Trades & Labor California (CA) Rank #2 of 50

Elevator Installer Salary in California

The median elevator installer salary in California is $139,940 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $97,860.

Median Salary
$139,940
vs National
+$42,080
State Rank
#2 of 50
Cost of Living
138%

Elevator Installer Salary Overview in California (2026)

California ranks #2 out of 50 states for elevator installer compensation. This places California in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for elevator installers seeking high pay. At $139,940 per year, elevator installers in California earn $42,080 more than the national median of $97,860.

It's worth noting that California's cost of living is 138% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $139,940 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $101,406.

The salary spread in California is significant: elevator installers at the 10th percentile earn $82,940, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $211,640 — a $128,700 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 $182,998.

Nationally, elevator installer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for elevator installers across the country.

Elevator Installer Salary in California by Experience

In California, an entry-level elevator installer earns around $85,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $203,060 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$85,800
+$25,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$141,570
+$42,570 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$203,060
+$61,060 vs national

You May Qualify for Premium Rewards

Professionals earning $139,940+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.

View Offers You Qualify For →

Salary Percentiles in California

Percentile CA Salary
10th Percentile $82,940
25th Percentile $108,680
Median (50th) $139,940
75th Percentile $174,460
90th Percentile $211,640

Elevator Installer Salary by City in California

The largest employment areas for elevator installers 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 Elevator Installer in California

Education

Most elevator installer positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Elevator SystemsElectricalHydraulicsBlueprint ReadingSafety CodesTroubleshooting

Job Outlook in California

Nationally, elevator installer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). California's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Elevator Installers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $63,120 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Elevator Installer Roles in California?

Get matched with recruiters hiring elevator installers in California at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Elevator Installer Salary in California

How much does a Elevator Installer make in California? ▼
The median elevator installer salary in California is $139,940 per year, which is 43.0% above the national median of $97,860. Salaries range from $82,940 (10th percentile) to $211,640 (90th percentile).
How much does a Elevator Installer make per hour in California? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $139,940, a elevator installer in California earns approximately $67 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is California a good state for elevator installers? ▼
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for elevator installer pay. The cost of living index is 138% of the national average. Entry-level elevator installers earn $85,800, while senior professionals earn $203,060.
How does California compare to other states for elevator installer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for elevator installers is Hawaii at $174,191. California's median of $139,940 ranks #2 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($174,191) and Massachusetts ($132,111).
What is the entry-level elevator installer salary in California? ▼
An entry-level elevator installer in California earns approximately $85,800 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $141,570. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $203,060.
What city in California pays elevator installers the most? ▼
San Francisco is the highest paying city in California for elevator installers, with a median salary of $182,998. Other cities include Los Angeles and San Diego.