The income can provide an upper middle class lifestyle fairly easily. Likely won't be "wealthy" per say, although you could be. But wealth on that scale will likely be the result of breaking the typical accountant mold (opening a business with the knowledge for example). But playing the role of an accountant, or a CPA will start at 45-50k, and go up to six figures after several years.

I believe that an airline pilot in his prime (SWA capt or the like) can probably bring down more money than a CPA. However, I do believe that over the lifespan of the profession, an accountant will come out ahead. This is strictly financial though and says nothing for love for the job, etc.