How to Become a Phlebotomists in California
Phlebotomists in California earn a median salary of $55,460/year, which is 27% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.9%. After taxes and rent, a phlebotomists takes home approximately $2,337/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a phlebotomists can afford in California
Becoming a phlebotomists in California
Meet education requirements
Phlebotomists positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many phlebotomists 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 phlebotomistss. 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 13,150 phlebotomists. The highest concentrations are in Santa Maria-Santa Barbara and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Phlebotomists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $61K | $29.5/hr | 250 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $61K | $29.23/hr | 460 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $60K | $28.78/hr | 1,350 |
| Redding | $58K | $28.08/hr | 90 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $58K | $28.02/hr | 120 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $57K | $27.63/hr | 40 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $57K | $27.34/hr | 4,380 |
| Salinas | $57K | $27.24/hr | 110 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $54K | $26.01/hr | 190 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $54K | $25.75/hr | 1,520 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $53K | $25.72/hr | 170 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $52K | $25.15/hr | 830 |
| Chico | $52K | $25.03/hr | 70 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $50K | $24.28/hr | 1,380 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $50K | $24.14/hr | 110 |
Phlebotomists salary range in California
Phlebotomists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a phlebotomists make in California?▼
The median phlebotomists salary in California is $55,460 per year ($26.66/hr). This is 27% above the national median of $43,660. Salaries range from $42,520 to $70,350.
What are the requirements to become a phlebotomists in California?▼
Phlebotomists positions in California typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a phlebotomists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $55,460, a phlebotomists in California would take home approximately $3,749/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for phlebotomists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for phlebotomists in California are Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($61,350), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($60,810), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($59,850). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for phlebotomists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.9%. On a $55,460 salary, this means roughly $1,618/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.