How to Become a Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers in California
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers in California earn a median salary of $125,700/year, which is 18% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.2%. After taxes and rent, a bioengineers and biomedical engineers takes home approximately $5,991/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a bioengineers and biomedical engineers can afford in California
Becoming a bioengineers and biomedical engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Bioengineers and Biomedical 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 bioengineers and biomedical 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 bioengineers and biomedical 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 2,900 bioengineers and biomedical engineers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $139K | $67.06/hr | 270 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $137K | $65.73/hr | 620 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $128K | $61.37/hr | 40 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $125K | $60.28/hr | 30 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $123K | $58.9/hr | 120 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $117K | $56.15/hr | 510 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $115K | $55.3/hr | 940 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $108K | $51.98/hr | 80 |
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers salary range in California
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bioengineers and biomedical engineers make in California?▼
The median bioengineers and biomedical engineers salary in California is $125,700 per year ($60.43/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $106,950. Salaries range from $83,990 to $173,630.
What are the requirements to become a bioengineers and biomedical engineers in California?▼
Bioengineers and Biomedical 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 bioengineers and biomedical engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $125,700, a bioengineers and biomedical engineers in California would take home approximately $7,403/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bioengineers and biomedical engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bioengineers and biomedical engineers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($139,490), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($136,720), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($127,640). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for bioengineers and biomedical engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.2%. On a $125,700 salary, this means roughly $7,828/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.