Earning a CPA License in Vermont is a smart move for accountants who want a balanced career with competitive pay and the quality of life that comes with living in one of the most scenic states in the country. CPAs in Vermont are valued across small-to-mid-sized businesses, healthcare, education, tourism, and manufacturing in cities like Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland, and Brattleboro. This article covers the real job landscape, salary ranges, and the straightforward steps to get your CPA License in Vermont, optimized for anyone ready to build a future in the Green Mountain State.

Why Pursue a CPA License in Vermont?

Vermont’s economy is stable and diversified, with strengths in healthcare (UVA Health, UVM Medical Center), higher education (UVM, Middlebury, Norwich), tourism, maple/agriculture, and advanced manufacturing. The state employs about 2,520 accountants and auditors—one of the smaller pools nationally—which means less competition and consistent demand. Job growth is projected at 5–7% through 2032, creating steady openings from retirements and modest expansion. A CPA License in Vermont typically boosts salary by 10–15% over non-certified accountants and is often required for senior finance positions at nonprofits, hospitals, and family-owned manufacturers.

Career Opportunities for CPAs in Vermont

A CPA License in Vermont opens doors to meaningful work across the state’s tight-knit business community:

1. Public Accounting

Regional and mid-tier firms in Burlington and Montpelier handle audits and tax for tourism operators, farms, craft breweries, and small manufacturers.

2. Corporate & Nonprofit Accounting

In-house roles at UVM Medical Center, Vermont Teddy Bear, King Arthur Baking, or large nonprofits—steady work with excellent work-life balance.

3. Government and Higher Education

Positions with the Vermont Department of Finance and Management, Agency of Administration, or colleges/universities managing budgets and grants.

4. Forensic & Advisory

Fraud work for state agencies or consulting for family businesses and high-net-worth clients in the Lake Champlain and Mad River Valley areas.

5. Tourism & Food & Beverage

Tax and compliance support for ski resorts, craft distilleries, and agritourism operations that fuel Vermont’s brand.

6. Academia

Teaching opportunities at UVM, Champlain College, or Norwich University as veteran faculty retire.

Salary Expectations for CPAs in Vermont

A CPA License in Vermont delivers respectable earning power, with statewide averages ranging from $78,000 to $92,000 annually (2025 data). Location and industry create variation:

  • Burlington / Chittenden County: $82,000 – $105,000
  • Montpelier / central Vermont: $75,000 – $95,000
  • Entry-level (strong regional firm): $58,000 – $72,000
  • Mid-career / senior: $85,000 – $115,000
  • Controllers / CFOs (hospital or large nonprofit): $130,000 – $170,000+

Vermont’s cost of living is higher than some rural states but still reasonable outside Chittenden County, and many employers offer good benefits and remote-hybrid options.

Requirements for a CPA License in Vermont

The Vermont Board of Public Accountancy maintains a clear, candidate-friendly process:

  1. Education
    • Sit for the exam: Bachelor’s + 120 semester hours.
    • Full license: 150 semester hours total (accounting + business coursework).
  2. CPA Exam
    Pass all four sections with 75+ within 18 months.
  3. Experience
    One year (2,000 hours) under a licensed CPA.
  4. Ethics
    Pass the AICPA Professional Ethics exam (90%+).
  5. Other
    No residency or citizenship requirement. Applications through NASBA.

Maintaining Your CPA License in Vermont

Renew every two years (odd years) with 80 CPE hours per cycle (minimum 20 per year, 4 in ethics). The Vermont Society of CPAs offers convenient live and online courses.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

With only ~1,200–1,300 active CPAs statewide (one of the lowest ratios in the country), competition is low while demand remains steady from healthcare, education, and tourism. The board’s rules are straightforward, and the upcoming national CPA Evolution changes keep the process modern and accessible.

How to Get Started

  1. Submit transcripts to NASBA for evaluation ($90 fee).
  2. Prep with Becker, UWorld, or Surgent.
  3. Secure supervised experience.
  4. Pass the AICPA ethics exam.
  5. Apply through the Vermont Board at sos.vermont.gov/accountancy/

Conclusion

A CPA License in Vermont is your gateway to a respected, well-paid career in a state that prioritizes work-life balance and natural beauty. Salaries average $78,000–$92,000, job growth is reliable at 5–7% through 2032, and the path to licensure is clear and achievable. Whether auditing craft breweries in Burlington, managing hospital finances in Rutland, or advising family farms in the Northeast Kingdom, this credential delivers stability, community impact, and real earning power. Start your journey today and claim your place in Vermont’s accounting community!