How to Become a Web Developers in California
Web Developers in California earn a median salary of $117,380/year, which is 29% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.0%. After taxes and rent, a web developers takes home approximately $5,580/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a web developers can afford in California
Becoming a web developers in California
Meet education requirements
Web Developers 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 web developers 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 web developerss. 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 10,820 web developers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Web Developers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $162K | $77.76/hr | 1,710 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $157K | $75.72/hr | 2,730 |
| Vallejo | $123K | $59.31/hr | 40 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $116K | $55.64/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $105K | $50.4/hr | 300 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $104K | $49.83/hr | 670 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $100K | $48.03/hr | 50 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $98K | $47.11/hr | 2,920 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $95K | $45.89/hr | 360 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $94K | $45.21/hr | 110 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $92K | $44.46/hr | 70 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $90K | $43.49/hr | 50 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $76K | $36.74/hr | 50 |
| Fresno | $74K | $35.81/hr | 90 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $60K | $28.78/hr | 90 |
Web Developers salary range in California
Web Developers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a web developers make in California?▼
The median web developers salary in California is $117,380 per year ($56.43/hr). This is 29% above the national median of $90,930. Salaries range from $49,010 to $208,140.
What are the requirements to become a web developers in California?▼
Web Developers 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 web developers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $117,380, a web developers in California would take home approximately $6,992/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for web developers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for web developers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($161,750), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($157,490), Vallejo ($123,370). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for web developers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.0%. On a $117,380 salary, this means roughly $7,054/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.