How to Become a Urban and Regional Planners in California
Urban and Regional Planners in California earn a median salary of $105,230/year, which is 26% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.6%. After taxes and rent, a urban and regional planners takes home approximately $4,962/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a urban and regional planners can afford in California
Becoming a urban and regional planners in California
Meet education requirements
Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners 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 urban and regional plannerss. 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 7,630 urban and regional planners. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Urban and Regional Planners salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $133K | $64.13/hr | 310 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $129K | $62.21/hr | 1,290 |
| Vallejo | $123K | $58.92/hr | 70 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $122K | $58.63/hr | 110 |
| Napa | $122K | $58.53/hr | 40 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $109K | $52.4/hr | 90 |
| Modesto | $106K | $51.14/hr | 80 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $106K | $50.96/hr | 1,980 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $105K | $50.59/hr | 130 |
| El Centro | $105K | $50.33/hr | 40 |
| Salinas | $104K | $50.14/hr | 110 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $104K | $49.9/hr | 70 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $103K | $49.65/hr | 80 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $103K | $49.56/hr | 730 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $102K | $49.18/hr | 140 |
Urban and Regional Planners salary range in California
Urban and Regional Planners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a urban and regional planners make in California?▼
The median urban and regional planners salary in California is $105,230 per year ($50.59/hr). This is 26% above the national median of $83,720. Salaries range from $73,710 to $159,960.
What are the requirements to become a urban and regional planners in California?▼
Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $105,230, a urban and regional planners in California would take home approximately $6,374/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for urban and regional planners in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for urban and regional planners in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($133,380), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($129,400), Vallejo ($122,550). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for urban and regional planners?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.6%. On a $105,230 salary, this means roughly $5,924/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.