How to Become a Real Estate Sales Agents in California
Real Estate Sales Agents in California earn a median salary of $62,420/year, which is 11% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a real estate sales agents takes home approximately $2,763/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a real estate sales agents can afford in California
Becoming a real estate sales agents in California
Meet education requirements
Real Estate Sales Agents 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 real estate sales agents 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 real estate sales agentss. 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 22,370 real estate sales agents. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Yuba City.
Real Estate Sales Agents salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $88K | $42.41/hr | — |
| Yuba City | $78K | $37.59/hr | 90 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $74K | $35.44/hr | 4,040 |
| Redding | $72K | $34.81/hr | 70 |
| Salinas | $64K | $30.72/hr | — |
| Vallejo | $63K | $30.3/hr | 120 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $63K | $30.15/hr | 200 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $62K | $29.58/hr | — |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $60K | $28.96/hr | 150 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $60K | $28.77/hr | 890 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $59K | $28.55/hr | — |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $59K | $28.29/hr | 310 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $58K | $28.04/hr | 9,840 |
| Merced | $57K | $27.63/hr | 40 |
| Chico | $57K | $27.41/hr | 50 |
Real Estate Sales Agents salary range in California
Real Estate Sales Agents careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a real estate sales agents make in California?▼
The median real estate sales agents salary in California is $62,420 per year ($30.01/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $56,320. Salaries range from $38,880 to $116,140.
What are the requirements to become a real estate sales agents in California?▼
Real Estate Sales Agents 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 sales agents afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $62,420, a real estate sales agents in California would take home approximately $4,175/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for real estate sales agents in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for real estate sales agents in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($88,220), Yuba City ($78,190), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($73,720). 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 sales agents?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $62,420 salary, this means roughly $2,092/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.