How Much Does CPA Exam & Licensing Cost in Columbus, OH?
Columbus pricing is near the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, humid-continental climate conditions, and Columbus's insurance-education-government economy.See our methodology
CPA Exam & Licensing Pricing in Columbus, OH
Columbus is one of the more affordable markets for cpa exam & licensing, with costs running about 10% below the national average. The city's insurance-education-government economy and balanced labor market create favorable conditions for competitive pricing. Getting multiple quotes from the 905K-population metro area is straightforward.
Local climate plays a direct role in cpa exam & licensing costs here. Cold winters and hot summers mean year-round HVAC needs; freeze-thaw cycles affect driveways and foundations.
Market-specific factors matter in Columbus: state capital with large university keeps demand steady; moderate cost of living means reasonable contractor rates.
Columbus has moderate permitting requirements. Depending on the scope of your cpa exam & licensing project, you may need local permits. A licensed contractor will handle the permitting process as part of the job in most cases.
Columbus vs National Average
What Affects CPA Exam & Licensing Cost in Columbus?
Components
Exam fees (4 sections): $800-$1,000. Review course: $1,500-$3,500. Application/licensing: $150-$500. Ethics exam: $100-$200
Review courses
Becker: $2,500-$3,500. Roger: $2,000-$3,000. Surgent: $1,500-$2,500. Wiley: $1,600-$2,600
Columbus Market Conditions
state capital with large university keeps demand steady; moderate cost of living means reasonable contractor rates
Local Climate Impact
cold winters and hot summers mean year-round HVAC needs; freeze-thaw cycles affect driveways and foundations
📐 CPA Exam & Licensing in Columbus Cost Calculator
Get a personalized estimate based on your project details
Get Program Information
Compare programs, costs, and availability near you.
Top-Rated CPA Exam & Licensing Pros in Columbus, OH
4 providersAccelerate Learning Lab
✅ VERIFIEDMastery Learning Center
✅ VERIFIEDAspire Education Group
Are You a CPA Exam & Licensing Professional?
Get listed on CostWhale and reach thousands of customers searching for cpa exam & licensing in Columbus, OH.
🔍 Compare Education Programs
Find and compare programs, courses, and tutoring services near you.
* CostWhale may earn a commission. This doesn't affect our pricing data or recommendations.
Tips to Save on CPA Exam & Licensing in Columbus
- 1.Employer reimbursement covers CPA costs at many accounting firms
- 2.Used review course materials save 50-70%
- 3.Pass all sections on the first attempt to avoid $200+ re-examination fees per section
- 4.Some states have reciprocity — get licensed in the cheapest state first
📈 CPA Exam & Licensing in Columbus Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $2,676 | — |
| 2021 | $2,788 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $2,969 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $3,052 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $3,150 | +3.2% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for CPA Exam & Licensing in Columbus
Recent Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CPA?
Most candidates take 12-18 months to pass all four sections while working. You must pass all sections within an 18-month rolling window. Add 1-2 years for the 150 credit hour education requirement if not already met.
Why does cpa exam & licensing cost different in Columbus than other cities?
Columbus's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the insurance-education-government economy, humid-continental climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and moderate permitting requirements. The balanced labor market also influences competitive pricing.
CPA Exam & Licensing Cost in Nearby Cities
Related Cost Guides for Columbus
Popular Services in Columbus
💰 Get Weekly Cost-Saving Tips
Join 10,000+ smart homeowners. Unsubscribe anytime.