Automotive & Maintenance California (CA) Rank #2 of 50

Maintenance Worker Salary in California

The median maintenance worker salary in California is $59,616 per year, which is 38.0% above the national median of $43,200.

Median Salary
$59,616
vs National
+$16,416
State Rank
#2 of 50
Cost of Living
138%

Maintenance Worker Salary Overview in California (2026)

California ranks #2 out of 50 states for maintenance worker compensation. This places California in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for maintenance workers seeking high pay. At $59,616 per year, maintenance workers in California earn $16,416 more than the national median of $43,200.

It's worth noting that California's cost of living is 138% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $59,616 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $43,200.

The salary spread in California is significant: maintenance workers at the 10th percentile earn $38,640, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $92,460 — a $53,820 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 $78,624.

Nationally, maintenance worker employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for maintenance workers across the country.

Maintenance Worker Salary in California by Experience

In California, an entry-level maintenance worker earns around $41,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $86,940 per year. The cost of living index in California is 138% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$41,400
+$11,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$60,720
+$16,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$86,940
+$23,940 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in California

Percentile CA Salary
10th Percentile $38,640
25th Percentile $46,920
Median (50th) $59,616
75th Percentile $75,900
90th Percentile $92,460

Maintenance Worker Salary by City in California

The largest employment areas for maintenance workers 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 Maintenance Worker in California

Education

Most maintenance worker positions require a high school diploma. California has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

General RepairPlumbing BasicsElectrical BasicsHVAC BasicsPaintingSafety

Job Outlook in California

Nationally, maintenance worker employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). California's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Maintenance Worker Salary in California

How much does a Maintenance Worker make in California? ▼
The median maintenance worker salary in California is $59,616 per year, which is 38.0% above the national median of $43,200. Salaries range from $38,640 (10th percentile) to $92,460 (90th percentile).
How much does a Maintenance Worker make per hour in California? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $59,616, a maintenance worker in California earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is California a good state for maintenance workers? ▼
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for maintenance worker pay. The cost of living index is 138% of the national average. Entry-level maintenance workers earn $41,400, while senior professionals earn $86,940.
How does California compare to other states for maintenance worker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for maintenance workers is Hawaii at $73,440. California's median of $59,616 ranks #2 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($73,440) and Massachusetts ($58,320).
What is the entry-level maintenance worker salary in California? ▼
An entry-level maintenance worker in California earns approximately $41,400 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $60,720. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $86,940.
What city in California pays maintenance workers the most? ▼
San Francisco is the highest paying city in California for maintenance workers, with a median salary of $78,624. Other cities include Los Angeles and San Diego.