Best Professional Accounting Software for macOS (Desktop & Cloud)
If you are a Mac user and run a business, finding a powerful accounting software that works smoothly with your system can be challenging. Many popular accounting tools have traditionally focused on Windows or cloud-only platforms, but today there are several strong solutions available specifically for macOS that offer powerful features for bookkeeping, invoicing, reporting, and overall financial management.
Whether you run a small business, manage personal finances, or handle multiple clients, choosing the right accounting software for Mac can save time, improve accuracy, and give you a clear view of your financial health. Popular tools come with features such as automated bank feeds, professional invoicing, multi-currency support, budget tracking, and customizable reports, making accounting simpler and more efficient.
Today, Mac users have no shortage of accounting software options. Some are available as desktop applications, while others are cloud-based. In this blog post, we have selected the best accounting software for macOS from both categories, so you can easily choose the most suitable solution for your business.
Best Accounting Software for macOS (Desktop)
Desktop accounting software for macOS is an excellent option for users who value offline access, data privacy, and high performance while managing their financial work. Whether you are a freelancer, a small business owner, or running a growing company, there is a desktop accounting tool available to meet every need.
Below, we have listed some of the best accounting software for macOS, from which you can choose the one that suits your requirements the best.
1. AccountEdge Pro
AccountEdge Pro for Mac is a powerful and reliable accounting software designed for business owners who want complete control over their financial systems. With deep accounting features, advanced reporting, and strong inventory and payroll management, it is a solid choice for businesses that prefer desktop-based financial tools over cloud-only solutions.
AccountEdge Pro is a desktop-based accounting system that runs locally on your Mac. Unlike cloud-only software, it gives you full control over your data without depending on a constant internet connection. It includes all the core accounting features that any business needs, from general ledger and invoicing to payroll and budgeting.
Key Features of AccountEdge Pro:
• Invoicing & Billing
• Accounts Payable & Receivable
• Payroll Management
• Inventory Tracking
• Bank Reconciliation
• Financial Reporting
• Tax-ready charts & export tools
Pricing Overview
AccountEdge offers flexible pricing plans designed to suit different business needs from basic desktop accounting to cloud-enabled access and team collaboration.
AccountEdge Pro – $20/month
This is the entry-level plan designed for single-user desktop accounting. It runs locally on your Mac or Windows computer and includes essential features to manage your business finances, with free email support included.
AccountEdge Network Edition – $30/month
This plan is ideal for small teams. It includes everything in Pro but adds multi-user support, allowing two users to access the company file simultaneously on the desktop.
AccountEdge Hosted – $50/month
For businesses that need remote or browser-based access, the Hosted plan lets you access AccountEdge through a web browser. It supports both single and multi-user access and includes free technical support.
Optional Add-Ons (Extend Functionality)
In addition to the main plans, AccountEdge offers add-ons to enhance your setup:
• Payroll Add-On – $20/month
• AccountEdge Connect – from $15/month
• Bank Feeds – $5/month
• Telephone Support – $10/month
Note:- For the most accurate and latest pricing information, always check AccountEdge's official pricing page, as prices vary by country, license type, and currency.
2. MoneyWorks
MoneyWorks is a flexible and feature-rich accounting software that runs on both Mac and Windows systems. It is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses manage their finances easily. Whether you need basic bookkeeping or advanced multi-user accounting, MoneyWorks offers scalable options to match your requirements.
MoneyWorks is an integrated accounting system that works as a desktop application on macOS while also supporting cloud-based options. It brings together essential financial tools such as general ledger, invoicing, inventory management, multi-currency support, and reporting on a single platform.
It is ideal for businesses that want the power of desktop accounting with optional cloud features, giving you flexibility, customization, and local control over your data.
