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How to Become a Real Estate Brokers in California

Real Estate Brokers in California earn a median salary of $80,450/year, which is 10% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a real estate brokers takes home approximately $3,070/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$80K
Median salary in California
+10%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
8,430
Employed in California

What a real estate brokers can afford in California

Gross annual salary$80,450
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$5,114/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$2,044/mo
Rent as % of take-home40% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$80,450/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,070/mo

Becoming a real estate brokers in California

1

Meet education requirements

Real Estate Brokers 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.

2

Gain required experience

Many real estate brokers 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 real estate brokerss. 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 8,430 real estate brokers. The highest concentrations are in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and Bakersfield-Delano.

Real Estate Brokers salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$92K$44.12/hr,
Bakersfield-Delano$89K$42.86/hr50
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$80K$38.68/hr,
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura$75K$36.22/hr,
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$59K$28.25/hr760

Real Estate Brokers salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$42K
Median (50th)
$80K
75th percentile
$109K
90th percentile (senior)
$146K
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Full real estate brokers salary breakdown in California
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Real Estate Brokers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a real estate brokers make in California?

The median real estate brokers salary in California is $80,450 per year ($38.68/hr). This is 10% above the national median of $73,220. Salaries range from $37,120 to $145,660.

What are the requirements to become a real estate brokers in California?

Real Estate Brokers 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 real estate brokers afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $80,450, a real estate brokers in California would take home approximately $5,114/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,044/month, that's 40% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for real estate brokers in California?

The highest paying metro areas for real estate brokers in California are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($91,770), Bakersfield-Delano ($89,150), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($80,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for real estate brokers?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $80,450 salary, this means roughly $3,619/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.