How to Become a Manicurists and Pedicurists in California
Manicurists and Pedicurists in California earn a median salary of $35,000/year, which is 1% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.7%. After taxes and rent, a manicurists and pedicurists takes home approximately $1,053/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a manicurists and pedicurists can afford in California
Becoming a manicurists and pedicurists in California
Meet education requirements
Manicurists and Pedicurists positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many manicurists and pedicurists 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 manicurists and pedicuristss. 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 37,730 manicurists and pedicurists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Napa.
Manicurists and Pedicurists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $40K | $19.21/hr | 2,160 |
| Napa | $37K | $17.88/hr | 110 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $37K | $17.75/hr | 350 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $36K | $17.54/hr | 4,090 |
| Vallejo | $36K | $17.36/hr | 460 |
| Salinas | $36K | $17.08/hr | 210 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $35K | $17.05/hr | 3,910 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $35K | $17/hr | 580 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $35K | $16.89/hr | 2,770 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $35K | $16.89/hr | 120 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $35K | $16.82/hr | 15,010 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $35K | $16.71/hr | 190 |
| Chico | $34K | $16.45/hr | 120 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $34K | $16.42/hr | 650 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $34K | $16.4/hr | 420 |
Manicurists and Pedicurists salary range in California
Manicurists and Pedicurists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a manicurists and pedicurists make in California?▼
The median manicurists and pedicurists salary in California is $35,000 per year ($16.83/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $34,660. Salaries range from $33,630 to $44,610.
What are the requirements to become a manicurists and pedicurists in California?▼
Manicurists and Pedicurists positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a manicurists and pedicurists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $35,000, a manicurists and pedicurists in California would take home approximately $2,465/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 57.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for manicurists and pedicurists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for manicurists and pedicurists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($39,950), Napa ($37,190), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($36,910). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for manicurists and pedicurists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.7%. On a $35,000 salary, this means roughly $581/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.