How to Become a Acupuncturists in California
Acupuncturists in California earn a median salary of $77,640/year, which is 1% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a acupuncturists takes home approximately $3,559/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a acupuncturists can afford in California
Becoming a acupuncturists in California
Meet education requirements
Acupuncturists positions in California typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many acupuncturists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for acupuncturistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 2,330 acupuncturists. The highest concentrations are in Santa Cruz-Watsonville and Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom.
Acupuncturists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $129K | $61.99/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $107K | $51.3/hr | 210 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $97K | $46.42/hr | — |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $94K | $45.1/hr | 340 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $92K | $44.06/hr | 350 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $78K | $37.31/hr | — |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $67K | $32.41/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $62K | $29.91/hr | — |
Acupuncturists salary range in California
Acupuncturists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a acupuncturists make in California?▼
The median acupuncturists salary in California is $77,640 per year ($37.33/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $78,140. Salaries range from $43,060 to $152,300.
What are the requirements to become a acupuncturists in California?▼
Acupuncturists positions in California typically require Master's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a acupuncturists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $77,640, a acupuncturists in California would take home approximately $4,971/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for acupuncturists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for acupuncturists in California are Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($128,940), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($106,710), San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles ($96,560). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for acupuncturists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $77,640 salary, this means roughly $3,358/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.