How to Become a Opticians, Dispensing in California
Opticians, Dispensings in California earn a median salary of $57,770/year, which is 24% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.0%. After taxes and rent, a opticians, dispensing takes home approximately $2,480/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a opticians, dispensing can afford in California
Becoming a opticians, dispensing in California
Meet education requirements
Opticians, Dispensing 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 opticians, dispensing 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 opticians, dispensings. 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 8,180 opticians, dispensings. The highest concentrations are in Vallejo and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Opticians, Dispensing salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vallejo | $64K | $30.96/hr | 90 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $62K | $29.78/hr | 330 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $61K | $29.43/hr | 870 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $61K | $29.22/hr | 110 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $59K | $28.12/hr | 930 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $58K | $27.95/hr | 3,170 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $58K | $27.91/hr | 680 |
| Chico | $56K | $27.09/hr | 30 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $56K | $27/hr | 150 |
| Salinas | $56K | $26.78/hr | 60 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $55K | $26.45/hr | 50 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $55K | $26.25/hr | 50 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $53K | $25.7/hr | 60 |
| Modesto | $53K | $25.33/hr | 120 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $51K | $24.5/hr | 580 |
Opticians, Dispensing salary range in California
Opticians, Dispensing careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a opticians, dispensing make in California?▼
The median opticians, dispensing salary in California is $57,770 per year ($27.78/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $46,560. Salaries range from $41,590 to $77,500.
What are the requirements to become a opticians, dispensing in California?▼
Opticians, Dispensing 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 opticians, dispensing afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $57,770, a opticians, dispensing in California would take home approximately $3,892/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for opticians, dispensings in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for opticians, dispensings in California are Vallejo ($64,400), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($61,940), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($61,220). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for opticians, dispensings?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.0%. On a $57,770 salary, this means roughly $1,757/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.