How to Become a Interpreters and Translators in California
Interpreters and Translators in California earn a median salary of $73,510/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a interpreters and translators takes home approximately $3,348/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a interpreters and translators can afford in California
Becoming a interpreters and translators in California
Meet education requirements
Interpreters and Translators 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 interpreters and translators 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 interpreters and translatorss. 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 6,710 interpreters and translators. The highest concentrations are in Santa Cruz-Watsonville and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Interpreters and Translators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $99K | $47.55/hr | 30 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $97K | $46.4/hr | 340 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $85K | $40.71/hr | 840 |
| Salinas | $80K | $38.52/hr | 760 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $78K | $37.57/hr | 40 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $78K | $37.36/hr | 540 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $72K | $34.71/hr | 110 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $72K | $34.69/hr | 80 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $67K | $32.45/hr | 60 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $66K | $31.81/hr | 490 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $66K | $31.6/hr | 1,900 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $65K | $31.15/hr | 480 |
| Fresno | $64K | $30.91/hr | 150 |
| Visalia | $63K | $30.09/hr | 60 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $60K | $28.61/hr | 60 |
Interpreters and Translators salary range in California
Interpreters and Translators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a interpreters and translators make in California?▼
The median interpreters and translators salary in California is $73,510 per year ($35.34/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $59,440. Salaries range from $47,580 to $108,390.
What are the requirements to become a interpreters and translators in California?▼
Interpreters and Translators 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 interpreters and translators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $73,510, a interpreters and translators in California would take home approximately $4,760/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for interpreters and translators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for interpreters and translators in California are Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($98,910), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($96,510), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($84,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for interpreters and translators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $73,510 salary, this means roughly $2,979/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.