This paper investigates the associations between audit pricing and
multidimensional characteristics of local governments by using a sample of
Greek municipalities. The Greek institutional setting is interesting because it
is politically pluralistic. Moreover, independent auditors appointed through a bid
process exclusively perform the audits. Our results suggest a considerable variation
on audit fees which is mainly driven by politically related factors indicating the
importance of relevant theoretical anticipations in audit pricing in the public sector.
Agency costs appear strong enough to explain audit pricing. We also confirm prior
findings on the significance of audit complexity and size. Results also suggest that
audit fees are reduced when an internal team dedicated to accrual accounting is
appointed. Therefore, our conclusions offer practical implications for policy setters
and regulators in the public sector in relation to audit quality.