Bookkeeper Salary in California
Based on 152K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$59,230
$28.48/hr
vs National Average
$50,589
+17.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$42K – $82K
152K employed in California
The median Bookkeeper salary in California is $59,230 per year, which translates to approximately $28 per hour. This figure is 17.1% higher than the national average for bookkeepers, reflecting the state's higher cost of living and demand for accounting professionals. California employs a substantial workforce in this role, with over 151,870 bookkeepers contributing to its economy.
Several factors can influence a bookkeeper's earning potential in California. Experience level is a primary driver, with entry-level positions typically starting around $41,600 annually, while seasoned professionals can earn up to $81,990. The specific industry, the size and financial complexity of the employing company, and geographic location within the state also play significant roles in determining compensation.
Salary Distribution — Bookkeeper in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $41,600 |
| 25th percentile | $48,600 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $59,230 |
| 75th percentile | $70,600 |
| 90th percentile | $81,990 |
Top-Paying Industries for Bookkeeper (U.S.)
Which industries pay Bookkeepers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Bookkeepers in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $60,070 | 5K |
| Construction | $54,890 | 117K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $52,780 | 91K |
| Manufacturing | $52,640 | 92K |
| Real Estate and Rental and Leasing | $52,400 | 58K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Bookkeeper in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,230 |
| 2026 (projected) | $61,007 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,230 | $50,589 |
| 2026 (projected) | $61,007 | $52,107 |
Bookkeeper Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $48,600 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $59,230 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $70,600 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $81,990 |
Bookkeeper Salary in Other States
Related Bookkeeper Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Bookkeeper ($59,230 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Bookkeeper | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Administrative Assistant in CA | $55,400 | -6.5% | $26.63/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in CA | $49,560 | -16.3% | $23.83/hr |
| Receptionist in CA | $44,100 | -25.5% | $21.20/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in CA | $59,250 | +0.0% | $28.49/hr |
| Truck Driver in CA | $60,230 | +1.7% | $28.96/hr |
| Construction Laborer in CA | $60,270 | +1.8% | $28.98/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in CA | $57,560 | -2.8% | $27.67/hr |
| Maintenance and Repair Worker in CA | $57,000 | -3.8% | $27.40/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in CA | $62,600 | +5.7% | $30.10/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in CA | $55,110 | -7.0% | $26.50/hr |
| Audio and Video Technician in CA | $64,620 | +9.1% | $31.07/hr |
| Automotive Service Technician in CA | $64,980 | +9.7% | $31.24/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a bookkeeper in California?
- In California, the salary range for a bookkeeper generally falls between $41,600 and $81,990 per year. This wide span highlights the impact of experience and other contributing factors on earning potential.
How does a bookkeeper's salary in California compare to the national average?
- A bookkeeper in California earns, on average, 17.1% more than their counterparts nationwide. The median salary in California is $59,230 annually, significantly above the national median.
What is the average hourly wage for a bookkeeper in California?
- The average hourly wage for a bookkeeper in California is around $28 per hour. This is derived from the median annual salary of $59,230, assuming a standard full-time work schedule.
Is the median bookkeeper salary in California high compared to other states?
- Yes, the median bookkeeper salary in California, at $59,230 per year, is notably higher than the national average, exceeding it by 17.1%. This positions California as a top-paying state for this profession.