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Technical Writers Salary in California
Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Technical Writers make in California?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
$104,000
Median Annual Salary
▲
+3.5% vs 2024
$117,060
Mean Salary
$104,000
Median Salary
$50.00
Hourly Rate
5,280 people work as Technical Writers in California
Technical Writers salary by percentile in California
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Technical Writers in California earn a median salary of $104,000 per year ($8,666/month).
This is 21.0% above the national average of $85,937.
California ranks #5 out of 45 states for Technical Writers pay.
Approximately 5,280 people work in this occupation across California.
Salaries increased by 3.5% compared to 2024.
About This Job: Technical Writers
Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.
Top Skills
Writing
4.88
Reading Comprehension
4.12
Active Listening
3.75
Speaking
3.75
Critical Thinking
3.62
Key Knowledge Areas
English Language
4.81
Computers and Electronics
4.29
Administrative
3.76
Communications and Media
3.25
Administration and Management
3.24
Typical Education: Associate's Degree
(35.2% of workers)
Salaries for Technical Writers in California range from $69,630 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $175,510 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $84,250 and $141,280.
The median annual salary for Technical Writers in California is $104,000 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $117,060.
What is the salary range for a Technical Writers in California?
Salaries for Technical Writers in California range from $69,630 at the 10th percentile to $175,510 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $84,250 and $141,280.
What is the starting salary for a Technical Writers in California?
Entry-level Technical Writers positions in California typically start around $69,630 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $84,250 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Technical Writers in California?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 5,280 people are employed as Technical Writers in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Technical Writers in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Technical Writers in California is approximately $50.00 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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