How to Become a Aerospace Engineers in California
Aerospace Engineers in California earn a median salary of $143,860/year, which is 7% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.6%. After taxes and rent, a aerospace engineers takes home approximately $6,885/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a aerospace engineers can afford in California
Becoming a aerospace engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Aerospace Engineers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many aerospace engineers 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 aerospace engineerss. 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 9,330 aerospace engineers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Aerospace Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $167K | $80.45/hr | 840 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $160K | $76.92/hr | 210 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $146K | $70.13/hr | 120 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $144K | $69.16/hr | 6,090 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $132K | $63.62/hr | 750 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $129K | $62.13/hr | 130 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $129K | $61.9/hr | 90 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $128K | $61.49/hr | 630 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $126K | $60.68/hr | 120 |
Aerospace Engineers salary range in California
Aerospace Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a aerospace engineers make in California?▼
The median aerospace engineers salary in California is $143,860 per year ($69.16/hr). This is 7% above the national median of $134,830. Salaries range from $102,380 to $224,660.
What are the requirements to become a aerospace engineers in California?▼
Aerospace Engineers positions in California typically require Bachelor'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 aerospace engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $143,860, a aerospace engineers in California would take home approximately $8,297/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for aerospace engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for aerospace engineers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($167,340), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($160,000), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($145,860). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for aerospace engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.6%. On a $143,860 salary, this means roughly $9,517/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.