How to Become a Human Resources Specialists in California
Human Resources Specialists in California earn a median salary of $83,500/year, which is 10% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a human resources specialists takes home approximately $3,913/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a human resources specialists can afford in California
Becoming a human resources specialists in California
Meet education requirements
Human Resources Specialists 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 specialists 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 specialistss. 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 104,000 human resources specialists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Human Resources Specialists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $112K | $53.91/hr | 7,970 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $103K | $49.59/hr | 16,420 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $85K | $40.72/hr | 450 |
| Napa | $84K | $40.58/hr | 310 |
| Vallejo | $83K | $39.98/hr | 650 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $82K | $39.2/hr | 920 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $81K | $39.09/hr | 9,110 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $81K | $38.92/hr | 5,360 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $81K | $38.73/hr | 1,710 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $80K | $38.63/hr | 870 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $80K | $38.57/hr | 36,850 |
| Salinas | $80K | $38.51/hr | 630 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $78K | $37.51/hr | 610 |
| Modesto | $77K | $37.06/hr | 730 |
| Merced | $77K | $36.93/hr | 280 |
Human Resources Specialists salary range in California
Human Resources Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a human resources specialists make in California?▼
The median human resources specialists salary in California is $83,500 per year ($40.14/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $75,940. Salaries range from $52,770 to $151,410.
What are the requirements to become a human resources specialists in California?▼
Human Resources Specialists 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 specialists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $83,500, a human resources specialists in California would take home approximately $5,269/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,356/month, that's 25.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for human resources specialists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for human resources specialists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($112,140), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($103,140), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($84,690). 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 specialists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $83,500 salary, this means roughly $3,903/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.