How to Become a Surveyors in California
Surveyors in California earn a median salary of $103,790/year, which is 43% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.6%. After taxes and rent, a surveyors takes home approximately $4,889/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a surveyors can afford in California
Becoming a surveyors in California
Meet education requirements
Surveyors 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 surveyors 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 surveyorss. 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 3,750 surveyors. The highest concentrations are in Yuba City and Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom.
Surveyors salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yuba City | $131K | $62.85/hr | 50 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $125K | $60.09/hr | 310 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $123K | $58.99/hr | 520 |
| Redding | $121K | $58.29/hr | 40 |
| Fresno | $116K | $55.59/hr | 130 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $110K | $53.1/hr | 190 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $104K | $50.23/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $104K | $49.97/hr | 760 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $103K | $49.63/hr | 360 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $102K | $49.22/hr | 400 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $102K | $49.12/hr | — |
| Modesto | $102K | $48.89/hr | 50 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $95K | $45.61/hr | 60 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $89K | $43/hr | 110 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $83K | $39.96/hr | 90 |
Surveyors salary range in California
Surveyors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a surveyors make in California?▼
The median surveyors salary in California is $103,790 per year ($49.9/hr). This is 43% above the national median of $72,740. Salaries range from $57,330 to $158,720.
What are the requirements to become a surveyors in California?▼
Surveyors 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 surveyors afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $103,790, a surveyors in California would take home approximately $6,301/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for surveyors in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for surveyors in California are Yuba City ($130,730), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($124,990), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($122,690). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for surveyors?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.6%. On a $103,790 salary, this means roughly $5,790/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.