Skip to content
AffordMap
Healthcare · California

How to Become a Physicians, Pathologists in California

Physicians, Pathologists in California earn a median salary of $186,300/year, which is 40% below the national average. California has a state income tax of ~7.2%. After taxes and rent, a physicians, pathologists takes home approximately $8,855/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.

$186K
Median salary in California
-40%
vs. national average
7.2%
State income tax
1,790
Employed in California

What a physicians, pathologists can afford in California

Gross annual salary$186,300
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 7.2% state tax)$10,438/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,583/mo
Rent as % of take-home15.2% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$186,300/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$8,855/mo

Becoming a physicians, pathologists in California

1

Meet education requirements

Physicians, Pathologists positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many physicians, pathologists 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 physicians, pathologistss. 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 1,790 physicians, pathologists. The highest concentrations are in San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.

Physicians, Pathologists salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$333K$160.25/hr90
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$319K$153.53/hr330
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$248K$119.43/hr30
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$186K$89.57/hr,
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$143K$68.81/hr,

Physicians, Pathologists salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$106K
25th percentile
$167K
Median (50th)
$186K
75th percentile
$319K
90th percentile (senior)
$388K
View jobs for Physicians, Pathologists
Currently hiring in California
View →
More openings for Physicians, Pathologists
Currently hiring in California
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs, 45% off select certificates
View →
Full physicians, pathologists salary breakdown in California
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in California
After federal + 7.2% state tax
Calculate →
Compare California cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Physicians, Pathologists careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a physicians, pathologists make in California?

The median physicians, pathologists salary in California is $186,300 per year ($89.57/hr). This is 40% below the national median of $312,400. Salaries range from $105,750 to $387,760.

What are the requirements to become a physicians, pathologists in California?

Physicians, Pathologists positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a physicians, pathologists afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $186,300, a physicians, pathologists in California would take home approximately $10,438/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,583/month, that's 15.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for physicians, pathologists in California?

The highest paying metro areas for physicians, pathologists in California are San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($333,330), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($319,340), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($248,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for physicians, pathologists?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 7.2%. On a $186,300 salary, this means roughly $13,464/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.