California Compensation Benchmarks
Data updated · Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025, HUD FY 2027 Fair Market Rents, EPI 2026 Family Budget, 2026 tax tables · Methodology
California benchmarks 30 metropolitan economies against BLS OEWS wage percentiles, with an average cost-of-living index of 148.1 (48.1% above the national average), average HUD 1-bedroom rent of $1,899, and a single-adult living wage of $32.75/hour. State income tax follows Graduated Brackets with a top rate of 13.30%.
State Income Tax Policy & Labor Regulations
Workers in California retain higher purchasing power due to favorable cost of living and statutory exemption thresholds.
Major In-State Metropolitan Labor Markets
Compare BLS median wages, local municipal income taxes, and HUD rent benchmarks across cities.
Sector & Industry Compensation Highlights
Statewide median earnings and top-paying occupations across major career domains.
Comparative Occupation Salary Matrix
Statewide median wages, hourly equivalents, national premium deltas, and real purchasing power.
| Occupation Title & Category | State Median Salary | Hourly Rate | vs National Avg | CoL Adjusted Real Wage | Top In-State Metro | Explore |
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Adjacent & Peer State Comparisons
Benchmark regional tax structures, minimum wages, and median earnings in neighboring states.
State Labor Economics & Frequently Asked Questions
California Paycheck Calculator
Calculate exact take-home pay with California withholdings.
California Cost of Living Index
HUD Fair Market Rents & metropolitan living costs in California.
California salary directory: 2026 BLS OEWS median wages and employment by occupation, plus metro areas, HUD rents and living costs across the state. Official 2026 economic data for California compiled from Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS surveys, HUD Fair Market Rents, and statutory tax codes.