allen Hamilton:
👉 Booz Allen Hamilton Case Interview
EY-Parthenon, as part of Ernst & Young (EY), specializes in strategic consulting services globally, including a notable presence in the United States. The firm's core areas of expertise encompass mergers and acquisitions, market analysis, and corporate strategy, where it applies rigorous analytics and data-driven insights to assist clients.
With consultants skilled in strategy consulting and advanced analytics, the firm prioritizes collaboration to develop solutions that drive sustainable growth and value creation. EY-Parthenon's commitment to delivering high-quality strategic advice enables clients to navigate complexities and achieve long-term objectives effectively.
Key facts and figures about EY-Parthenon in the United States:
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
CEO: Jeff Wray
Number of employees 2023: 9,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $3B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 44+ (globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about EY Parthenon:
👉 EY Parthenon Career Opportunities
FTI Consulting is a global business advisory firm headquartered in Washington, D.C. The firm was founded in 1982 and is recognized for its expertise in areas such as forensic and litigation consulting, economic consulting, strategic communications, and technology services.
In the United States, FTI Consulting holds a significant presence, offering strategic advisory services to corporations, law firms, and government entities. The firm's multidisciplinary approach allows it to address a wide spectrum of issues, including legal disputes, regulatory compliance, and business transformation.
Key facts and figures about FTI Consulting in the United States:
Headquarter: Washington, District of Columbia
CEO: Steven H. Gunby
Number of employees 2023: 8,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $3.5B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 118 (globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about FTI Consulting:
👉 FTI Consulting Career Opportunities
Kearney, formerly known as A.T. Kearney, is a global management consulting firm and was founded in 1926. It is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
Kearney offers strategic advisory services to clients spanning consumer products, retail, healthcare, technology, and telecommunications industries. Renowned for its expertise in strategy, operations, mergers and acquisitions, digital transformation, and organizational restructuring, Kearney emphasizes collaboration to foster sustainable growth and value creation.
Key facts and figures about Kearney in the United States:
Headquarter: Chicago, Illinois
CEO: Alex Liu
Number of employees 2023: 5,700 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $148+ M (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 60+ (globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about Kearney:
👉 Kearney Career Opportunities
L.E.K. Consulting is a global management consulting firm with a notable presence in the United States. Specializing in strategy consulting, L.E.K. prioritizes diversity, seeking individuals who reflect the global marketplace and communities they serve. The company values intellectual curiosity, analytical thinking, and evidence-based solutions.
In the US, L.E.K. stands out as a key player, providing strategic solutions to help clients address complex business challenges. The firm's expertise covers areas such as mergers and acquisitions, market entry strategy, and performance improvement.
Key facts and figures about L.E.K.in the United States:
Headquarter: Boston, Massachusetts
CEO: Iain Evans
Number of employees 2023: 1,600 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $1.1B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 21 (globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about L.E.K.:
OC&C Strategy Consultants, often referred to as simply OC&C, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1987. The firm was established in London, United Kingdom, by three partners: Geoff Cullinan, Tim O’Gorman, and Chris Outram. The firm specializes in assisting top management of major multinational corporations, leading national companies, private equity firms, governmental institutions, and other public entities in developing winning strategies.
OC&C has gained reputation for delivering top-tier strategic advice rooted in rigorous analysis and extensive industry insight. This commitment to excellence has propelled the firm's expansion, attracting top talent and clientele worldwide. Today, OC&C stands as a premier strategy consulting firm with a global footprint, serving diverse industries and regions. Despite its growth, the firm remains true to its founding principles of excellence, independence, and unwavering client focus.
Key facts and figures about OC&C in the United States:
Headquarter: London
CEO: Chris Outram
Number of employees 2023: 873 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $84M (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 14 (globally)
Check out our further resources on the following topics about OC&C:
Oliver Wyman was established in 1984 and has grown into a powerhouse with a presence in major cities across the globe, including New York, London, Paris, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The firm serves a diverse clientele and specializes in strategy, operations, risk management, organizational transformation. and digital transformation. Its consultants bring a unique blend of industry experience, analytical rigor, and creative thinking to each engagement, ensuring impactful results.
