How to Become a Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in California
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in California earn a median salary of $131,430/year, which is 31% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.4%. After taxes and rent, a medical scientists, except epidemiologists takes home approximately $6,273/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a medical scientists, except epidemiologists can afford in California
Becoming a medical scientists, except epidemiologists in California
Meet education requirements
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists 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
Many medical scientists, except epidemiologists 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 medical scientists, except epidemiologistss. 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 24,190 medical scientists, except epidemiologists. The highest concentrations are in Vallejo and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vallejo | $159K | $76.35/hr | 90 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $156K | $75/hr | 1,600 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $145K | $69.55/hr | 100 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $143K | $68.53/hr | 6,870 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $139K | $66.88/hr | 140 |
| Modesto | $136K | $65.47/hr | 100 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $131K | $63.17/hr | 930 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $131K | $63.06/hr | 180 |
| Fresno | $130K | $62.34/hr | 330 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $129K | $61.96/hr | 990 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $128K | $61.77/hr | 6,600 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $128K | $61.67/hr | 4,240 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $127K | $61.07/hr | 150 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $126K | $60.43/hr | 250 |
| Chico | $124K | $59.78/hr | 60 |
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary range in California
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical scientists, except epidemiologists make in California?▼
The median medical scientists, except epidemiologists salary in California is $131,430 per year ($63.19/hr). This is 31% above the national median of $100,590. Salaries range from $80,480 to $169,080.
What are the requirements to become a medical scientists, except epidemiologists in California?▼
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists 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 medical scientists, except epidemiologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $131,430, a medical scientists, except epidemiologists in California would take home approximately $7,685/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical scientists, except epidemiologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical scientists, except epidemiologists in California are Vallejo ($158,810), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($155,990), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($144,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for medical scientists, except epidemiologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.4%. On a $131,430 salary, this means roughly $8,361/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.