How to Become a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in California
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in California earn a median salary of $63,370/year, which is 28% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a automotive service technicians and mechanics takes home approximately $2,820/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a automotive service technicians and mechanics can afford in California
Becoming a automotive service technicians and mechanics in California
Meet education requirements
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many automotive service technicians and mechanics 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 automotive service technicians and mechanicss. 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 62,110 automotive service technicians and mechanics. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $77K | $37.14/hr | 3,080 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $75K | $35.86/hr | 7,620 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $71K | $34.31/hr | 920 |
| Napa | $67K | $32.34/hr | 200 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $66K | $31.81/hr | 360 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $65K | $31.22/hr | 4,470 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $64K | $30.8/hr | 570 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $64K | $30.57/hr | 7,420 |
| Vallejo | $63K | $30.5/hr | 730 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $63K | $30.2/hr | 19,620 |
| Salinas | $62K | $29.93/hr | 620 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $62K | $29.83/hr | 1,300 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $61K | $29.46/hr | 480 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $61K | $29.34/hr | 5,180 |
| Chico | $61K | $29.17/hr | 340 |
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary range in California
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a automotive service technicians and mechanics make in California?▼
The median automotive service technicians and mechanics salary in California is $63,370 per year ($30.47/hr). This is 28% above the national median of $49,670. Salaries range from $38,220 to $93,860.
What are the requirements to become a automotive service technicians and mechanics in California?▼
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a automotive service technicians and mechanics afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $63,370, a automotive service technicians and mechanics in California would take home approximately $4,232/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for automotive service technicians and mechanics in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for automotive service technicians and mechanics in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($77,260), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($74,590), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($71,360). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for automotive service technicians and mechanics?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $63,370 salary, this means roughly $2,168/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.