How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in California
Public Relations Specialists in California earn a median salary of $81,490/year, which is 17% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $3,755/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in California
Becoming a public relations specialists in California
Meet education requirements
Public Relations Specialists 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 specialists 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 specialistss. 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 31,070 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $101K | $48.66/hr | 2,400 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $98K | $47.34/hr | 6,040 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $85K | $41.04/hr | 2,250 |
| Vallejo | $81K | $38.78/hr | 130 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $79K | $38.03/hr | 260 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $79K | $37.95/hr | 440 |
| Yuba City | $78K | $37.4/hr | 40 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $77K | $37.2/hr | 11,930 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $77K | $37.16/hr | 2,360 |
| Salinas | $76K | $36.69/hr | 140 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $76K | $36.57/hr | 230 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $74K | $35.5/hr | 160 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $74K | $35.45/hr | 1,270 |
| Napa | $74K | $35.34/hr | 80 |
| El Centro | $73K | $35.13/hr | 40 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in California
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in California?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in California is $81,490 per year ($39.18/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $48,060 to $146,040.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in California?▼
Public Relations Specialists 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 specialists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $81,490, a public relations specialists in California would take home approximately $5,167/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($101,200), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($98,460), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($85,360). 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 specialists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $81,490 salary, this means roughly $3,716/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.