Computer Programmer Salary in California
Based on 11K+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$116,760
$56.13/hr
vs National Average
$96,002
+21.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$70K – $172K
11K employed in California
The median Computer Programmer salary in California is $116,760 per year, which translates to approximately $56 per hour. This figure significantly outperforms the national average, standing at 21.6% higher. With a substantial 11,340 individuals employed in this field within the state, California offers a robust market for these professionals.
Several factors influence the Computer Programmer salary in California. Experience level plays a crucial role, with more senior programmers commanding higher compensation. Location within California, such as Silicon Valley versus other regions, can also impact pay due to cost of living and demand. Specific programming languages and specializations can also affect earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Computer Programmer in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $70,310 |
| 25th percentile | $83,490 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $116,760 |
| 75th percentile | $148,740 |
| 90th percentile | $172,300 |
Top-Paying Industries for Computer Programmer (U.S.)
Which industries pay Computer Programmers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Computer Programmers in California tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $129,150 | 450 |
| Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction | $123,520 | 170 |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $111,290 | 860 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $108,410 | 3K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $107,950 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Computer Programmer in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (California) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $116,760 |
| 2026 (projected) | $120,263 |
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 | $116,760 | $96,002 |
| 2026 (projected) | $120,263 | $98,882 |
Computer Programmer Salary by Experience Level in California
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $83,490 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $116,760 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $148,740 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $172,300 |
Computer Programmer Salary in Other States
Related Computer Programmer Salaries in California
How other high-demand occupations in California compare to Computer Programmer ($116,760 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Computer Programmer | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager in CA | $218,290 | +87.0% | $104.95/hr |
| Computer Hardware Engineer in CA | $185,180 | +58.6% | $89.03/hr |
| Data Analyst in CA | $180,500 | +54.6% | $86.78/hr |
| Software Developer in CA | $174,410 | +49.4% | $83.85/hr |
| Database Administrator in CA | $170,160 | +45.7% | $81.81/hr |
| Computer and Information Research Scientist in CA | $159,100 | +36.3% | $76.49/hr |
| Computer Network Architect in CA | $158,870 | +36.1% | $76.38/hr |
| Data Scientist in CA | $141,590 | +21.3% | $68.07/hr |
| Information Security Analyst in CA | $138,570 | +18.7% | $66.62/hr |
| Web and Digital Interface Designer in CA | $136,110 | +16.6% | $65.44/hr |
| Statistician in CA | $135,960 | +16.4% | $65.37/hr |
| Software Engineer in CA | $134,440 | +15.1% | $64.63/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Computer Programmer in California?
- The salary range for a Computer Programmer in California typically falls between $70,310 and $172,300 annually. This wide spectrum reflects differences in experience, specialization, and location across the state.
How does the average Computer Programmer salary in California compare to the national average?
- Computer Programmers in California earn considerably more than the national average, with their median salary being 21.6% higher. This means a Californian programmer earning the median of $116,760 is well above the national median.
What is the hourly rate for a Computer Programmer in California?
- Based on the median annual salary of $116,760, a Computer Programmer in California can expect to earn approximately $56 per hour. This hourly rate aligns with the high cost of living and demand for tech professionals in the state.
Is California a good state to work as a Computer Programmer in terms of salary?
- Yes, California offers a very competitive salary for Computer Programmers. The median salary of $116,760 per year is significantly higher than the national average, and the salary range extends up to $172,300 for experienced professionals.