Accountants in Gainesville, FL — 137 Top-Rated Firms (2026)
Our directory lists 137 accounting firms in Gainesville, Florida — 69 CPA firms, 50 tax preparers, 10 bookkeepers, and 8 financial planners. 65 hold a Google rating of 4.5★ or higher, and the citywide average is 4.66★ across 80 rated firms. Compare them below by rating, review volume, and verification, or narrow to a specific service.
The highest-rated firm in Gainesville is Carolyn Goddard CPA (5.0★, 95 reviews). 65 of 80 rated firms hold a 4.5★ or higher Google rating.
Top accounting firms in Gainesville
| # | Firm | Service | Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carolyn Goddard CPA✓ | CPA Firm | ★ 5.0 | 95 |
| 2 | Accounting Personalized, Inc✓ | CPA Firm | ★ 5.0 | 37 |
| 3 | ELQ✓ | Payroll & Tax | ★ 5.0 | 29 |
| 4 | TurboTax - Duckpond, Gainesville✓ | Tax Preparation | ★ 5.0 | 22 |
| 5 | Jes Odom - Farm Bureau Insurance✓ | Financial Planning | ★ 5.0 | 18 |
How to choose an accountant in Gainesville
- ✓Verify credentials — a CPA holds a state Board of Accountancy license; a tax preparer should have a valid IRS PTIN and, ideally, an EA (Enrolled Agent) designation.
- ✓Match the specialty to your needs — small-business tax, S-corp/LLC filings, bookkeeping, or personal returns are different skill sets.
- ✓Confirm they e-file and use current software, and ask how they handle IRS notices or audits.
- ✓Get the fee structure in writing — hourly, flat per-return, or monthly retainer — before engaging.
- ✓Ask for an engagement letter defining scope, responsibilities, and deadlines.
What accountants cost
Typical national ranges: individual tax return $150–$450, monthly bookkeeping $200–$700, business return $500–$2,500+.
Cost guidance is a national reference range, not a quote — actual fees depend on return complexity, entity type, and the firm. Always request a written estimate.
Frequently asked questions
How many accountants are in Gainesville?+
Our directory currently lists 137 accounting firms in Gainesville, Florida, compiled from public sources, 65 of which hold a 4.5★+ Google rating.
How much does an accountant cost in Gainesville?+
Fees vary by complexity and firm. As a national reference, an individual tax return typically runs $150–$450, monthly bookkeeping $200–$700, and a business return $500–$2,500+. Ask each firm for a written fee estimate.
Do I need a CPA or a bookkeeper?+
A bookkeeper records day-to-day transactions and reconciles accounts; a CPA is a state-licensed accountant who can also handle complex tax planning, audits, and represent you before the IRS. Many small businesses use a bookkeeper year-round and a CPA at tax time.
Are the ratings on this page real?+
Yes — ratings and review counts are aggregate figures from Google, attributed to Google, with a link to the firm's Google reviews. accounting8 does not host or write reviews.