Earning a CPA License in Hawaii is one of the most attractive combinations of lifestyle and earning potential in the country—steady, high-paying work in paradise. Certified Public Accountants are in strong demand across Honolulu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai, supporting tourism, military contracts, healthcare, real estate, and a fast-growing film/tech sector. This article covers the real career opportunities, current salary ranges, and the clear path to getting your CPA License in Hawaii, optimized for professionals ready to live and work in the Aloha State.

Why Pursue a CPA License in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s economy grew 2.8 % in real GDP in 2024 and employs roughly 5,230 accountants and auditors. Tourism has fully rebounded, military spending remains a reliable $15 billion annually, and new film and tech incentives are drawing production and startups. The state projects 6-7 % accounting job growth through 2032, with one of the lowest CPA-per-capita ratios in the U.S.—meaning far less competition than on the mainland. A CPA License in Hawaii instantly raises your salary 10-15 % and is often required for senior finance roles at resorts, hospitals, banks, and federal contractors.

Career Opportunities for CPAs in Hawaii

A CPA License in Hawaii opens doors across the islands:

1. Public Accounting

Big Four and strong local firms in Honolulu handle audits and tax for hotels, resorts, military contractors, and film productions.

2. Hospitality & Tourism

In-house at Marriott, Hilton, Four Seasons, or Alexander & Baldwin on Maui—many offer housing allowances.

3. Healthcare

Hawaii Pacific Health, Queen’s Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente rely on licensed CPAs for complex reimbursement and compliance.

4. Government & Military

State Department of Taxation, county finance offices, and federal contractors tied to Pearl Harbor and Pacific Missile Range.

5. Real Estate & Development

Large landowners (Kamehameha Schools, A&B) and condo associations need CPAs for trust, tax, and development work.

6. Emerging Tech & Film

Netflix studios, Oceanit, and local startups fueled by Hawaii’s 20-25 % film tax credit and new tech incentives.

Salary Expectations for CPAs in Hawaii

A CPA License in Hawaii commands strong pay, with the statewide average $84,000–$92,000 annually (2025 figures). Location and industry push the range:

  • Honolulu metro: $88,000 – $115,000
  • Maui / Big Island resort accounting: $95,000 – $130,000 (housing stipends common)
  • Entry-level (Big Four or large local firm): $62,000 – $75,000
  • Mid-career / senior: $95,000 – $160,000
  • CFO roles (hospitality or large developer): $180,000 – $280,000+

Many employers sweeten offers with relocation packages, housing allowances, or remote-friendly schedules.

Requirements for a CPA License in Hawaii

The Hawaii Board of Accountancy keeps the process candidate-friendly:

  1. Education
    • Sit for the exam: Bachelor’s + 120 semester hours (24 accounting, 24 business).
    • Full license: 150 hours total OR new 2026 alternative pathway: bachelor’s + 2 years experience.
  2. CPA Exam
    Pass all four sections with 75+ within 18 months.
  3. Experience
    One year (2,000 hours) under a licensed CPA (traditional) or two years for the upcoming alternative.
  4. Ethics
    Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics exam (90 %+).
  5. Other
    No residency or citizenship requirement. Total fees ≈ $300.

Maintaining Your CPA License in Hawaii

Renew every odd-numbered year by December 31 ($210) and complete 80 CPE hours per two-year cycle (minimum 20 per year, 4 in ethics). The Hawaii Society of CPAs offers excellent live and online courses.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

With only ~2,800 active CPAs statewide (one of the lowest ratios in the nation), competition is low while demand from tourism, military, and film is high. The 2026 alternative pathway will make licensure even easier.

How to Get Started

  1. Submit transcripts to NASBA for evaluation ($90).
  2. Prep with Becker, UWorld, or Surgent.
  3. Secure experience under a Hawaii-licensed CPA.
  4. Pass the AICPA ethics exam.
  5. Apply online at cca.hawaii.gov/pvl/boards/accountancy.

Conclusion

A CPA License in Hawaii gives you the rare chance to earn mainland-level (or better) money while living in paradise. Salaries average $84,000–$92,000, growth is steady at 6-7 % through 2032, and a new flexible pathway launches in 2026. Whether you’re auditing five-star resorts on Maui, managing federal contracts in Honolulu, or going in-house at a hospital on the Big Island, this license is your ticket to work hard and live the island dream. Start your journey today and turn Aloha into your career reality!