Earning a CPA License in Missouri is a strategic step toward a rewarding accounting career in a state with a diverse economy and growing industries. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Missouri are in high demand, particularly in hubs like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield, across sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. This article explores the career paths, salary expectations, and steps to obtain your CPA License in Missouri, optimized for aspiring accountants aiming to excel in the Show-Me State.

Why Pursue a CPA License in Missouri?

Missouri’s economy, with a 2024 GDP of approximately $455 billion, ranks 22nd nationally and is driven by industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. A CPA License in Missouri enhances professional credibility, unlocks senior-level roles, and boosts earning potential by 10-15% compared to non-certified accountants. With over 22,480 accountants and auditors employed and a projected 6.29% job growth from 2020 to 2030—creating nearly 2,900 annual openings—Missouri offers a robust job market for CPAs, amplified by a national CPA shortage due to retirements.

Career Opportunities for CPAs in Missouri

A CPA License in Missouri 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. Missouri hosts Big Four firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC) in St. Louis and Kansas City, alongside regional firms like BKD and CliftonLarsonAllen, serving clients from startups to corporations like Emerson Electric.

2. Corporate Accounting

CPAs work in-house for Missouri-based companies, such as Centene or Express Scripts, managing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. These roles are prevalent in manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services industries.

3. Forensic Accounting

Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud, often collaborating with law firms or government agencies. In Missouri, these professionals earn competitive salaries due to the state’s diverse business landscape.

4. Government and Nonprofit Roles

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

5. Financial Advisory and Consulting

With a CPA License in Missouri, you can specialize in tax planning, risk management, or business consulting, roles in high demand in Kansas City’s financial district, where controllers earn median salaries of $127,000.

6. Academia

CPA-licensed educators are sought after at universities like the University of Missouri due to faculty retirements and growing student interest in accounting.

Salary Expectations for CPAs in Missouri

A CPA License in Missouri significantly boosts earning potential. The average CPA salary in Missouri is approximately $93,816 per year, with top earners exceeding $110,920. Here’s a breakdown by role and experience:

  • Entry-Level CPAs: Starting salaries range from $55,000 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 $70,000–$90,000, particularly in auditing or tax roles.
  • Senior-Level CPAs: Senior accountants or controllers with 6+ years of experience earn $90,000–$127,000, with controllers averaging $127,030–$165,180.
  • Executive Roles: Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), often CPAs, earn median salaries of $157,430, with top earners exceeding $208,000 in metro areas like Kansas City.

Salaries are higher in metropolitan areas like St. Louis ($92,432 average) and Kansas City ($113,160 for top earners), where demand and cost of living are greater. Specializations like forensic accounting or financial technology can further boost earnings. Missouri’s cost of living index (88.7) is below the national average, enhancing purchasing power.

Requirements for a CPA License in Missouri

To earn a CPA License in Missouri, candidates must meet the requirements set by the Missouri State Board of Accountancy. The requirements include:

  1. Education:
    • To sit for the CPA Exam: A bachelor’s degree with 120 semester hours, including 24 hours in accounting (covering financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting) and 24 hours in business courses (e.g., finance, economics).
    • For licensure: 150 semester hours total, including an additional 6 hours in accounting and 6 hours in business. Up to 9 hours may come from independent study or internships.
    • Foreign-educated candidates must have credentials evaluated by NASBA International Evaluation Services.
  2. CPA Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam (three Core sections: Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Taxation and Regulation; plus one Discipline: Business Analysis and Reporting, Information Systems and Controls, or Tax Compliance and Planning) with a minimum score of 75 within 30 months (extended from 18 months effective January 1, 2024). Exam fees total $1,170.56 ($120 application, $262.64 per section).
  3. Work Experience: Complete one year (2,000 hours) of qualifying experience in public accounting, industry, government, or academia, verified by a licensed CPA. For auditors, 4,000 hours (two years) are required, including 2,000 hours in attest services. Part-time work is acceptable if it totals 2,000 hours within 1-3 years.
  4. Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam with a score of 90% or higher.
  5. Additional Requirements: Be at least 21 years old, a Missouri resident or have a place of business in the state, and of good moral character. No U.S. citizenship is required. Submit transcripts, experience verification, and a $90 initial license fee.

Maintaining Your CPA License in Missouri

To maintain a CPA License in Missouri, CPAs must renew biennially by September 30 of odd-numbered years for an $80 fee and complete 120 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every three years (40 hours annually), including 2 hours in ethics. A grace period from January 1 to March 1 allows completion of prior-year shortages. The Missouri Society of CPAs (MOCPA) offers CPE resources and networking opportunities.

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

Missouri’s accounting job market is projected to grow by 6.29% through 2030, with 2,900 annual openings due to retirements and economic expansion in manufacturing and healthcare. The CPA License in Missouri is accessible with no citizenship requirement and the ability to sit for the exam with 120 credit hours. Advancements in data analytics and AI are increasing demand for CPAs with specialized skills, making 2025 an ideal time to pursue licensure.

How to Get Started

  1. Verify Eligibility: Submit an education evaluation application ($90 fee) 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 in public accounting, industry, government, or academia.
  4. Pass the Ethics Exam: Complete the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam and submit results to the Missouri Board.
  5. Apply for Licensure: Submit a license application ($90 fee) with all required documentation to the Missouri Board via NASBA.

For detailed guidance, visit www.pr.mo.gov/accountancy or contact NASBA at (866) 350-0017.

Conclusion

A CPA License in Missouri is a gateway to diverse, high-paying career opportunities in a state with a thriving economic landscape. With competitive salaries, a growing job market, and accessible licensure requirements, now is the ideal time to pursue your CPA license. Start your journey today to unlock the full potential of a CPA License in Missouri and build a rewarding career in accounting!