How to Become a Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers in California
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers in California earn a median salary of $111,400/year, which is 12% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.8%. After taxes and rent, a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers takes home approximately $5,276/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers can afford in California
Becoming a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers in California
Meet education requirements
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers 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 geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers 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 geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographerss. 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 3,150 geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers. The highest concentrations are in Santa Cruz-Watsonville and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $130K | $62.44/hr | 50 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $129K | $61.88/hr | 150 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $124K | $59.75/hr | 540 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $122K | $58.87/hr | 70 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $121K | $57.96/hr | 120 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $115K | $55.41/hr | 50 |
| Fresno | $115K | $55.35/hr | 80 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $115K | $55.35/hr | 480 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $108K | $51.95/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $105K | $50.43/hr | 810 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $105K | $50.37/hr | 70 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $99K | $47.56/hr | 260 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $93K | $44.7/hr | 140 |
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers salary range in California
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers make in California?▼
The median geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers salary in California is $111,400 per year ($53.56/hr). This is 12% above the national median of $99,240. Salaries range from $66,560 to $178,880.
What are the requirements to become a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers in California?▼
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers 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 geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $111,400, a geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers in California would take home approximately $6,688/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers in California are Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($129,880), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($128,710), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($124,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.8%. On a $111,400 salary, this means roughly $6,498/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.