How to Become a Landscape Architects in California
Landscape Architects in California earn a median salary of $98,880/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.4%. After taxes and rent, a landscape architects takes home approximately $4,639/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a landscape architects can afford in California
Becoming a landscape architects in California
Meet education requirements
Landscape Architects 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 landscape architects 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 landscape architectss. 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 2,820 landscape architects. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Landscape Architects salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $118K | $56.78/hr | 720 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $109K | $52.31/hr | 120 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $102K | $49.11/hr | 190 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $99K | $47.37/hr | 60 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $98K | $47.15/hr | 800 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $98K | $46.94/hr | 260 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $96K | $45.97/hr | 230 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $84K | $40.57/hr | 40 |
| Fresno | $84K | $40.41/hr | 60 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $79K | $37.85/hr | 60 |
Landscape Architects salary range in California
Landscape Architects careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a landscape architects make in California?▼
The median landscape architects salary in California is $98,880 per year ($47.54/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $79,660. Salaries range from $60,840 to $191,690.
What are the requirements to become a landscape architects in California?▼
Landscape Architects 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 landscape architects afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $98,880, a landscape architects in California would take home approximately $6,051/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for landscape architects in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for landscape architects in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($118,090), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($108,790), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($102,150). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for landscape architects?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.4%. On a $98,880 salary, this means roughly $5,333/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.