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Science · California

How to Become a Life Scientists, All Other in California

Life Scientists, All Others in California earn a median salary of $128,750/year, which is 47% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.3%. After taxes and rent, a life scientists, all other takes home approximately $6,142/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$129K
Median salary in California
+47%
vs. national average
6.3%
State income tax
880
Employed in California

What a life scientists, all other can afford in California

Gross annual salary$128,750
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 6.3% state tax)$7,554/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home18.7% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$128,750/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,142/mo

Becoming a life scientists, all other in California

1

Meet education requirements

Life Scientists, All Other positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many life scientists, all other 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.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for life scientists, all others. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 880 life scientists, all others. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad.

Life Scientists, All Other salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$175K$84.29/hr60
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$87K$41.88/hr70
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$78K$37.45/hr40

Life Scientists, All Other salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$68K
25th percentile
$86K
Median (50th)
$129K
75th percentile
$207K
90th percentile (senior)
$0
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Life Scientists, All Other careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a life scientists, all other make in California?

The median life scientists, all other salary in California is $128,750 per year ($61.9/hr). This is 47% above the national median of $87,800. Salaries range from $67,540 to $0.

What are the requirements to become a life scientists, all other in California?

Life Scientists, All Other 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 life scientists, all other afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $128,750, a life scientists, all other in California would take home approximately $7,554/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for life scientists, all others in California?

The highest paying metro areas for life scientists, all others in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($175,330), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($87,110), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($77,900). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for life scientists, all others?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.3%. On a $128,750 salary, this means roughly $8,111/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.