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Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary in California

Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:

How much do Computer and Information Research Scientists make in California?

Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

$159,100
Median Annual Salary
▲ +1.8% vs 2024
$168,580
Mean Salary
$159,100
Median Salary
$76.49
Hourly Rate
8,440 people work as Computer and Information Research Scientists in California

Computer and Information Research Scientists salary by percentile in California

BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).

Computer and Information Research Scientists salary in California — 2025 BLS percentilesHorizontal bars showing 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 90th percentile annual salaries for Computer and Information Research Scientists in California.10thBottom 10% earn less than $88,920$88,92025th25% earn less than $112,170$112,170MedianHalf earn more than $159,100$159,10075th75% earn less than $213,630$213,63090thTop 10% earn more than $275,320$275,320

Computer and Information Research Scientists in California earn a median salary of $159,100 per year ($13,258/month). This is 19.6% above the national average of $133,027. California ranks #6 out of 35 states for Computer and Information Research Scientists pay. Approximately 8,440 people work in this occupation across California. Salaries increased by 1.8% compared to 2024.

About This Job: Computer and Information Research Scientists

Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.

Top Skills

Critical Thinking
4.0
Complex Problem Solving
4.0
Judgment and Decision Making
4.0
Reading Comprehension
3.75
Active Listening
3.75

Key Knowledge Areas

Computers and Electronics
4.57
Mathematics
4.06
Engineering and Technology
3.95
English Language
3.89
Administration and Management
3.3
Typical Education: Doctoral Degree (28.4% of workers)

Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor

Salary Range: Computer and Information Research Scientists in California

Salaries for Computer and Information Research Scientists in California range from $88,920 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $275,320 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $112,170 and $213,630.

Median $159,100
P10: $88,920 P25: $112,170 P75: $213,630 P90: $275,320
10th
$88,920
25th
$112,170
Median
$159,100
75th
$213,630
90th
$275,320
Percentile Annual Salary Hourly Rate Monthly
10th Percentile (Entry Level) $88,920 $42.75 $7,410
25th Percentile $112,170 $53.93 $9,347
Median (50th) $159,100 $76.49 $13,258
75th Percentile $213,630 $102.71 $17,802
90th Percentile (Experienced) $275,320 $132.37 $22,943

Note: The mean (average) salary of $168,580 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.

📊 How Does This Compare?

#6
California ranks #6 of 35 states
$133,027
National avg. for Computer and Information Research Scientists
+19.6%
vs. national average
Above Average

What does this salary really buy? See Computer and Information Research Scientists salary in California adjusted for cost of living →

How much do you actually take home? See Computer and Information Research Scientists take-home pay in California after taxes →

Explore Computer and Information Research Scientists Data in California

Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary by State

Compare Computer and Information Research Scientists pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.

View all 50 states →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Computer and Information Research Scientists make in California?
The median annual salary for Computer and Information Research Scientists in California is $159,100 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $168,580.
What is the salary range for a Computer and Information Research Scientists in California?
Salaries for Computer and Information Research Scientists in California range from $88,920 at the 10th percentile to $275,320 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $112,170 and $213,630.
What is the starting salary for a Computer and Information Research Scientists in California?
Entry-level Computer and Information Research Scientists positions in California typically start around $88,920 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $112,170 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Computer and Information Research Scientists in California?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 8,440 people are employed as Computer and Information Research Scientists in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Computer and Information Research Scientists in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Computer and Information Research Scientists in California is approximately $76.49 per hour.

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Data Source & Methodology

Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.

Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.

Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS

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