Earning a CPA License in Ohio is a strategic move for accountants seeking to advance their careers in a state with a vibrant economy and diverse opportunities. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Ohio are in high demand across industries like manufacturing, finance, and healthcare, particularly in cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. This article explores the career paths, salary expectations, and steps to obtain your CPA License in Ohio, optimized for those aiming to excel in the accounting profession.

Why Pursue a CPA License in Ohio?

Ohio’s economy, with a 2024 GDP of approximately $750 billion, supports major industries such as manufacturing, financial services, and healthcare, all of which rely on skilled CPAs. A CPA License in Ohio enhances professional credibility, unlocks senior-level roles, and can boost earning potential by 10-15% compared to non-certified accountants. With over 47,240 accountants and auditors employed in the state, Ohio offers a robust job market, amplified by a national CPA shortage driven by retirements and growing demand.

Career Opportunities

A CPA License in Ohio opens doors to diverse career paths across multiple sectors. Here are some key opportunities:

1. Public Accounting

CPAs in public accounting firms provide auditing, tax preparation, and consulting services. Ohio hosts Big Four firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC) in cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati, as well as regional firms like CPA Credits partner Cohen & Co, and Jones, Cochenour & Co., serving clients from startups to global corporations.

2. Corporate Accounting

CPAs work in-house for Ohio-based companies, such as Procter & Gamble or Cardinal Health, managing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. These roles are prevalent in industries like manufacturing, financial technology, and healthcare.

3. Forensic Accounting

Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud, often collaborating with law firms or government agencies. This specialized field is growing in Ohio, with midpoint salaries around $80,000–$120,000.

4. Government and Nonprofit Roles

CPAs in Ohio’s government sector, such as the Department of Taxation, or nonprofit organizations manage public funds and ensure compliance, offering stability and mission-driven work.

5. Financial Advisory and Consulting

With a CPA License in Ohio, you can provide strategic financial advice, specializing in tax planning, risk management, or business consulting. These roles are lucrative in metro areas like Columbus, where controllers earn midpoint salaries of $122,400.

6. Academia

CPA-licensed educators are in demand at Ohio’s universities, such as Ohio State University, due to faculty retirements and growing student interest in accounting.

Salary Expectations

A CPA License in Ohio significantly enhances earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average CPA salary in Ohio is approximately $84,000–$85,000 per year, with top earners exceeding $110,970. Here’s a breakdown by experience and role:

  • Entry-Level CPAs: Starting salaries range from $60,000 to $70,000 annually, with Big Four firms offering higher pay due to complex client portfolios.
  • Mid-Level CPAs (3-5 Years): CPAs with a few years of experience earn between $70,000 and $90,000, particularly in auditing or tax roles.
  • Senior-Level CPAs: Senior accountants or managers with 6+ years of experience can earn $90,000 to $120,000, with roles like financial controller commanding higher salaries.
  • Executive Roles: Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), often CPAs, earn median salaries of $162,000 in Cleveland, with top earners reaching $480,000 before bonuses.

Salaries are higher in metropolitan areas like Columbus ($77,330 average) and Akron ($75,740 average), where demand and cost of living are greater. Specializations like financial technology or forensic accounting can further boost earnings.

Requirements for a CPA License

To earn a CPA License in Ohio, candidates must meet the requirements set by the Accountancy Board of Ohio. Starting January 1, 2026, Ohio offers two flexible pathways to licensure, addressing the CPA shortage while maintaining high standards:

  • Education:
    • Pathway 1: Bachelor’s degree with 120 semester hours, including 24 hours in accounting (covering financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and cost/managerial accounting) and 24 hours in business courses (e.g., finance, economics, marketing), plus two years of professional experience.
    • Pathway 2: Master’s degree with an accounting concentration, including the same coursework requirements, plus one year of professional experience.
    • To sit for the CPA Exam, candidates need 120 semester hours; 150 hours are required for licensure under the traditional pathway, which remains an option.
  • CPA Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam (Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Regulation, and one Discipline Exam) with a minimum score of 75 within 18 months.
  • Work Experience: Complete one year (2,000 hours) with a master’s degree or two years with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, industry, government, or academia, verified by a licensed CPA.
  • Ethics Course: Complete a Board-approved Professional Standards and Responsibilities (PSR) course (three credits) emphasizing Ohio accountancy law, costing under $50.
  • Background Check: Pass a criminal background check, including fingerprinting, with results sent to the Board.

Ohio requires residency or a place of business in the state for licensure but not for the exam, and U.S. citizenship is not required.

Maintaining Your CPA License

To maintain a CPA License in Ohio, CPAs must renew their license triennially by December 31 for a $100 fee and complete 120 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every three years, with at least 20 hours annually. New licensees need 40 hours in the initial two-year period. CPE must meet Ohio Administrative Code standards, and the Ohio Society of CPAs (OSCPA) offers resources to stay compliant.

Why Now Is the Time to Earn Your CPA License in Ohio

Ohio’s accounting job market is projected to see 4,500 annual openings through 2028, driven by retirements and economic growth in urban and rural areas.

System: growth in rural areas. The new licensure pathways, effective January 1, 2026, make the CPA License in Ohio more accessible by reducing the education barrier to 120 credit hours for candidates with two years of experience, addressing the CPA shortage while maintaining rigorous standards. Additionally, Ohio’s vibrant business environment and integration of technologies like data analytics and AI increase demand for CPAs with advanced skills, making 2025 an ideal time to pursue licensure.

How to Get Started

  • Verify Eligibility: Submit an education evaluation application ($90 fee) to NASBA to confirm exam eligibility.
  • Prepare for the CPA Exam: Use review courses from providers like Becker or UWorld to prepare for the four-part exam.
  • Gain Experience: Secure a qualifying position under a licensed CPA to meet the experience requirement.
  • Complete the PSR Course: Take the Ohio-specific Professional Standards and Responsibilities course.
  • Apply for Licensure: Submit a license application ($100 fee) through NASBA after meeting all requirements, including a background check.

For detailed guidance, visit www.acc.ohio.gov or contact NASBA at (800) CPA-EXAM.

Conclusion

A CPA License in Ohio is a gateway to diverse, high-paying career opportunities in a state with a strong economic landscape. With competitive salaries, a growing job market, and new, flexible licensure pathways effective January 1, 2026, now is the perfect time to pursue your CPA license. Start your journey today to unlock the full potential of a CPA License in Ohio and build a rewarding career in accounting.