How to Become a Network and Computer Systems Administrators in California
Network and Computer Systems Administrators in California earn a median salary of $106,620/year, which is 10% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.7%. After taxes and rent, a network and computer systems administrators takes home approximately $5,033/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a network and computer systems administrators can afford in California
Becoming a network and computer systems administrators in California
Meet education requirements
Network and Computer Systems Administrators 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 network and computer systems administrators 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 network and computer systems administratorss. 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 28,730 network and computer systems administrators. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $129K | $61.84/hr | 2,960 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $127K | $61.07/hr | 5,370 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $108K | $51.92/hr | 150 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $106K | $50.87/hr | 350 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $105K | $50.61/hr | 9,000 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $102K | $49.18/hr | 1,470 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $102K | $49.03/hr | 2,690 |
| Vallejo | $102K | $48.87/hr | 200 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $100K | $48.03/hr | 190 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $99K | $47.7/hr | 1,640 |
| Salinas | $99K | $47.67/hr | 150 |
| Merced | $99K | $47.37/hr | 60 |
| Modesto | $98K | $47.08/hr | 160 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $98K | $47.07/hr | 120 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $98K | $46.97/hr | 310 |
Network and Computer Systems Administrators salary range in California
Network and Computer Systems Administrators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a network and computer systems administrators make in California?▼
The median network and computer systems administrators salary in California is $106,620 per year ($51.26/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $96,800. Salaries range from $67,450 to $167,230.
What are the requirements to become a network and computer systems administrators in California?▼
Network and Computer Systems Administrators 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 network and computer systems administrators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $106,620, a network and computer systems administrators in California would take home approximately $6,445/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for network and computer systems administrators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for network and computer systems administrators in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($128,620), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($127,030), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($108,000). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for network and computer systems administrators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.7%. On a $106,620 salary, this means roughly $6,053/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.