How to Become a Postal Service Mail Carriers in California
Postal Service Mail Carriers in California earn a median salary of $58,390/year, which is 2% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a postal service mail carriers takes home approximately $2,518/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a postal service mail carriers can afford in California
Becoming a postal service mail carriers in California
Meet education requirements
Postal Service Mail Carriers 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 postal service mail carriers 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 postal service mail carrierss. 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 33,150 postal service mail carriers. The highest concentrations are in Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura and Napa.
Postal Service Mail Carriers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $65K | $31.03/hr | 660 |
| Napa | $65K | $31.03/hr | 130 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $62K | $29.95/hr | 580 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $62K | $29.67/hr | 4,750 |
| Salinas | $61K | $29.56/hr | 280 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $61K | $29.21/hr | 2,050 |
| Modesto | $60K | $29.06/hr | 390 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $60K | $29.06/hr | 1,460 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $60K | $28.66/hr | 11,490 |
| Yuba City | $60K | $28.61/hr | 130 |
| Merced | $59K | $28.44/hr | 190 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $58K | $28.07/hr | 340 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $58K | $28.07/hr | 2,950 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $57K | $27.64/hr | 3,250 |
| Fresno | $57K | $27.64/hr | 860 |
Postal Service Mail Carriers salary range in California
Postal Service Mail Carriers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a postal service mail carriers make in California?▼
The median postal service mail carriers salary in California is $58,390 per year ($28.07/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $57,490. Salaries range from $41,250 to $75,300.
What are the requirements to become a postal service mail carriers in California?▼
Postal Service Mail Carriers 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 postal service mail carriers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $58,390, a postal service mail carriers in California would take home approximately $3,930/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for postal service mail carriers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for postal service mail carriers in California are Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($64,540), Napa ($64,540), Stockton-Lodi ($62,300). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for postal service mail carriers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $58,390 salary, this means roughly $1,794/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.