How to Become a Computer Hardware Engineers in California
Computer Hardware Engineers in California earn a median salary of $179,880/year, which is 16% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.2%. After taxes and rent, a computer hardware engineers takes home approximately $8,677/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a computer hardware engineers can afford in California
Becoming a computer hardware engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Computer Hardware 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 computer hardware 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 computer hardware 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 24,200 computer hardware engineers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Computer Hardware Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $197K | $94.76/hr | 9,320 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $173K | $83.14/hr | 5,090 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $169K | $81.36/hr | 3,200 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $165K | $79.31/hr | 160 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $165K | $79.14/hr | 40 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $163K | $78.35/hr | 80 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $141K | $67.74/hr | 2,160 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $131K | $63.19/hr | 320 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $126K | $60.58/hr | 190 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $82K | $39.45/hr | 330 |
Computer Hardware Engineers salary range in California
Computer Hardware Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a computer hardware engineers make in California?▼
The median computer hardware engineers salary in California is $179,880 per year ($86.48/hr). This is 16% above the national median of $155,020. Salaries range from $117,180 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a computer hardware engineers in California?▼
Computer Hardware 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 computer hardware engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $179,880, a computer hardware engineers in California would take home approximately $10,089/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 14% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for computer hardware engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for computer hardware engineers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($197,090), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($172,920), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($169,230). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for computer hardware engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.2%. On a $179,880 salary, this means roughly $12,866/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.