Electrical Engineer Salary in California
The median electrical engineer salary in California is $144,362 per year, which is 38.0% above the national median of $104,610.
Electrical Engineer Salary Overview in California (2026)
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for electrical engineer compensation. This places California in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for electrical engineers seeking high pay. At $144,362 per year, electrical engineers in California earn $39,752 more than the national median of $104,610.
It's worth noting that California's cost of living is 138% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $144,362 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $104,610.
The salary spread in California is significant: electrical engineers at the 10th percentile earn $91,080, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $223,560 — a $132,480 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 $190,390.
Nationally, electrical engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for electrical engineers across the country.
Electrical Engineer Salary in California by Experience
In California, an entry-level electrical engineer earns around $93,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $213,900 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in California
| Percentile | CA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $91,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $114,540 |
| Median (50th) | $144,362 |
| 75th Percentile | $182,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $223,560 |
Electrical Engineer Salary by City in California
The largest employment areas for electrical engineers 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 Electrical Engineer in California
Education
Most electrical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in California
Nationally, electrical engineer employment is projected to grow 5% 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 Electrical Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $69,538 over your career trajectory.
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