How to Become a Commercial Pilots in California
Commercial Pilots in California earn a median salary of $122,100/year, which is 0% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.1%. After taxes and rent, a commercial pilots takes home approximately $5,814/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a commercial pilots can afford in California
Becoming a commercial pilots in California
Meet education requirements
Commercial Pilots positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many commercial pilots 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 commercial pilotss. 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 5,530 commercial pilots. The highest concentrations are in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Commercial Pilots salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $177K | $/hr | 2,110 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $170K | $/hr | 530 |
| Chico | $112K | $/hr | 40 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $112K | $/hr | 40 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $108K | $/hr | 170 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $107K | $/hr | 70 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $105K | $/hr | 200 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $103K | $/hr | 260 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $103K | $/hr | 490 |
| Modesto | $101K | $/hr | 40 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $98K | $/hr | 110 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $95K | $/hr | 270 |
| Salinas | $92K | $/hr | 50 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $92K | $/hr | 190 |
| Vallejo | $77K | $/hr | 30 |
Commercial Pilots salary range in California
Commercial Pilots careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a commercial pilots make in California?▼
The median commercial pilots salary in California is $122,100 per year ($null/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $122,670. Salaries range from $59,790 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a commercial pilots in California?▼
Commercial Pilots positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a commercial pilots afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $122,100, a commercial pilots in California would take home approximately $7,226/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for commercial pilots in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for commercial pilots in California are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($177,300), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($170,000), Chico ($112,080). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for commercial pilots?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.1%. On a $122,100 salary, this means roughly $7,493/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.