Earning a CPA License in Utah is a strategic step toward a rewarding accounting career in a state with a booming economy and high demand for financial expertise. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Utah are essential across industries like technology, finance, and healthcare, particularly in hubs such as Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden. This article explores the career paths, salary expectations, and steps to obtain your CPA License in Utah, optimized for aspiring professionals seeking to thrive in the Beehive State.

Why Pursue a CPA License in Utah?

Utah’s economy is thriving, with nominal GDP surpassing $300 billion for the first time in 2025 and a projected 1.6% real GDP growth for the year. Ranked 1st in the 2025 Rich States, Poor States index, the state employs around 18,900 accountants and auditors, with accounting jobs anticipated to grow 33% before 2032—far exceeding the national average of 4%. A CPA License in Utah enhances credibility, unlocks senior roles, and boosts earning potential by 10-15% compared to non-certified accountants, making it vital amid a national CPA shortage and Utah’s tech-driven expansion.

Career Opportunities for CPAs in Utah

A CPA License in Utah unlocks diverse career paths across the state’s innovative sectors. Here are some key opportunities:

1. Public Accounting

CPAs in public firms provide auditing, tax preparation, and consulting services. Utah hosts Big Four firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC) in Salt Lake City, alongside regional firms like Eide Bailly, serving clients from startups to tech giants like Adobe.

2. Corporate Accounting

Many CPAs work in-house for Utah-based companies, such as Qualtrics or Overstock, managing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. These roles are prevalent in technology, finance, and healthcare.

3. Forensic Accounting

Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud, often collaborating with law firms or government agencies. This field is expanding in Utah due to the state’s booming fintech and e-commerce sectors.

4. Government and Nonprofit Roles

CPAs in Utah’s government sector, such as the State Tax Commission, 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 Utah, you can provide strategic financial advice, specializing in tax planning, risk management, or business consulting. These roles are lucrative in Provo’s Silicon Slopes tech corridor.

6. Academia

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

Salary Expectations for CPAs in Utah

A CPA License in Utah significantly boosts earning potential. The average CPA salary in Utah is approximately $85,851 per year, with variations in Salt Lake City ranging from $77,419 to $89,411. Here’s a breakdown by experience and role:

  • 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 can earn $90,000 to $120,000, with controllers 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 Salt Lake City.

Salaries are higher in metropolitan areas like Salt Lake City due to demand and cost of living. Specializations like forensic accounting can further increase earnings.

Requirements for a CPA License in Utah

To earn a CPA License in Utah, candidates must meet the requirements set by the Utah Board of Accountancy. New legislation effective in 2025 provides alternative pathways to address the CPA shortage. These include:

  1. Education:
    • To sit for the CPA Exam: Bachelor’s degree with 120 semester hours, including 24 hours in accounting and 24 in business courses.
    • For licensure (traditional): 150 semester hours total.
    • Alternative Pathway (2025): Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of work experience + passing the CPA Exam.
  2. 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.
  3. Work Experience: One year (2,000 hours) under the supervision of a licensed CPA (traditional pathway).
  4. Ethics Exam: Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam with a score of 90% or higher.
  5. Additional Requirements: Good moral character; no U.S. citizenship or state residency required. Submit transcripts and experience verification.

Maintaining Your CPA License in Utah

To maintain a CPA License in Utah, CPAs must renew every two years and complete 80 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) per period, including 4 hours in ethics. The Utah Association of CPAs (UACPA) offers CPE resources and networking opportunities.

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

Utah’s accounting job market is flourishing, with 33% projected growth before 2032 and Utah leading the nation in GDP growth through three quarters of 2025. The new 2025 licensure pathway reduces barriers, making the CPA License in Utah more accessible while tech and biotech booms increase demand for skilled professionals.

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.
  4. Pass the Ethics Exam: Complete the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam.
  5. Apply for Licensure: Submit a license application through the Utah Board of Accountancy after meeting all requirements.

For detailed guidance, visit dopl.utah.gov/accountancy or contact NASBA at (866) 350-0017.

Conclusion

A CPA License in Utah is your gateway to diverse, high-paying career opportunities in the Beehive State’s innovative economy. With competitive salaries averaging $85,851, 33% job growth before 2032, and flexible pathways effective in 2025, now is the ideal time to pursue licensure amid a national shortage. From auditing in Salt Lake City’s fintech scene to consulting for Provo’s tech startups, this credential drives innovation and financial success. Start your journey today to unlock the full potential of a CPA License in Utah and build a distinguished career in accounting!