Key Features of MoneyWorks:
• Core Accounting Tools
• Multi-Currency Support
• Inventory & Job Costing
• Advanced Reporting
• Custom Scripting & Automation
Pricing Overview
MoneyWorks is a flexible and scalable accounting software suite that offers multiple pricing options to suit different business needs. It covers everything from simple cash tracking for small organizations to full accounting and enterprise-level, ERP-style solutions. The pricing structure includes free options, subscription plans, and perpetual licenses, making it attractive for startups, growing businesses, and established companies alike.
I. Free & Entry-Level
• MoneyWorks Cashbook — $0 per month
A basic cashbook/ledger system with general accounting features. It’s free to use.
II. Monthly Subscription Plans (Cloud/Desktop)
These are approximate subscription prices per month in USD:
Express — $19.80/month
• Small businesses needing invoicing + ledger basics.
Gold — $30.90/month
• Full desktop accounting with multi-currency, inventory, cost centers.
Datacentre (Single Company File)— $43.52/month
• Network/server version for multi users.
Datacentre (With Extra Users) — $60–$75+/month
• Expanded multi-user support.
III. Perpetual License (One-Time Purchase)
Some distributors list one-time purchase prices (desktop licenses) instead of monthly subscriptions:
Cashbook — Free
Express — $249–$260
Gold — $499–$525
Datacentre (multi-user) — $2,299+
Note:- Always check the official MoneyWorks pricing page for the most accurate and latest pricing information in your market. Prices may vary by region and currency.
3. Moneyspire
Moneyspire is a simple yet powerful accounting software for personal and small business use, designed to help users manage their finances in an organized and stress-free way. It is available for macOS, Windows, and Linux, making it a flexible option for those who want a lightweight and reliable accounting solution without the complexity of enterprise-level software.
Moneyspire focuses on ease of use while still providing essential financial management tools. It allows users to track income and expenses, manage bank accounts, create budgets, and monitor cash flow through a clean and intuitive dashboard. It is perfect for individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who want full control over their finances without needing advanced accounting knowledge.
One of Moneyspire’s biggest strengths is its offline functionality. Unlike many cloud-based platforms, Moneyspire stores data locally on your computer, giving you better privacy, faster performance, and access to your financial records even without an internet connection. Additionally, optional cloud sync features are available for backups and multi-device access.
Key Features of Moneyspire:
• Easy income and expense tracking
• Multiple account management
• Budget planning and financial forecasting
• Invoice creation for small businesses and freelancers
• Bill reminders and recurring transactions
• Financial reports such as profit & loss and account summaries
• Multi-currency support
• Secure local data storage
Pricing Overview
Moneyspire uses a simple and transparent pricing model based on a one-time purchase license instead of recurring subscriptions. This means you pay once and own the software forever, with optional paid upgrades and services available if needed.
One-Time License (for new users)
Moneyspire offers a one-time purchase license, usually priced around $59.99 USD, or sometimes available at a discounted rate from the original price. This is a lifetime license, which means you can use the software permanently without renewing any subscription.
Upgrade License
If you already own an older version of Moneyspire, an upgrade license (typically around $49.99 USD) allows you to install the latest version at a lower one-time cost.
Cross-Platform Access Included
A single license allows you to install Moneyspire on all your personal computers, including macOS, Windows, Linux, and even Chromebooks, without paying extra for each platform.
Note:- Always check the official Moneyspire pricing page for the latest pricing information and any seasonal discounts. Prices may vary with promotions or regional offers.
Best Accounting Software for macOS (Cloud)
Cloud accounting software for macOS allows you to access your financial data from anywhere, giving you the freedom to work without limitations on your MacBook, iPad, iPhone, Windows PC, or any mobile device. Whether you are a freelancer tracking bills, a startup managing cash flow, or a small business owner looking to simplify accounting, there is a solution that fits your needs. Below, we have listed some of the best accounting software for macOS, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
1. QuickBooks
QuickBooks is a top choice for Mac users who want professional accounting software with a friendly interface. It is very popular because of its user-friendly design and powerful automation features, which allow business owners to easily track income and expenses, create professional invoices, manage cash flow, and monitor business performance in real time. With QuickBooks, you don’t need deep accounting knowledge to maintain accurate financial records.
