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Engineering · California

How to Become a Architects, Except Landscape and Naval in California

Architects, Except Landscape and Navals in California earn a median salary of $105,840/year, which is 9% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.7%. After taxes and rent, a architects, except landscape and naval takes home approximately $4,993/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$106K
Median salary in California
+9%
vs. national average
5.7%
State income tax
13,880
Employed in California

What a architects, except landscape and naval can afford in California

Gross annual salary$105,840
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.7% state tax)$6,405/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home22% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$105,840/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$4,993/mo

Becoming a architects, except landscape and naval in California

1

Meet education requirements

Architects, Except Landscape and Naval positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many architects, except landscape and naval 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.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for architects, except landscape and navals. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 13,880 architects, except landscape and navals. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.

Architects, Except Landscape and Naval salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$134K$64.52/hr560
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$126K$60.55/hr3,430
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$119K$57/hr620
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$118K$56.93/hr1,450
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara$105K$50.69/hr220
Bakersfield-Delano$105K$50.57/hr110
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$104K$49.77/hr400
Stockton-Lodi$103K$49.49/hr70
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$102K$49.13/hr5,820
Visalia$102K$48.98/hr40
Santa Rosa-Petaluma$101K$48.63/hr160
Fresno$101K$48.33/hr130
Modesto$100K$48.17/hr50
Salinas$99K$47.4/hr60
Santa Cruz-Watsonville$98K$47.25/hr50

Architects, Except Landscape and Naval salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$66K
25th percentile
$82K
Median (50th)
$106K
75th percentile
$140K
90th percentile (senior)
$181K
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Architects, Except Landscape and Naval careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a architects, except landscape and naval make in California?

The median architects, except landscape and naval salary in California is $105,840 per year ($50.88/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $96,690. Salaries range from $65,660 to $181,110.

What are the requirements to become a architects, except landscape and naval in California?

Architects, Except Landscape and Naval 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 architects, except landscape and naval afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $105,840, a architects, except landscape and naval in California would take home approximately $6,405/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for architects, except landscape and navals in California?

The highest paying metro areas for architects, except landscape and navals in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($134,200), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($125,950), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($118,560). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for architects, except landscape and navals?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.7%. On a $105,840 salary, this means roughly $5,981/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.