How to Become a Solar Photovoltaic Installers in California
Solar Photovoltaic Installers in California earn a median salary of $60,790/year, which is 17% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.2%. After taxes and rent, a solar photovoltaic installers takes home approximately $2,665/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a solar photovoltaic installers can afford in California
Becoming a solar photovoltaic installers in California
Meet education requirements
Solar Photovoltaic Installers 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 solar photovoltaic installers 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 solar photovoltaic installerss. 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 8,970 solar photovoltaic installers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $73K | $35.05/hr | 440 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $70K | $33.84/hr | 1,140 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $67K | $32.42/hr | 70 |
| Modesto | $64K | $30.78/hr | 90 |
| Salinas | $63K | $30.12/hr | — |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $62K | $29.9/hr | 120 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $62K | $29.88/hr | 820 |
| Vallejo | $62K | $29.61/hr | 130 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $61K | $29.29/hr | 100 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $60K | $28.91/hr | 1,120 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $60K | $28.68/hr | 1,870 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $59K | $28.43/hr | 1,030 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $58K | $27.74/hr | 130 |
| Fresno | $57K | $27.28/hr | 260 |
| Chico | $56K | $27.03/hr | 50 |
Solar Photovoltaic Installers salary range in California
Solar Photovoltaic Installers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a solar photovoltaic installers make in California?▼
The median solar photovoltaic installers salary in California is $60,790 per year ($29.23/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $51,860. Salaries range from $48,050 to $94,890.
What are the requirements to become a solar photovoltaic installers in California?▼
Solar Photovoltaic Installers 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 solar photovoltaic installers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $60,790, a solar photovoltaic installers in California would take home approximately $4,077/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 34.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for solar photovoltaic installers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for solar photovoltaic installers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($72,900), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($70,390), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($67,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for solar photovoltaic installers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.2%. On a $60,790 salary, this means roughly $1,961/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.