How to Become a Public Relations Managers in California
Public Relations Managers in California earn a median salary of $156,340/year, which is 13% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.8%. After taxes and rent, a public relations managers takes home approximately $7,499/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations managers can afford in California
Becoming a public relations managers in California
Meet education requirements
Public Relations Managers 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 public relations managers 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 public relations managerss. 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 9,140 public relations managers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Public Relations Managers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $218K | $105.03/hr | 910 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $179K | $85.99/hr | 2,040 |
| Napa | $159K | $76.53/hr | 30 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $148K | $71.19/hr | 100 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $147K | $70.61/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $147K | $70.5/hr | 3,460 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $146K | $70.17/hr | 30 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $144K | $69.27/hr | 50 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $140K | $67.27/hr | 480 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $140K | $67.24/hr | 630 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $139K | $66.83/hr | 40 |
| Salinas | $138K | $66.4/hr | 40 |
| Modesto | $137K | $65.81/hr | 30 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $133K | $63.98/hr | 340 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $133K | $63.71/hr | 70 |
Public Relations Managers salary range in California
Public Relations Managers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations managers make in California?▼
The median public relations managers salary in California is $156,340 per year ($75.16/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $138,520. Salaries range from $97,120 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a public relations managers in California?▼
Public Relations Managers 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 public relations managers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $156,340, a public relations managers in California would take home approximately $8,911/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations managers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations managers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($218,460), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($178,850), Napa ($159,180). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for public relations managers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.8%. On a $156,340 salary, this means roughly $10,677/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.