Beyond consulting services, Oliver Wyman is also actively engaged in corporate social responsibility initiatives, supporting community development, environmental sustainability, and diversity and inclusion efforts.
Key facts and figures about Oliver Wyman in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Nick Studer
Number of employees 2023: 7,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $2.5B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 60+ (globally)
Check out our further ressources on the following topics about Oliver Wyman:
👉 Oliver Wyman Career Opportunities
👉 Oliver Wyman Numerical Reasoning Test
Simon-Kucher & Partners is a global management consulting firm which specializes in strategy, marketing, pricing, and sales and was founded in 1985 by Prof. Dr. Hermann Simon, Dr. Eckhard Kucher, and Dr. Karl-Heinz Sebastian. The headquarters are in Germany, but the impact is global and so are the career opportunities.
Simon-Kucher is known for its expertise in optimizing pricing strategies, maximizing revenue, and driving profitable growth for companies. Through innovation and collaboration, Simon-Kucher works closely with clients across industries like automotive, consumer goods, healthcare, technology, and telecommunications to develop strategies that address their specific challenges and needs.
Key facts and figures about Simon-Kucher in the United States:
Headquarter: Bonn, Germany
CEO: Andreas von der Gathen
Number of employees 2023: 2,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $5.63M (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 45 (globally)
Check out our further ressources on the following topics about Simon-Kucher:
Strategy& is an international strategy consulting firm that was founded in 1914 as Booz Allen Hamilton and has been an independent part of the PricewaterhouseCoopers network since the merger on April 3, 2014. With a focus on collaboration and partnership, Strategy& works closely with clients to understand their unique needs and develop strategies that drive sustainable growth and value creation. The firm's global presence allows it to serve clients across multiple geographies and industries.
Key facts and figures about Strategy& in the United States:
Headquarter: New York, New York
CEO: Peter Gassmann
Number of employees 2023: 3,000 (globally)
Total revenue 2023: $2.93B (globally)
Number of offices 2023: 688 (globally)
Check out our further ressources on the following topics about Strategy&:
Boutique Consulting Firms in the US
Boutique consulting firms are smaller management consulting firms that specialize in niche areas or industries. They offer highly specialized services and personalized solutions tailored to the unique needs of their clients. While they may lack the global reach of larger firms, boutique consultancies excel at delivering value through deep expertise, agility, and direct access to senior consultants. By concentrating on specific domains, they develop in-depth knowledge and stay at the forefront of industry trends. This expertise enables them to offer unique insights and innovative solutions not typically available from larger consulting firms.
Here are some examples of boutique consulting firms in the US:
ghSMART specializes in assisting organizations with business and human behavior.
The Bridgespan Group specializes in social impact consulting for nonprofits, foundations, investors, and corporations.
Eagle Hill operates across five sectors: financial services, public service, nonprofit, health and life sciences, and media, technology, and entertainment.
Putnam Associates specializes exclusively in life science consulting.
Conclusion
Choosing a consulting career in the US is a strategic and fulfilling option for those who want to offer customized business advice. With top firms providing opportunities for professionals at all levels, that’s the reason why the consulting career is so varied and challenging. Consulting firms, as outlined in this guide, play a crucial role in addressing various business challenges, from strategy development to IT implementation.
Categorizing firms into groups like MBB, Tier 2, Big Four, and boutique consultancies offers insights into their unique opportunities and helps to navigate through the multiple options for you as an aspiring consultant. MBB firms excel in prestige and global impact, especially in strategy consulting. The Big Four provide versatility and extensive resources, while boutique consultancies offer specialized expertise tailored to specific industries.
If you consider a career in consulting, understanding these categories is essential for aligning personal goals with the right firm. Whether you’re aspiring to work in a high-profile global setting, seek versatile experiences in a large organization, or specialize in a boutique consultancy, we hope this guide helps you to find the ideal starting point for a fulfilling professional journey!
