Earning a CPA License in Tennessee is a strategic move for accountants seeking to advance their careers in a state with a rapidly growing economy and diverse industries. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Tennessee are in high demand, particularly in thriving hubs like Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga, across sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment. This article explores the career paths, salary expectations, and steps to obtain your CPA License in Tennessee, optimized for those aiming to excel in the accounting profession.

Why Pursue a CPA License in Tennessee?

Tennessee’s economy is booming, with real GDP projected to grow by 2.5% in 2025, reaching approximately $564 billion in Q1 2025. The state ranks first in GDP growth nationally and hosts major industries like healthcare, automotive, and logistics, with companies such as FedEx, HCA Healthcare, and Nissan. A CPA License in Tennessee enhances professional credibility, opens doors to senior roles, and can increase earning potential by 10-15% compared to non-certified accountants. With over 20,000 accountants and auditors employed and a projected 6% job growth through 2030—creating thousands of annual openings—Tennessee’s job market for CPAs is strong, fueled by economic expansion and a national CPA shortage.

Career Opportunities for CPAs in Tennessee

A CPA License in Tennessee unlocks a wide range of 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. Tennessee hosts Big Four firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC) in Nashville and Memphis, alongside regional firms like LBMC and Crowe, serving clients from startups to global corporations.

2. Corporate Accounting

CPAs work in-house for Tennessee-based companies, such as AutoZone or International Paper, managing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. These roles are prevalent in healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics industries.

3. Forensic Accounting

Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud, often collaborating with law firms or government agencies. This field is growing in Tennessee due to the state’s expanding business environment.

4. Government and Nonprofit Roles

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

5. Financial Advisory and Consulting

With a CPA License in Tennessee, you can provide strategic financial advice, specializing in tax planning, risk management, or business consulting. These roles are lucrative in Nashville’s vibrant economy.

6. Academia

CPA-licensed educators are in demand at universities like Vanderbilt and the University of Tennessee due to faculty retirements and growing student interest in accounting.

Salary Expectations for CPAs in Tennessee

A CPA License in Tennessee significantly boosts earning potential. According to recent data, the average CPA salary in Tennessee is approximately $83,483–$84,987 per year, with top earners exceeding $110,000. Here’s a breakdown by experience and role:

  • Entry-Level CPAs: Starting salaries range from $46,500 to $70,000, 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 $63,750–$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 $125,000, with roles like financial controller commanding higher salaries.
  • Executive Roles: Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), often CPAs, earn median salaries of $150,000 or more, with top earners exceeding $200,000 in metro areas like Nashville.

Salaries vary by location, with higher pay in Nashville ($65,000 median for accountants) and Memphis due to demand and cost of living. Specializations like forensic accounting or technology can yield even higher earnings.

Requirements for a CPA License in Tennessee

To earn a CPA License in Tennessee, candidates must meet the requirements set by the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy. New legislation effective January 1, 2026, introduces flexible pathways to address the CPA shortage. The requirements include:

  1. Education:
    • Traditional Pathway: Bachelor’s degree with 150 semester hours, including 30 hours in accounting (24 upper-level) and 24 hours in business courses.
    • Alternative Pathway (Effective Jan. 1, 2026): Bachelor’s degree with 120 semester hours, plus two years of accounting experience.
    • To sit for the CPA Exam, candidates need 120 semester hours from an accredited institution.
  2. CPA Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam (Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Regulation, and one Discipline Exam: BAR, ISC, or TCP) with a minimum score of 75 within 30 months.
  3. Work Experience:
    • Traditional Pathway: One year (2,000 hours) of qualifying experience under a licensed CPA.
    • Alternative Pathway: Two years of experience with a bachelor’s degree.
  4. Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam with a score of 90 or higher.
  5. Additional Requirements: Submit transcripts, experience verification, and a Social Security number. No U.S. citizenship or residency is required, making it accessible for diverse candidates.

Maintaining Your CPA License in Tennessee

To maintain a CPA License in Tennessee, CPAs must renew annually by December 31 for a $110 fee and complete 80 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every two years, including 40 hours annually, 4 hours in ethics, and 20 hours in accounting/auditing for attest practitioners. The Tennessee Society of CPAs (TSCPA) offers CPE resources and networking opportunities.

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

Tennessee’s accounting job market is expanding, with over 800 accountant jobs available as of August 2025 and steady growth projected through 2030. The new licensure pathway effective January 1, 2026, reduces barriers by allowing a bachelor’s degree plus two years of experience, making the CPA License in Tennessee more accessible. With the state leading in GDP growth and advancements in data analytics, demand for skilled CPAs is rising.

How to Get Started

  1. Verify Eligibility: Submit an education evaluation application to NASBA to confirm exam eligibility.
  2. Prepare for the CPA Exam: Use review courses from providers like Becker or UWorld to prepare for the four-part exam.
  3. Gain Experience: Secure a qualifying position under a licensed CPA.
  4. Pass the Ethics Exam: Complete the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam.
  5. Apply for Licensure: Submit a license application to the Tennessee Board via NASBA.

For detailed guidance, visit www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/accountancy.html or contact NASBA at (866) 350-0017.

Conclusion

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