How to Become a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in California
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in California earn a median salary of $61,670/year, which is 12% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a payroll and timekeeping clerks takes home approximately $2,718/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a payroll and timekeeping clerks can afford in California
Becoming a payroll and timekeeping clerks in California
Meet education requirements
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks 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 payroll and timekeeping clerks 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 payroll and timekeeping clerkss. 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 23,180 payroll and timekeeping clerks. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $80K | $38.53/hr | 990 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $78K | $37.59/hr | 2,590 |
| Napa | $67K | $32.33/hr | 120 |
| Vallejo | $65K | $31.11/hr | 140 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $63K | $30.47/hr | 1,630 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $63K | $30.33/hr | 1,980 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $62K | $30/hr | 240 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $62K | $29.9/hr | 140 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $61K | $29.12/hr | 120 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $60K | $28.88/hr | 1,690 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $59K | $28.57/hr | 8,380 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $59K | $28.51/hr | 100 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $59K | $28.14/hr | 230 |
| Redding | $59K | $28.12/hr | 80 |
| Yuba City | $58K | $28.12/hr | 60 |
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks salary range in California
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a payroll and timekeeping clerks make in California?▼
The median payroll and timekeeping clerks salary in California is $61,670 per year ($29.65/hr). This is 12% above the national median of $55,290. Salaries range from $35,600 to $88,140.
What are the requirements to become a payroll and timekeeping clerks in California?▼
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks 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 payroll and timekeeping clerks afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $61,670, a payroll and timekeeping clerks in California would take home approximately $4,130/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for payroll and timekeeping clerks in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for payroll and timekeeping clerks in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($80,150), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($78,180), Napa ($67,250). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for payroll and timekeeping clerks?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $61,670 salary, this means roughly $2,032/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.