How to Become a Architectural and Civil Drafters in California
Architectural and Civil Drafters in California earn a median salary of $74,390/year, which is 16% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a architectural and civil drafters takes home approximately $3,393/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a architectural and civil drafters can afford in California
Becoming a architectural and civil drafters in California
Meet education requirements
Architectural and Civil Drafters 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 architectural and civil drafters 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 architectural and civil drafterss. 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 12,950 architectural and civil drafters. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Architectural and Civil Drafters salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $81K | $38.79/hr | 730 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $77K | $37.15/hr | 2,470 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $77K | $36.92/hr | 210 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $77K | $36.8/hr | 1,420 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $76K | $36.43/hr | 270 |
| Vallejo | $76K | $36.34/hr | 70 |
| Napa | $76K | $36.31/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $75K | $35.87/hr | 4,050 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $73K | $35.21/hr | 900 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $70K | $33.61/hr | 140 |
| Chico | $69K | $33/hr | 40 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $69K | $33/hr | 150 |
| Visalia | $67K | $32.04/hr | 90 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $65K | $31.18/hr | 830 |
| Salinas | $65K | $31.1/hr | 80 |
Architectural and Civil Drafters salary range in California
Architectural and Civil Drafters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a architectural and civil drafters make in California?▼
The median architectural and civil drafters salary in California is $74,390 per year ($35.76/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $64,280. Salaries range from $51,310 to $113,470.
What are the requirements to become a architectural and civil drafters in California?▼
Architectural and Civil Drafters 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 architectural and civil drafters afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $74,390, a architectural and civil drafters in California would take home approximately $4,805/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for architectural and civil drafters in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for architectural and civil drafters in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($80,690), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($77,270), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($76,790). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for architectural and civil drafters?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $74,390 salary, this means roughly $3,056/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.