How to Become a Human Resources Managers in California
Human Resources Managers in California earn a median salary of $169,140/year, which is 21% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.0%. After taxes and rent, a human resources managers takes home approximately $8,129/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a human resources managers can afford in California
Becoming a human resources managers in California
Meet education requirements
Human Resources Managers 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 human resources managers 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 human resources managerss. 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 27,680 human resources managers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.
Human Resources Managers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $206K | $99.24/hr | 5,890 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $165K | $79.23/hr | 140 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $163K | $78.47/hr | 2,260 |
| Modesto | $162K | $78.12/hr | 190 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $162K | $78.01/hr | 420 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $162K | $77.87/hr | 8,890 |
| Napa | $157K | $75.46/hr | 120 |
| Merced | $156K | $75.21/hr | 60 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $155K | $74.71/hr | 1,220 |
| Vallejo | $155K | $74.58/hr | 120 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $155K | $74.5/hr | 240 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $151K | $72.56/hr | 220 |
| Salinas | $148K | $71.37/hr | 140 |
| Visalia | $148K | $71.21/hr | 120 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $137K | $65.78/hr | 250 |
Human Resources Managers salary range in California
Human Resources Managers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a human resources managers make in California?▼
The median human resources managers salary in California is $169,140 per year ($81.32/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $140,030. Salaries range from $97,620 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a human resources managers in California?▼
Human Resources Managers 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 human resources managers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $169,140, a human resources managers in California would take home approximately $9,541/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 14.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for human resources managers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for human resources managers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($206,420), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($164,790), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($163,220). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for human resources managers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.0%. On a $169,140 salary, this means roughly $11,868/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.