Unlike cloud-only solutions, QuickBooks for Mac primarily works as a desktop application. This means your data is stored locally on your system, giving you more control, faster performance, and the ability to work even without an internet connection. It is an ideal option for businesses that value privacy, stability, and offline access.
One of the biggest strengths of QuickBooks for Mac is its advanced reporting system. You can easily generate profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow reports, sales summaries, and tax-related reports. These reports provide a clear picture of your business’s financial health and help you make smarter financial decisions.
Key Features of QuickBooks:
• Easy Invoicing
• Expense Tracking
• Inventory Management
• Bill Management
• Financial Reporting
• Bank Reconciliation
• Automated Accounting Tasks
• Payroll Management
• Tax Preparation Tools
• Integration with Other Solutions
Pricing Overview
QuickBooks’ flexible pricing plans make it suitable for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are just starting out or managing a growing company, QuickBooks offers several options to match your needs and budget. Most plans are subscription-based, which means you pay monthly or annually. This makes it affordable and also easy to upgrade as your business grows.
QuickBooks Desktop Pricing (Annual or Legacy Licenses)
QuickBooks desktop versions are installed on your computer and were previously available as a one-time purchase (lifetime license) or an annual subscription. Today, most desktop plans operate on an annual subscription basis:
Pro Plus / Mac Plus — $1,149/year (1 user)
• Basic desktop accounting features
• Local installation, offline access
Premier Plus — $1,469/year (1 user)
• Industry-specific tools and enhanced reporting
• More users and features than Pro
Enterprise Editions — $1,873–$6,598+ per year
• Advanced desktop product for larger companies
• Scales by number of users and modules
QuickBooks Online Pricing (Cloud Subscription)
QuickBooks Online is subscription software that you can access from any device. It has four main plans with varying features and prices:
Simple Start — $38/month
• Basic accounting: income/expenses, invoicing, bank connections
• Best for freelancers or very small businesses
• Typically for 1 user only
Essentials — $75/month
• Includes Simple Start features
• Adds bill management, time tracking
• Supports up to ~3 users
Plus — $115/month
• Adds inventory tracking and project profitability
• Supports up to ~5 users
• Good for small to mid-sized business growth
Advanced — $275/month
• Most powerful plan
• Longer user list (many users), custom roles, advanced reporting
• Designed for larger teams or complex businesses
Note:- For any pricing information, always refer to the official QuickBooks pricing page, as prices vary by country, license type, and currency.
2. Xero
Xero is a modern, cloud-based accounting software that works perfectly on Mac through any web browser. Mac users do not need to install heavy desktop applications to use Xero online, which makes it fast, flexible, and easy to access from anywhere. This makes Xero an ideal accounting solution for Mac users who want powerful features with simple usability.
One of the main advantages of using Xero on Mac is its smooth performance and clean interface. The software is user-friendly, so even beginners can manage their business finances without any technical difficulties. From creating invoices to tracking expenses and managing cash flow, everything can be done in just a few clicks.
Invoicing is another strong feature of Xero. You can create professional invoices, customize them with your brand logo, and send them directly to clients. Xero also supports online payments, helping businesses get paid faster. Automatic payment reminders reduce late payments and improve cash flow.
Key Features of Xero:
• Invoicing & Billing
• Inventory Management
• Bank Reconciliation
• Expense Tracking
• Financial Reporting
• Payroll Management
• Multi-Currency Support
• Third-Party Integrations
Pricing Overview
Xero offers different subscription plans for businesses of various sizes and needs. Its pricing is based on a monthly subscription model, and all plans include unlimited users at no extra cost. Xero also usually provides a 30-day free trial so that new users can explore the platform before choosing a paid plan.
