How to Become a Highway Maintenance Workers in California
Highway Maintenance Workers in California earn a median salary of $58,300/year, which is 19% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a highway maintenance workers takes home approximately $2,512/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a highway maintenance workers can afford in California
Becoming a highway maintenance workers in California
Meet education requirements
Highway Maintenance Workers 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 highway maintenance workers 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 highway maintenance workerss. 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 7,770 highway maintenance workers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Vallejo.
Highway Maintenance Workers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $77K | $37.01/hr | 350 |
| Vallejo | $75K | $36.04/hr | 80 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $75K | $35.92/hr | 90 |
| Salinas | $68K | $32.58/hr | 130 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $67K | $32.21/hr | 110 |
| Napa | $65K | $31.33/hr | 60 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $65K | $31.19/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $64K | $30.89/hr | 480 |
| Modesto | $62K | $29.65/hr | 120 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $61K | $29.11/hr | 620 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $60K | $28.83/hr | 1,030 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $58K | $28.03/hr | 2,330 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $57K | $27.5/hr | 140 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $54K | $26.19/hr | 330 |
| Redding | $54K | $26.19/hr | 90 |
Highway Maintenance Workers salary range in California
Highway Maintenance Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a highway maintenance workers make in California?▼
The median highway maintenance workers salary in California is $58,300 per year ($28.03/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $49,070. Salaries range from $42,900 to $80,200.
What are the requirements to become a highway maintenance workers in California?▼
Highway Maintenance Workers 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 highway maintenance workers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $58,300, a highway maintenance workers in California would take home approximately $3,924/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for highway maintenance workers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for highway maintenance workers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($76,980), Vallejo ($74,970), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($74,720). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for highway maintenance workers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $58,300 salary, this means roughly $1,789/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.