How to Become a Mechanical Engineers in California
Mechanical Engineers in California earn a median salary of $126,370/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.2%. After taxes and rent, a mechanical engineers takes home approximately $6,024/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a mechanical engineers can afford in California
Becoming a mechanical engineers in California
Meet education requirements
Mechanical Engineers 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 mechanical engineers 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 mechanical engineerss. 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 27,090 mechanical engineers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Mechanical Engineers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $148K | $71.02/hr | 3,910 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $146K | $70.02/hr | 4,670 |
| Salinas | $141K | $67.99/hr | 60 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $129K | $62.11/hr | 200 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $129K | $61.86/hr | 3,320 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $123K | $59.02/hr | 390 |
| Chico | $122K | $58.83/hr | 50 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $116K | $55.99/hr | 560 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $116K | $55.95/hr | 1,230 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $114K | $54.95/hr | 8,280 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $112K | $53.99/hr | 170 |
| Vallejo | $112K | $53.62/hr | 130 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $110K | $53.03/hr | 800 |
| Redding | $104K | $49.9/hr | 60 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $103K | $49.68/hr | 200 |
Mechanical Engineers salary range in California
Mechanical Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mechanical engineers make in California?▼
The median mechanical engineers salary in California is $126,370 per year ($60.76/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $102,320. Salaries range from $77,360 to $188,660.
What are the requirements to become a mechanical engineers in California?▼
Mechanical Engineers 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 mechanical engineers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $126,370, a mechanical engineers in California would take home approximately $7,436/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for mechanical engineers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for mechanical engineers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($147,730), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($145,640), Salinas ($141,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for mechanical engineers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.2%. On a $126,370 salary, this means roughly $7,890/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.