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Computer Programmers Salary in California
Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Computer Programmers make in California?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
$116,760
Median Annual Salary
▲
+0.5% vs 2024
$119,900
Mean Salary
$116,760
Median Salary
$56.13
Hourly Rate
11,340 people work as Computer Programmers in California
Computer Programmers salary by percentile in California
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Computer Programmers in California earn a median salary of $116,760 per year ($9,730/month).
This is 21.6% above the national average of $96,002.
California ranks #7 out of 46 states for Computer Programmers pay.
Approximately 11,340 people work in this occupation across California.
Salaries increased by 0.5% compared to 2024.
About This Job: Computer Programmers
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
Top Skills
Programming
4.75
Active Listening
3.75
Critical Thinking
3.75
Complex Problem Solving
3.75
Quality Control Analysis
3.5
Key Knowledge Areas
Computers and Electronics
4.87
Mathematics
3.53
Engineering and Technology
3.47
English Language
3.41
Customer and Personal Service
3.3
Typical Education: Bachelor's Degree
(88.0% of workers)
Salaries for Computer Programmers in California range from $70,310 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $172,300 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $83,490 and $148,740.
How much do Computer Programmers make in California?
The median annual salary for Computer Programmers in California is $116,760 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $119,900.
What is the salary range for a Computer Programmers in California?
Salaries for Computer Programmers in California range from $70,310 at the 10th percentile to $172,300 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $83,490 and $148,740.
What is the starting salary for a Computer Programmers in California?
Entry-level Computer Programmers positions in California typically start around $70,310 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $83,490 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Computer Programmers in California?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 11,340 people are employed as Computer Programmers in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Computer Programmers in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Computer Programmers in California is approximately $56.13 per hour.
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.
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