Early / Starter Plan — $20–$29/month
This entry‑level plan is ideal for very small businesses or sole traders starting with online accounting. It includes basic bookkeeping tools, the ability to send a limited number of invoices and bills, bank transaction reconciliation, and tools like receipt capture.
Growing / Standard Plan — $47/month
The Growing plan expands on the basics by removing many limits on invoices and bills, adding bulk transaction reconciliation, and providing more flexibility for everyday accounting tasks.
Established / Premium Plan — $80/month
This top tier is built for established businesses that require advanced features such as multi‑currency support, project tracking, expense claims, and in‑depth analytics. It includes all features from the lower plans plus tools for deeper business insights.
Note:- For the most accurate and latest pricing information, always check Xero's official pricing page, as prices vary by country, license type, and currency.
3. Wave (Cloud)
Wave Accounting is a free, cloud-based accounting software for Mac and other devices that helps small businesses efficiently manage bookkeeping, invoicing, and financial reporting. With its simple interface and online access, Wave is ideal for entrepreneurs who want an affordable and easy-to-use accounting solution. From invoicing to expense tracking and financial reports, Wave provides everything needed to manage business finances in a smart and simple way.
Wave also supports professional invoicing. You can customize invoices with your business logo, brand colors, and payment terms. It allows clients to make online payments using credit cards or bank transfers, helping businesses get paid faster and improve cash flow.
Since it runs online, Mac users can access it anytime without installing any software. One of the biggest advantages of Wave is its free core features. Users can create unlimited invoices and track unlimited income and expenses. Its free core tools along with optional paid services make it an excellent choice for startups and growing businesses.
Key Features of Wave:
• Professional Invoicing & Billing
• Income & Expense Tracking
• Financial Reporting
• Receipt Scanning
• Online Payments & Faster Cash Flow
• Payroll Management (Paid Feature)
Pricing Overview
Wave offers both free and paid plans, along with optional add-ons such as payroll services. Its Core Accounting Software is completely free, allowing small businesses to access features like bookkeeping, invoicing, and expense tracking without any subscription. You get unlimited invoices, expense records, and basic reports at no extra cost.
I. Starter Plan — Free
II. Pro Plan — Paid
• Around $16–$19 per month
• $170–$190 per year
Note:- For the most accurate and latest pricing information, always check Wave’s official pricing page, as prices vary by country, license type, and currency.
Conclusion
The best accounting software for Mac depends on your business size, budget, and requirements. QuickBooks for Mac, Xero, AccountEdge Pro, Wave, MoneyWorks and Moneyspire are all excellent choices with unique strengths. By choosing the right tool, you can automate financial tasks, keep your books accurate, and grow your business confidently.
FAQ's about best accounting software for mac
What is the best accounting software for Mac?
The best accounting software for Mac depends on your needs. Popular choices include QuickBooks Online, Xero, AccountEdge Pro, MoneyWorks and Moneyspire for desktop users.
Is there any accounting software made specially for macOS?
Yes, software like AccountEdge Pro and MoneyWorks are designed specifically for Mac users and work as true desktop applications.
Which is better for Mac: Desktop or Cloud accounting software?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the best choice depends on how you run your business and your tech setup. If you need mobility, teamwork, and easy maintenance, cloud accounting software is often the modern winner for Mac users. If you value offline access, control, and lower long-term costs, desktop accounting software may be the right fit.
Does accounting software work offline on Mac?
Yes, Accounting software can work offline on a Mac if you choose the right program. Desktop accounting tools like AccountEdge Pro, Manager.io, GnuCash, and older QuickBooks desktop versions let you manage your finances without an internet connection. Meanwhile, cloud-based solutions like Wave and Xero offer flexibility and remote access but do require online connectivity.
Is free accounting software available for Mac?
Yes, Several free tools — from cloud solutions like Wave and ZipBooks to offline options like GnuCash and MoneyWorks Cashbook — offer reliable, no-cost accounting features suitable for a range of businesses. Try them out to see which one fits your workflow best!