CPA License Cost in South Carolina 2026: $1,266 Fees, $69K Salary
Getting a CPA license in South Carolina costs $1,266 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.8 months.
CPA License in South Carolina — Key Numbers
$1,266
Upfront Cost
$69K
Median Salary (Licensed)
$100
Renewal (every 1 yr)
0.8 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.
CPA License Cost Breakdown — South Carolina
Exam fee
$976
Application fee
$170
Initial license fee
$120
Total upfront
$1,266
Renewal fee (every 1 yr)
$100
CE hours required per cycle
40 hours
Salary without license (South Carolina)
$48,400/yr
Salary with license (South Carolina)
$68,640/yr
5-year net ROI
$100K
Licensing body: South Carolina Board of Accountancy. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.
CPA License in South Carolina — What to Know
South Carolina CPA demand is steady across public accounting, government, and small business advisory work. The $69K median is lower than coastal markets but represents a substantial premium over non-CPA accounting roles. Many South Carolina CPAs specialize in agriculture, energy, manufacturing, or government contracting — sectors with strong presence in the state. The 150-hour requirement applies — check the South Carolina Board of Accountancy for current education and experience rules.