How to Become a Surgical Technologists in California
Surgical Technologists in California earn a median salary of $81,120/year, which is 29% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a surgical technologists takes home approximately $3,736/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a surgical technologists can afford in California
Becoming a surgical technologists in California
Meet education requirements
Surgical Technologists 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 surgical technologists 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 surgical technologistss. 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 10,570 surgical technologists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Rosa-Petaluma.
Surgical Technologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $103K | $49.61/hr | 670 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $102K | $48.95/hr | 120 |
| Vallejo | $101K | $48.79/hr | 130 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $99K | $47.51/hr | 1,260 |
| Napa | $98K | $47.04/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $95K | $45.77/hr | 600 |
| Redding | $94K | $45.29/hr | 50 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $82K | $39.63/hr | 960 |
| Modesto | $82K | $39.46/hr | 170 |
| Salinas | $81K | $38.89/hr | 150 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $81K | $38.84/hr | 3,500 |
| Chico | $80K | $38.59/hr | 90 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $80K | $38.49/hr | 130 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $78K | $37.63/hr | 130 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $78K | $37.41/hr | 160 |
Surgical Technologists salary range in California
Surgical Technologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a surgical technologists make in California?▼
The median surgical technologists salary in California is $81,120 per year ($39/hr). This is 29% above the national median of $62,830. Salaries range from $57,070 to $114,390.
What are the requirements to become a surgical technologists in California?▼
Surgical Technologists 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 surgical technologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $81,120, a surgical technologists in California would take home approximately $5,148/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for surgical technologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for surgical technologists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($103,190), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($101,820), Vallejo ($101,470). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for surgical technologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $81,120 salary, this means roughly $3,682/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.