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Science · California

How to Become a Physical Scientists, All Other in California

Physical Scientists, All Others in California earn a median salary of $128,250/year, which is 9% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.3%. After taxes and rent, a physical scientists, all other takes home approximately $6,117/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$128K
Median salary in California
+9%
vs. national average
6.3%
State income tax
2,220
Employed in California

What a physical scientists, all other can afford in California

Gross annual salary$128,250
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 6.3% state tax)$7,529/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home18.8% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$128,250/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,117/mo

Becoming a physical scientists, all other in California

1

Meet education requirements

Physical Scientists, All Other positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many physical scientists, all other 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.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical scientists, all others. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 2,220 physical scientists, all others. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Maria-Santa Barbara.

Physical Scientists, All Other salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$175K$84.04/hr300
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara$147K$70.83/hr30
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$132K$63.7/hr560
Bakersfield-Delano$132K$63.59/hr30
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$130K$62.28/hr200
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$121K$58.41/hr760
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura$121K$58.33/hr60
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$106K$51.1/hr70
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$102K$48.92/hr50

Physical Scientists, All Other salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$91K
25th percentile
$115K
Median (50th)
$128K
75th percentile
$166K
90th percentile (senior)
$206K
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Physical Scientists, All Other careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a physical scientists, all other make in California?

The median physical scientists, all other salary in California is $128,250 per year ($61.66/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $117,960. Salaries range from $91,250 to $205,510.

What are the requirements to become a physical scientists, all other in California?

Physical Scientists, All Other 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 physical scientists, all other afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $128,250, a physical scientists, all other in California would take home approximately $7,529/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for physical scientists, all others in California?

The highest paying metro areas for physical scientists, all others in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($174,810), Santa Maria-Santa Barbara ($147,320), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($132,490). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for physical scientists, all others?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.3%. On a $128,250 salary, this means roughly $8,065/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.