Petroleum Engineer Salary in Los Angeles, California
The median petroleum engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $192,428 per year, which is 46.0% above the national median and 5.8% above the California state average.
Petroleum Engineer Pay in Los Angeles: What to Expect (2026)
Los Angeles offers a median petroleum engineer salary of $192,428, which is $10,544 above the California state average of $181,884. Compared to the national median of $131,800, Los Angeles pays above average for this role.
However, Los Angeles's cost of living index is 146%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $192,428 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $131,800. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Los Angeles should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for petroleum engineers in Los Angeles spans from $116,800 at the 10th percentile to $294,920 at the 90th percentile — a $178,120 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $122,640, while senior petroleum engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $284,700. As a major metro area with a population of 3,898,747, Los Angeles typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Los Angeles by Experience
In Los Angeles, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $122,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $284,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 146% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Los Angeles, CA
| Percentile | Los Angeles |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $116,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $148,920 |
| Median (50th) | $192,428 |
| 75th Percentile | $245,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $294,920 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Los Angeles
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Los Angeles and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Los Angeles may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Petroleum Engineer Jobs in Los Angeles
Browse open petroleum engineer positions in Los Angeles, CA: