Economist Salary in California
Based on 860+ workers in California
Median Annual Salary (CA)
$119,410
$57.409/hr
vs National Average
$111,296
+7.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$74K – $207K
860 employed in California
Economists in California earn a median salary of $119,410 per year, which is 7% above the national average. With approximately 860 economists currently employed in the state, California represents a significant hub for economic professionals. Salaries in this field range from $74,030 to $207,380 annually, reflecting considerable variation based on individual circumstances and career progression.
Several factors influence economist salary in California, including years of experience, educational credentials, and industry specialization. The state's high cost of living and robust economy contribute to the premium compensation compared to national figures. Economists working in specialized sectors such as technology, finance, or government policy typically command higher salaries, while those early in their careers may start toward the lower end of the salary range.
Salary Distribution — Economist in California
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $74,030 |
| 25th percentile | $91,320 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $119,410 |
| 75th percentile | $164,770 |
| 90th percentile | $207,380 |
Historical Salary Trend — Economist in California vs National
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $113,030 |
| 2023 | $105,950 |
| 2024 | $100,510 |
| 2025 | $119,410 |
| Year | California Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $113,030 | $96,369 |
| 2023 | $105,950 | $98,241 |
| 2024 | $100,510 | $102,371 |
| 2025 | $119,410 | $111,296 |
Economist Salary by Experience Level in California
Economist Salary in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do economists make in California?
- Economists in California earn a median salary of $119,410 per year, or about $57 per hour. This is 7.3% higher than the national average for economists.
What is the salary range for economists in California?
- The salary range for economists in California spans from $74,030 to $207,380 annually, reflecting significant variation based on experience, education, and employer type.
How many economists work in California?
- There are approximately 860 economists currently employed in California according to recent employment data.
Is California a good state for economist salaries compared to the national average?
- Yes, California offers above-average economist salaries at $119,410 median, which is 7.3% higher than the national average, making it an attractive location for this profession.