How to Become a Construction Laborers in California
Construction Laborers in California earn a median salary of $60,540/year, which is 30% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.2%. After taxes and rent, a construction laborers takes home approximately $2,650/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a construction laborers can afford in California
Becoming a construction laborers in California
Meet education requirements
Construction Laborers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many construction laborers 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 construction laborerss. 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 85,370 construction laborers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Construction Laborers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $76K | $36.61/hr | 11,290 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $72K | $34.53/hr | 4,100 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $64K | $30.54/hr | 1,560 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $60K | $29.05/hr | 7,140 |
| Vallejo | $60K | $29.02/hr | 1,040 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $60K | $29/hr | 1,170 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $60K | $28.8/hr | 610 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $60K | $28.62/hr | 21,240 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $59K | $28.28/hr | 1,600 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $59K | $28.27/hr | 110 |
| Redding | $59K | $28.2/hr | 560 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $59K | $28.18/hr | 7,530 |
| Modesto | $58K | $28.07/hr | 980 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $58K | $27.99/hr | 11,920 |
| Salinas | $57K | $27.57/hr | 780 |
Construction Laborers salary range in California
Construction Laborers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a construction laborers make in California?▼
The median construction laborers salary in California is $60,540 per year ($29.11/hr). This is 30% above the national median of $46,730. Salaries range from $42,410 to $94,200.
What are the requirements to become a construction laborers in California?▼
Construction Laborers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a construction laborers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $60,540, a construction laborers in California would take home approximately $4,062/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for construction laborers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for construction laborers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($76,150), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($71,820), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($63,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for construction laborers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.2%. On a $60,540 salary, this means roughly $1,941/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.