How to Become a Lawyers in California
Lawyers in California earn a median salary of $197,790/year, which is 31% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.3%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $9,651/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in California
Becoming a lawyers in California
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in California. 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 lawyerss. 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 92,580 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.
Lawyers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $215K | $103.41/hr | 16,940 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $206K | $98.99/hr | 40,990 |
| Vallejo | $197K | $94.7/hr | 150 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $193K | $92.69/hr | 200 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $173K | $83.37/hr | 1,030 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $173K | $83.25/hr | 500 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $171K | $82.27/hr | 6,730 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $170K | $81.91/hr | 600 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $168K | $80.93/hr | 510 |
| Salinas | $168K | $80.62/hr | 390 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $165K | $79.33/hr | 8,990 |
| Napa | $159K | $76.57/hr | 120 |
| Modesto | $159K | $76.55/hr | 400 |
| Redding | $154K | $73.93/hr | 110 |
| Chico | $152K | $73.05/hr | 80 |
Lawyers salary range in California
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in California?▼
The median lawyers salary in California is $197,790 per year ($95.09/hr). This is 31% above the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $101,070 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in California?▼
Lawyers positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $197,790, a lawyers in California would take home approximately $11,063/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 12.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($215,090), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($205,900), Vallejo ($196,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for lawyers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.3%. On a $197,790 salary, this means roughly $14,532/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.