How to Become a Physician Assistants in California
Physician Assistants in California earn a median salary of $161,080/year, which is 21% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.9%. After taxes and rent, a physician assistants takes home approximately $7,732/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a physician assistants can afford in California
Becoming a physician assistants in California
Meet education requirements
Physician Assistants positions in California typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physician assistants 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 physician assistantss. 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 13,570 physician assistants. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Napa.
Physician Assistants salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $216K | $103.65/hr | — |
| Napa | $184K | $88.43/hr | — |
| Vallejo | $181K | $86.8/hr | 130 |
| Modesto | $179K | $85.83/hr | 200 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $167K | $80.33/hr | 1,980 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $167K | $80.16/hr | 1,160 |
| Salinas | $164K | $78.7/hr | 170 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $163K | $78.46/hr | 160 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $159K | $76.57/hr | 250 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $156K | $75.2/hr | 40 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $156K | $75.1/hr | 4,710 |
| El Centro | $155K | $74.42/hr | 40 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $155K | $74.3/hr | — |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $154K | $73.86/hr | 760 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $154K | $73.81/hr | 1,100 |
Physician Assistants salary range in California
Physician Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physician assistants make in California?▼
The median physician assistants salary in California is $161,080 per year ($77.44/hr). This is 21% above the national median of $133,260. Salaries range from $94,870 to $219,300.
What are the requirements to become a physician assistants in California?▼
Physician Assistants positions in California typically require Master'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 physician assistants afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $161,080, a physician assistants in California would take home approximately $9,144/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physician assistants in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physician assistants in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($215,600), Napa ($183,930), Vallejo ($180,540). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for physician assistants?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.9%. On a $161,080 salary, this means roughly $11,118/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.