How to Become a Computer Programmers in California
Computer Programmers in California earn a median salary of $116,220/year, which is 18% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.0%. After taxes and rent, a computer programmers takes home approximately $5,521/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a computer programmers can afford in California
Becoming a computer programmers in California
Meet education requirements
Computer Programmers 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 programmers 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 programmerss. 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 14,720 computer programmers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad.
Computer Programmers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $159K | $76.56/hr | 1,440 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $134K | $64.21/hr | 1,800 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $122K | $58.65/hr | 3,780 |
| Visalia | $111K | $53.46/hr | 40 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $109K | $52.24/hr | 50 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $108K | $52.08/hr | 80 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $106K | $51.06/hr | 140 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $105K | $50.49/hr | 620 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $104K | $50.2/hr | 4,750 |
| Vallejo | $102K | $48.92/hr | 40 |
| Modesto | $100K | $48.17/hr | 60 |
| Merced | $98K | $46.92/hr | 30 |
| Salinas | $96K | $46.11/hr | 40 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $92K | $44.03/hr | 50 |
| Chico | $91K | $43.68/hr | 40 |
Computer Programmers salary range in California
Computer Programmers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a computer programmers make in California?▼
The median computer programmers salary in California is $116,220 per year ($55.87/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $98,670. Salaries range from $65,510 to $176,990.
What are the requirements to become a computer programmers in California?▼
Computer Programmers 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 programmers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $116,220, a computer programmers in California would take home approximately $6,933/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for computer programmers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for computer programmers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($159,250), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($133,560), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($122,000). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for computer programmers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.0%. On a $116,220 salary, this means roughly $6,946/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.