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Food Service · California

How to Become a Dishwashers in California

Dishwashers in California earn a median salary of $37,440/year, which is 11% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.8%. After taxes and rent, a dishwashers takes home approximately $1,208/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$37K
Median salary in California
+11%
vs. national average
1.8%
State income tax
73,050
Employed in California

What a dishwashers can afford in California

Gross annual salary$37,440
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 1.8% state tax)$2,620/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home53.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$37,440/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,208/mo

Becoming a dishwashers in California

1

Meet education requirements

Dishwashers 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.

2

Gain required experience

Many dishwashers 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.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for dishwasherss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 73,050 dishwashers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.

Dishwashers salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$43K$20.65/hr3,860
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$40K$19.32/hr8,440
Napa$39K$18.58/hr590
Santa Rosa-Petaluma$38K$18.26/hr1,320
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$37K$18.02/hr27,820
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$37K$17.77/hr6,870
Vallejo$37K$17.76/hr520
Salinas$37K$17.75/hr960
Santa Cruz-Watsonville$37K$17.56/hr500
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$36K$17.52/hr3,640
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara$36K$17.43/hr1,200
San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles$36K$17.26/hr760
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$36K$17.1/hr7,540
Modesto$35K$17.02/hr760
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura$35K$17.02/hr1,330

Dishwashers salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$37K
75th percentile
$42K
90th percentile (senior)
$47K
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Dishwashers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a dishwashers make in California?

The median dishwashers salary in California is $37,440 per year ($18/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $33,670. Salaries range from $34,430 to $46,870.

What are the requirements to become a dishwashers in California?

Dishwashers 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 dishwashers afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $37,440, a dishwashers in California would take home approximately $2,620/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 53.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for dishwashers in California?

The highest paying metro areas for dishwashers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($42,950), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($40,180), Napa ($38,640). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for dishwashers?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.8%. On a $37,440 salary, this means roughly $678/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.