How to Become a Film and Video Editors in California
Film and Video Editors in California earn a median salary of $83,200/year, which is 17% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a film and video editors takes home approximately $3,842/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a film and video editors can afford in California
Becoming a film and video editors in California
Meet education requirements
Film and Video Editors 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 film and video editors 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 film and video editorss. 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 9,110 film and video editors. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad.
Film and Video Editors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $101K | $48.62/hr | 1,020 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $96K | $45.98/hr | 350 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $83K | $40/hr | 6,730 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $81K | $38.85/hr | 40 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $80K | $38.42/hr | 190 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $65K | $31.23/hr | 110 |
| Fresno | $63K | $30.1/hr | 60 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $51K | $24.46/hr | 50 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $50K | $24.16/hr | 150 |
Film and Video Editors salary range in California
Film and Video Editors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a film and video editors make in California?▼
The median film and video editors salary in California is $83,200 per year ($40/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $70,980. Salaries range from $46,170 to $167,290.
What are the requirements to become a film and video editors in California?▼
Film and Video Editors 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 film and video editors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $83,200, a film and video editors in California would take home approximately $5,254/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for film and video editors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for film and video editors in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($101,130), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($95,630), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($83,200). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for film and video editors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $83,200 salary, this means roughly $3,875/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.