Archivist Salary in California
The median archivist salary in California is $80,923 per year, which is 38.0% above the national median of $58,640.
Archivist Salary Overview in California (2026)
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for archivist compensation. This places California in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for archivists seeking high pay. At $80,923 per year, archivists in California earn $22,283 more than the national median of $58,640.
It's worth noting that California's cost of living is 138% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $80,923 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $58,640.
The salary spread in California is significant: archivists at the 10th percentile earn $49,680, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $129,720 — a $80,040 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in California for this role is San Francisco, where the median reaches $106,725.
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for archivists across the country.
Archivist Salary in California by Experience
In California, an entry-level archivist earns around $52,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,440 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.
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| Percentile | CA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $49,680 |
| 25th Percentile | $63,480 |
| Median (50th) | $80,923 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $129,720 |
Archivist Salary by City in California
The largest employment areas for archivists in California include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and San Jose. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Archivist in California
Education
Most archivist positions require a master's degree. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in California
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). California's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Archivists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $40,517 over your career trajectory.
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