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Arts & Media · California

How to Become a Choreographers in California

Choreographers in California earn a median salary of $75,000/year, which is 36% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a choreographers takes home approximately $3,294/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$75K
Median salary in California
+36%
vs. national average
4.2%
State income tax
410
Employed in California

What a choreographers can afford in California

Gross annual salary$75,000
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.2% state tax)$4,836/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,542/mo
Rent as % of take-home31.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$75,000/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,294/mo

Becoming a choreographers in California

1

Meet education requirements

Choreographers 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 choreographers 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 choreographerss. 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 410 choreographers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom.

Choreographers salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$99K$47.8/hr100
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$88K$42.24/hr60
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$75K$36.06/hr100
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$50K$23.83/hr50

Choreographers salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$43K
25th percentile
$51K
Median (50th)
$75K
75th percentile
$102K
90th percentile (senior)
$139K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a choreographers make in California?

The median choreographers salary in California is $75,000 per year ($36.06/hr). This is 36% above the national median of $55,310. Salaries range from $42,990 to $138,630.

What are the requirements to become a choreographers in California?

Choreographers 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 choreographers afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $75,000, a choreographers in California would take home approximately $4,836/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,542/month, that's 31.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for choreographers in California?

The highest paying metro areas for choreographers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($99,430), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($87,850), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($75,000). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for choreographers?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $75,000 salary, this means roughly $3,113/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.