Petroleum Engineer Salary in Sacramento, California
The median petroleum engineer salary in Sacramento, CA is $155,524 per year, which is 18.0% above the national median and 14.5% below the California state average.
Petroleum Engineer Pay in Sacramento: What to Expect (2026)
Sacramento offers a median petroleum engineer salary of $155,524, which is $26,360 below the California state average of $181,884. Compared to the national median of $131,800, Sacramento pays above average for this role.
However, Sacramento's cost of living index is 118%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $155,524 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $131,800. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Sacramento should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for petroleum engineers in Sacramento spans from $94,400 at the 10th percentile to $238,360 at the 90th percentile — a $143,960 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $99,120, while senior petroleum engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $230,100. As a major metro area with a population of 524,943, Sacramento typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Sacramento by Experience
In Sacramento, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $99,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $230,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 118% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Sacramento, CA
| Percentile | Sacramento |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $94,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $120,360 |
| Median (50th) | $155,524 |
| 75th Percentile | $198,240 |
| 90th Percentile | $238,360 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Petroleum Engineer in Sacramento
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Sacramento 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 Sacramento may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Petroleum Engineer Jobs in Sacramento
Browse open petroleum engineer positions in Sacramento, CA: