How to Become a Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers in California
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers in California earn a median salary of $47,170/year, which is 5% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.4%. After taxes and rent, a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers takes home approximately $1,823/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers can afford in California
Becoming a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers in California
Meet education requirements
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers 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 morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers 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 morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangerss. 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 2,670 morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $56K | $27.05/hr | 320 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $56K | $26.97/hr | 120 |
| Vallejo | $56K | $26.95/hr | 40 |
| Modesto | $49K | $23.34/hr | 50 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $48K | $23.02/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $48K | $22.93/hr | 1,000 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $48K | $22.86/hr | 130 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $46K | $22.23/hr | 240 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $46K | $22.19/hr | 40 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $46K | $22.04/hr | 280 |
| Fresno | $45K | $21.4/hr | 90 |
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers salary range in California
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers make in California?▼
The median morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers salary in California is $47,170 per year ($22.68/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $49,800. Salaries range from $35,200 to $76,070.
What are the requirements to become a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers in California?▼
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers 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 morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $47,170, a morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers in California would take home approximately $3,235/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($56,260), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($56,100), Vallejo ($56,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for morticians, undertakers, and funeral arrangers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.4%. On a $47,170 salary, this means roughly $1,121/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.