How to Become a Producers and Directors in California
Producers and Directors in California earn a median salary of $122,150/year, which is 46% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.1%. After taxes and rent, a producers and directors takes home approximately $5,817/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a producers and directors can afford in California
Becoming a producers and directors in California
Meet education requirements
Producers and Directors positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many producers and directors 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 producers and directorss. 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 35,650 producers and directors. The highest concentrations are in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Producers and Directors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $128K | $61.34/hr | 24,110 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $122K | $58.75/hr | 4,850 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $88K | $42.35/hr | 1,040 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $85K | $40.7/hr | 60 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $84K | $40.19/hr | 590 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $82K | $39.29/hr | 760 |
| Napa | $79K | $37.87/hr | 30 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $78K | $37.61/hr | 40 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $78K | $37.48/hr | 140 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $78K | $37.41/hr | 60 |
| Vallejo | $78K | $37.31/hr | 40 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $77K | $37/hr | 120 |
| Fresno | $76K | $36.39/hr | 320 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $73K | $35.05/hr | 110 |
| Salinas | $69K | $33.23/hr | 80 |
Producers and Directors salary range in California
Producers and Directors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a producers and directors make in California?▼
The median producers and directors salary in California is $122,150 per year ($58.73/hr). This is 46% above the national median of $83,480. Salaries range from $51,600 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a producers and directors in California?▼
Producers and Directors 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 producers and directors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $122,150, a producers and directors in California would take home approximately $7,229/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for producers and directors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for producers and directors in California are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($127,590), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($122,210), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($88,090). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for producers and directors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.1%. On a $122,150 salary, this means roughly $7,498/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.