How to Become a Civil Engineers in California
Civil Engineers in California earn a median salary of $118,450/year, which is 19% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.0%. After taxes and rent, a civil engineers takes home approximately $5,635/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a civil engineers can afford in California
Becoming a civil engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Civil 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 civil 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 civil 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 54,640 civil engineers. The highest concentrations are in Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Civil Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $130K | $62.65/hr | 5,190 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $129K | $62.14/hr | 3,180 |
| Redding | $127K | $61.12/hr | 330 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $127K | $60.85/hr | 9,920 |
| Napa | $123K | $59.05/hr | 160 |
| Yuba City | $118K | $56.61/hr | 410 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $116K | $55.98/hr | 190 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $116K | $55.76/hr | 460 |
| Vallejo | $114K | $54.57/hr | 370 |
| Salinas | $113K | $54.09/hr | 250 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $111K | $53.33/hr | 680 |
| Fresno | $111K | $53.33/hr | 1,240 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $109K | $52.52/hr | 3,620 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $108K | $51.93/hr | 610 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $106K | $51.17/hr | 550 |
Civil Engineers salary range in California
Civil Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a civil engineers make in California?▼
The median civil engineers salary in California is $118,450 per year ($56.95/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $99,590. Salaries range from $77,620 to $171,760.
What are the requirements to become a civil engineers in California?▼
Civil 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 civil engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $118,450, a civil engineers in California would take home approximately $7,047/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for civil engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for civil engineers in California are Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($130,310), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($129,260), Redding ($127,130). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for civil engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.0%. On a $118,450 salary, this means roughly $7,153/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.